Arsenal legend Patrick Vieira has given a mixed verdict on his former club’s title credentials after a disastrous 3-2 defeat to Manchester United at the Emirates.
With their lead at the top of the Premier League reduced to just four points, the Gunners collapsed in the closing stages after Matheus Cunha’s stunning goal for the visitors silenced the home crowd.
Speaking on Sky Sports, Vieira was clearly disappointed with the performance but refused to rate Mikel Arteta’s team just yet.
Patrick Vieira talks about Arsenal’s title predictions
Despite the gloom in north London, the ‘Invincibles’ captain insisted the title race was far from over.
He backed Arsenal’s recovery, although he acknowledged Manchester City remained an immediate threat, especially as the injury crisis eased.
He said: “We expected Arsenal to win against Man United, but they didn’t. City have had a difficult period (with injuries). Arsenal will win against Man United.”
“All the players will return from injury and I believe City will perform well by the end of the season. It’s still really open.”
When asked by Gary Neville who he thought would win the league, Vieira added:
“I was disappointed with the performance, but I think Arsenal are good enough. I believe they will go to Leeds and win the game there.”
“I think Arsenal have done enough to go all the way and win the title, but if they don’t beat Leeds there will be more pressure on them, especially if Man City win their next game. That could change things.”
Pressure mounts as old concerns about Arteta resurface
There is a palpable sense of unease around the Emirates.
Arsenal have now dropped points in three games in a row and the manner of their defeat against United only adds to the familiar concerns.
Martin Zvimendi’s fatal error and Mikel Merino’s failure to capitalize on the momentum after the equalizer raised new questions about the team’s mentality in crucial moments.
Such doubts are made even more clear by history. Arsenal have finished runners-up for three seasons in a row, but have often fallen short when the pressure is at its peak.
This added pressure will be on the minds of not only the players but also the coaches.
It remains to be seen whether they can withstand the pressure and come out victorious this season.
