Gary Lineker has backed Arsenal to end Manchester City’s dominance next season by winning their first Premier League title in 20 years.
The Gunners emerged as Man City’s biggest rival for the title last season and Lineker expects a similar scenario to play out in 2023-24, though he believes Mikel Arteta’s side will go one better.
Arsenal have strengthened Arteta’s squad this summer by signing England midfielder Declan Rice, Netherlands defender Jurrien Timber and former Chelsea star Kai Havertz.
More Arsenal signings
Lineker would not be surprised to see Arsenal secure a couple more signings before the transfer deadline and believes the new players at the Emirates Stadium will take the team to the next level.
With Arsenal’s last title win coming in 2004, lifting the Premier League trophy next season would end a 20-year wait, though they will have to see off a Man City side who sealed a historic treble last season.
The likes of Manchester United, Liverpool and perhaps even big-spending Chelseawill attempt to rival Man City and Arsenal for the Premier League crown.
“I’m tipping Arsenal to win the title this season – maybe just to avoid being predictable but I do think they have had an impressive summer in the transfer market.
“Rather than demoralising them, going close and missing out last season will benefit Mikel Arteta’s side. Being in the title race has given them an experience that they didn’t previously have.
“A lot of players who move for big money struggle to cope with their price tag but I don’t think that’ll be the case with ex-West Ham skipper Declan Rice.
“He is an exceptional player – a holding midfielder but also far more than that. Rice is a real leader, who will run all day, a player who can break the lines and make things happen with the ball at his feet,” Match of the Day presenter Lineker told The Sun.
