Dominic Matteo believes the title-winning experience of Manchester City makes them favourites for the Premier League ahead of former club Liverpool and Arsenal.
The title picture is perfectly poised as we reach the run-in of the Premier League campaign, with just one point separating the top three teams in the closest conclusion to a season in a decade.
Arsenal top the table on goal difference from Liverpool as the Gunners look to win the Premier League for the first time since 2003/04, after the Reds dropped points in a draw at Manchester United last weekend.
Manchester City, who are aiming for a record-breaking fourth consecutive Premier League title, are a point behind in third as Pep Guardiola’s team look to continue their recent dominance of the division.
Matteo believes the experience of City could prove telling across the high pressure of the run-in and has backed Erling Haaland to silence his critics with a run of goals.
“You look at the games coming up and think Manchester City have maybe got the better run-in, but I look at all those games and there’s no easy run-in,” Matteo exclusively told The Football Faithful, at an event hosted by William Hill.
“Maybe the one thing City have is a little bit more experience in getting things over the line at this point. But look at Arsenal, how good do they look defensively? And they can score goals. I think the worry from a Liverpool point of view is they haven’t been putting those games to bed.
“The game at Manchester United, they should have been two or three up, the game put to bed and forgotten about. Then they make a mistake, obviously that costs them, Manchester United get a lift and grab a couple of goals. Liverpool are then looking to nick a goal to get a point.
“I think it’s an incredible run-in. I think City are slight favourites, with their experience. People will say Arsenal with the way they are playing but I’d make City favourites, with that experience and the games coming up. But I think everyone’s got a chance. In my head, I want Liverpool to win it, but I think City’s experience in the run-in might just tell. But what a run-in we’re going to have.
“Every one will be watching every game, the pressure. I think it’s hard not to feel pressure in those moments. I think the pressure is building and building and City have that experience of getting it over the line. But, again, I can say that for certain!
“I do think Haaland will start scoring the goals. I know he’s been criticised, but how can you criticise someone like him? He’s missed a load of games and he’s still right up there as the top scorer. I think his criticism has been harsh at times and he will come good in the moments he needs to. That’s a real worry for the other teams.”
