Michael Owen and Paul Scholes have both endorsed Liverpool as the primary challengers to Manchester City’s Premier League dominance, citing the Reds’ recent performance as a significant factor.
Manchester City, under the guidance of Pep Guardiola, are vying for a fifth consecutive league title after narrowly edging out Arsenal on the final day of last season. Liverpool finished third last season, trailing Arsenal by seven points and City by nine. This summer, Liverpool bolstered their squad with Federico Chiesa and welcomed new manager Arne Slot.
After three-games, Manchester City lead table with a-perfect record, but Liverpool are hot on their-heels, only behind on goal difference. Arsenal, who initially boasted a 100 percent record, saw their form dip following a 1-1 draw with Brighton. Exacerbated by Declan Rice’s red card.
Liverpool’s recent 3-0 victory over Manchester United at Old Trafford, coupled with the manner of their win, has caught the attention of both Owen and Scholes.
“If Pep Guardiola had to choose his biggest threat, it would be a close call between Arsenal and Liverpool,” Owen said on Premier League Productions. “At the start of the season, Guardiola might have considered Arsenal the bigger threat due to their consistency and additions. However, with Liverpool, there were uncertainties about how the team would adapt under the new manager and whether they would introduce a different style of play.”
Owen added that Liverpool’s minimal changes to their squad have worked in their favor. “Liverpool kept most of their key players, and the squad is largely intact and at peak performance. After just three games, it’s clear that Liverpool will be a formidable force. They dispatched United with ease, which suggests they are in strong contention.”
Paul Scholes echoed Owen’s sentiment, suggesting that Liverpool might surpass Arsenal as the main challengers to City. “Before the season began, I thought Arsenal would be the team to seriously challenge City for the title. However, after seeing Liverpool’s early performances, I believe they could edge out Arsenal and provide a-real challenge for the title.”
Liverpool’s recent triumph at Old Trafford, featuring goals from Luis Diaz and Mohamed Salah, was a crucial result. It provided a-stark contrast to last season’s corresponding fixture, where Liverpool’s draw allowed them to lose their top-spot in April.
Scholes remarked, “Liverpool were in contention for much of last season but faltered in the final games. If they can keep their squad fit and intact, they undoubtedly have capability to challenge Manchester City for the title.”
Both Owen and Scholes’ assessments reflect a growing belief that Liverpool could be City’s main rivals this season. Emphasizing their strong start and consistency as key factors in the title race.
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