Alan Shearer Names Manchester City as Arsenal’s Biggest Title Threat Despite Recent Slip

Former England captain Alan Shearer believes Manchester City remain the biggest threat to Arsenal’s Premier League title ambitions, despite the champions’ recent 2-1 defeat to Newcastle United.

City’s loss came just a day before Arsenal demolished Tottenham 4-1, widening the gap to seven points between the two sides. The Gunners also sit six points ahead of Chelsea, who they face this weekend in a potentially decisive fixture.

Speaking on The Rest Is Football podcast, Shearer insisted that Pep Guardiola’s men should not be ruled out:
“I would still say City. We’ve seen City after Christmas before do it, they’re used to it and they can do it, we know that.”

Although Shearer admitted that City’s defensive solidity has dipped this season, he believes their experience and resilience cannot be underestimated:
“Because they’ve been there and they know what to do, they know what to expect and everything else, I would still say Manchester City.”

Opinion: Arsenal Look Strong, But the Real Test Is Coming

Arsenal may currently look unstoppable—winning convincingly, playing fearless football, and showing maturity that was missing in previous seasons. Fans are dreaming, pundits are impressed, and rivals are uneasy.

But Shearer’s caution carries weight. Manchester City are never truly out of a title race—not in November, not even in March. History has shown that City often shift into a frightening gear after Christmas, absorbing pressure like seasoned champions.

Arsenal’s biggest battle may not be scoring goals or dominating matches—it may be maintaining composure when form dips, injuries hit, or rivals apply pressure. Chelsea this weekend could be the first sign of how battle-ready they truly are.

Right now, the Premier League is shaping into a thrilling narrative—Arsenal leading boldly, Chelsea lurking, and City quietly waiting to pounce. One thing is certain: the title race is far from over, and drama is guaranteed.