Who will win title? The big prediction special

As the Premier League enters its final stretch, Manchester City and Arsenal are locked in a tight battle, separated by just a narrow goal difference. Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal, who had led the table for 209 days, now trail after a 2-1 loss to City on Sunday. A 1-0 win over Burnley on Wednesday further tightened the race, with both sides still in contention for the championship.

Guardiola’s squad poised for final push

“The handbrake is about to come off,” says Shamoon Hafez, BBC’s Manchester City reporter. “With the title on the line, both teams will be free-scoring in the final five games of the campaign. They won’t have flawless records—there will be a draw apiece—and results will determine whether they finish with the same goal difference of +46. Although City’s schedule is more challenging on paper, their expertise in clinching tight matches will be pivotal.”

Hafez highlights City’s potential to secure a second domestic treble, suggesting a last-minute goal from January signing Semenyako could tip the balance. The reporter envisions Arsenal leading the charge against Crystal Palace on the final day, but City’s late equalizer might secure the trophy by goal count.

Arteta’s Arsenal still in the mix

“Even though Arsenal have lost the momentum in the title race and won just one of their past six games in all competitions, I still see them being champions at the end of the season,” claims Alex Howell, BBC’s Arsenal reporter. “City’s tougher run of fixtures means they could drop points, and Arteta’s side might win four of their five remaining league games. The Gunners showed resilience last Sunday, with Eze and Odegaard offering fresh attacking options. Goal difference could decide the outcome, and I believe these players will deliver crucial moments.”

Howell points to Arsenal’s attacking adaptability, noting their recent selection of Eberechi Eze and Martin Odegaard as signs of renewed focus. He argues that while City’s victory over Arsenal was significant, the Gunners remain competitive, especially if they avoid key setbacks.

Chris Sutton’s bold predictions

Former Celtic striker Chris Sutton, who famously secured a Premier League title in 1995, has analyzed all 380 league fixtures for BBC Sport. His insights suggest Arsenal might have an edge: “In reverse fixtures, Arsenal beat all five teams they still face, with an aggregate score of 8-1. I think they will do it again,” he said. “City’s away games against Everton and Bournemouth are tougher, and I expect them to drop points in one of those matches, likely at Everton.”

Sutton believes Arsenal’s form against Newcastle and West Ham could be decisive. While City’s recent win over the Gunners was a major blow, he argues the title race remains unpredictable, citing the team’s ability to adapt under pressure.