In a twist that caught many football fans off guard, Liverpool superstar Mohamed Salah has suggested that his own team might not be the favourites to lift the Premier League this season.
Instead, he placed the spotlight on one of their long-standing rivals, putting the pressure squarely on Arsenal to take the crown.
Liverpool’s Dominance Last Season
Last term, Liverpool stormed to the title, finishing a comfortable 10 points ahead of Arsenal.
Salah played a starring role, finishing as the league’s top scorer with 29 goals and contributing an impressive 18 assists—his career-best in the Premier League.
His stellar form earned him the PFA Player of the Year award for the third time on Tuesday night, cementing his status as one of the league’s elite performers.
A Record-Breaking Summer Transfer Window
Despite Salah’s modesty, Liverpool bolstered their squad in a huge way over the summer, spending £321 million on new signings.
Among the headline-makers were Florian Wirtz, costing £116 million, and Hugo Ekitike, who joined for £79 million.
On paper, the Reds look stronger than ever, yet Salah believes another team has the edge.
Why Salah Backs Arsenal
When asked at the awards ceremony, Salah didn’t hesitate to highlight Arsenal as the team to beat this season.
The Gunners, who have finished second for the last three seasons, enjoyed a summer of key signings themselves, including the £63 million acquisition of forward Viktor Gyokeres.
Salah praised Arsenal’s continuity, noting that the squad’s stability over the past five years gives them a solid foundation to finally challenge for the title.
He said, “You have really good chance. I think you are the favourite now because you have players who have been together for five years. I can’t say I’ll wish you luck, hopefully we do it again.”
Bookmakers Still Back Liverpool
Despite Salah’s comments, Liverpool remain the favourites according to the bookmakers, with Arsenal considered the second choice, followed by Manchester City and Chelsea.
The Premier League season has already kicked off with victories for the top teams, including Man City’s dominant 4-0 win over Wolves.
Man City’s Bid to Bounce Back
Pep Guardiola’s squad will be eager to improve on last season’s disappointing campaign, where they finished 13 points behind Liverpool after having been champions for four consecutive seasons prior.
The Cityzens will hope this season marks a return to form.
Experts Agree With Salah
Salah isn’t alone in tipping Arsenal. Former Manchester United defender Gary Neville echoed the sentiment earlier this week, praising the Gunners’ consistency.
He highlighted that their ability to secure high points totals season after season makes them a reliable contender.
Neville also expressed optimism about Gyokeres’ impact, saying the forward will strengthen Arsenal’s attacking options significantly.
Season Ahead Promises Excitement
With Salah’s candid remarks, bookmakers’ odds, and expert predictions all setting the stage, the Premier League promises an electrifying season.
Will Liverpool defend their crown, or will Arsenal finally go one step further and claim the title? Only time will tell.
