Arsenal Title Race: Lineker Backs Gunners After City Defeat

Arsenal title race hopes remain very much alive, according to Gary Lineker, who has dismissed claims that Mikel Arteta’s side have “choked” following their dramatic 2-1 defeat to Manchester City. The narrow loss at the Etihad Stadium, with Erling Haaland netting the decisive goal, has intensified the Premier League run-in, but Lineker insists it is far too soon to write Arsenal off.

Arsenal Title Race: Lineker Rejects ‘Choking’ Claims

Lineker, speaking on The Rest is Football podcast, was quick to defend Arsenal’s resolve after their spirited performance in Manchester. “It’s not impossible that the Premier League title will be decided on goal difference, and it’s incredibly close,” he said. “For neutrals, it’s exactly what you want—a title race that could go down to the wire. I feel for Arsenal; they’re under immense pressure, but they’re still fighting on two major fronts and can absolutely still win the title.”

Despite the setback, Arsenal remain at the top of the table, though City now trail by three points with a crucial game in hand. The Gunners are also preparing for a Champions League semi-final against Atletico Madrid, keeping their ambitions for silverware very much intact.

Determined Arsenal Impress Despite Setback

Lineker was particularly impressed by the character Arsenal showed, refusing to label their latest result as a collapse. “A lot of people are quick to say, ‘Arsenal have choked.’ But I saw something different at the Etihad—resilience, grit, and a willingness to take the fight to City. Even though it didn’t go their way, the match could easily have turned out differently,” he added. “This Arsenal squad has grown, and the season can still be memorable for them.”

Shearer Points to Bournemouth Defeat as Turning Point

While Lineker looks on the bright side, Alan Shearer offered a more critical analysis. The former Newcastle United striker argued that Arsenal’s slip-up came a week earlier with a shock 2-1 loss to Bournemouth—a performance he felt lacked the intensity and attacking intent needed for a title charge. “Where was this Arsenal against Bournemouth? The energy, the drive, the attack? That’s the result that might haunt them, not the City game,” Shearer reflected. “Against City, they played well and created chances. It was a brilliant match, and Arsenal had moments, like Kai Havertz’s late effort. But now, you have to make City favourites.”

What’s Next in the Arsenal Title Race?

The title race intensity is set to continue. Manchester City can leapfrog Arsenal into the top spot if they defeat Burnley by two goals on Wednesday. Arsenal’s next challenge is a crucial home fixture against Newcastle United, where they will look to regain momentum and keep the pressure on City.

Shearer, however, predicts more twists before the trophy is decided. “Based on recent performances, City have the edge, but I don’t think either side will win every remaining game,” he said. “There are bound to be more surprises before the final whistle of the season.”

Arsenal’s Double Ambitions Still Alive

For Arsenal, the chance to claim both domestic and European honours remains. The Champions League semi-final against Atletico Madrid offers another path to glory, as Arteta’s side aim to cap their progress with silverware. With injuries mounting and pressure rising, Arsenal’s next matches will be crucial in defining their campaign.

Opinion: Arsenal’s Mentality Key to Premier League Title Race

Arsenal title race hopes are not extinguished by a single defeat, especially given the resilience and determination the team showed against Manchester City. While the pressure is immense and the margins razor-thin, the Gunners have grown under Arteta, learning from past stumbles. Their remaining fixtures and European aspirations ensure there is everything to play for, and dismissing them now would be a mistake. For more news and updates on the evolving Premier League story, visit for more news.