Arsene Wenger backs Arsenal to go all the way in the title race

Former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has backed the Gunners to go all the way in the title race following their impressive 4-2 win over Aston Villa.

Mikel Arteta’s side had failed to win any of their previous four games, including losing twice to reigning champions and title contenders Manchester City.

The second defeat to Pep Guardiola’s side came in the league with the Cityzens running out 3-1 winners to leapfrog the Gunners into first place. 

However, Arsenal finally ended their winless streak after overcoming a dogged Villa side coached by former Gunners boss Unai Emery.

The victory, coupled with City faltering to a 1-1 draw against Nottingham Forest, saw the Gunners reclaim their place at the summit of the Premier League, two points above Guardiola’s side with a game in hand.

Wenger was buzzing after watching his former side beat Villa and backed the Gunners to go all the way in the race, insisting it is an opportunity they cannot miss.

“It was a good feeling to see what it is now and the happy crowd – the team is doing well,” Wenger said (via Foot Mercato). 

“I like what I saw, and I liked what I felt in the dressing room. The team spirit is great, the humility, the hunger of the young players is incredible.

“They are hungry. They’re pretty good – there’s always a period where you haven’t won, you have to deal with it. Now is an opportunity you can miss. 

“The usual Premier League threats are all out of the running. The only threat is City, and even City aren’t as dominant as they were last year or two years ago.”

Arsenal are chasing their first Premier League title since Wenger himself guided the Gunners to glory in 2003, and there is a good feeling they could clinch the coveted trophy ahead of City.

Wenger insists the Gunners should focus on their football as the opportunity they have now may not present itself again.

“Since the start of the season, City have been more vulnerable defensively than they have been in previous years,” Wenger added.

“I feel like you win it when you can and don’t care about anything else, you let other people do the talking, and you take the title. 

“They won’t be as favourable as today, so let’s not miss this opportunity. Arsenal have 51 points, which is remarkable after 22 games.”

Arsenal’s next fixture sees them take a trip to face Leicester City at the King Power Stadium, where they will be keen to consolidate their spot at the top of the table.