According to Paul Merson, the Premier League title could be decided by goal difference, with Manchester City needing a convincing win over Burnley to take the top spot. Following City's 2-1 win over Arsenal, they are now just three points behind the Gunners with a game in hand.
City have a goal difference of +36, just one behind Arsenal's +37, but have scored more goals. Merson believes that City need more than a narrow victory to take control of the title race. Arsenal's performance at the Etihad was good, but they lost a crucial game. Merson states that Arsenal no longer have an advantage, but they will play two games before City's next match, giving them a chance to go six points clear again.
Arsenal must win their upcoming games against Newcastle and Fulham to put pressure back on City. City's last five games seem relatively easy, with two of them being against teams that may have their focus elsewhere.
Merson thinks that the title race will come down to City's margin of victory over Burnley. If City don't win by a significant margin, Arsenal will be back in the title race. The Premier League title could ultimately be decided by goal difference.