Arsenal have effectively turned the tables on Manchester City in the Premier League title race, according to former England international Jamie Redknapp. The Gunners’ 3-0 demolition of Fulham not only stretched their lead at the summit to six points but also gave them a four‑goal advantage on goal difference, with 67 goals scored compared with City’s 66.
Redknapp argued that the pressure now rests squarely on Pep Guardiola’s side, who must respond in their upcoming fixtures if they hope to keep the title within reach. City briefly reclaimed the top spot after beating Arsenal earlier in the month, yet the Gunners have bounced back with two successive victories. Their next challenge comes on Monday night when they travel to Everton for an Everton‑Arsenal clash on Sky Sports’ Monday Night Football.
Redknapp believes that while City possess the fire‑power to dismantle opponents, Arsenal’s recent form has forced the champions into a reactive position. “Anything can still happen, but I think Arsenal are favourites,” he told Sky Sports.
The win over Fulham also widened Arsenal’s goal‑difference lead to four, a margin that could prove decisive if the title is decided on that basis. Redknapp highlighted the remaining Premier League fixtures for Arsenal – home games against West Ham, Burnley and Crystal Palace – as prime opportunities to further consolidate their advantage. In contrast, City still have to face Everton, Brentford, Crystal Palace, Bournemouth and Aston Villa. Speaking about City’s upcoming match at Bournemouth, Redknapp noted that it will be Andoni Iraola’s final home game, meaning the hosts will be eager to put on a show.
He added that an away trip to Everton, managed by David Moyes, will be a tough test, and that Brentford are already pushing for a European place. “If it comes down to goal difference, I look at the games Arsenal have left as a big advantage. The Burnley game at home really stands out for me,” Redknapp said. “If both sides win all their remaining matches, Arsenal would need a big win – perhaps 3‑0 or 4‑0 – against Burnley to keep the goal‑difference gap in their favour.
That’s a huge opportunity.” Former Arsenal midfielder Paul Merson echoed the sentiment, warning that if the Gunners win their final three league games, City will be left scrambling. “If Arsenal win their next three Premier League matches, Manchester City will have to pull up trees,” Merson joked.
He pointed out that the FA Cup final against Chelsea on 16 May will add further strain to City’s schedule, and unless they secure emphatic victories over Everton and Brentford, they could find themselves perpetually playing catch‑up. Merson also suggested that a win over Aston Villa – a side already assured of a top‑five finish – could be the decisive goal‑difference battle for City.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta expressed delight with his side’s performance against Fulham, especially the first‑half display. When asked whether the victory sent a message to Manchester City, Arteta replied that the win was aimed at his own players. “It tells us and our dressing room that we keep the dream alive,” he said in the post‑match press conference. He praised the collective effort, noting the aggressive start, fluid attacking combinations and relentless high press that characterised the game.
"We got the crowd going and when this stadium creates that kind of atmosphere, it can be difficult for the opponent," Arteta added. Arteta also highlighted the balance of the squad, despite missing a few players due to injury or suspension.
"We started the game the way we wanted – very aggressive and lively. Great combinations, attacking movement, intense pressing," he explained.
"The boys delivered a great performance, showing authority, determination and composure. We brought a lot of energy to the stadium and they responded in a brilliant way – that was a big win." Looking ahead, Arsenal’s schedule offers both challenges and chances to extend their lead. West Ham at the Emirates will test their defensive solidity, while the home fixture against Burnley presents a chance to boost goal difference with a sizeable win.
The final league game against Crystal Palace will be a chance to close the season on a high note and cement their position at the top. For Manchester City, the road ahead is equally demanding.
After a trip to Everton, they face Brentford, a side fighting for a European berth, before returning to face Palace – the same opponent Arsenal will meet later. The Bournemouth game, with its emotional backdrop, could be a distraction, and the final match at Aston Villa will be crucial for any hopes of overturning Arsenal’s lead. In summary, the latest results have shifted the momentum in the title race.
Arsenal’s dominant win over Fulham and the resulting six‑point gap, coupled with a superior goal‑difference, have placed Manchester City under pressure to deliver results in every remaining fixture. As the season draws to a close, the battle for the Premier League crown appears poised to be decided not just by points but by the margins of victory in the remaining games.