Alan Shearer Rules Club Out of Premier League Title Race Despite Strong Run

Alan Shearer believes Aston Villa won’t win the Premier League despite their impressive form, arguing their momentum won’t last through the title race.

Premier League legend Alan Shearer has delivered a blunt title verdict on Aston Villa, stating that despite their spectacular turnaround this season, the club will not win the Premier League. Speaking on The Rest is Football podcast, Shearer admitted Villa deserve to be in the conversation but stressed he does not expect their form to last.

Shearer, the Premier League’s all-time top scorer, acknowledged Villa’s impressive performances but cautioned against assuming their run will continue. “I don’t think they will win it,” he said. “You have to talk about them because of the way they’re playing and the results they’re getting, but I don’t expect their brilliant run to continue.”

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His remarks come at a time when Villa sit just three points behind leaders Arsenal, marking a dramatic shift from their shaky start to the season.

Emery’s Aston Villa Have Transformed Their Season

Villa began the 2025–26 campaign in crisis, dropping as low as 18th after a poor run of results. However, their resurgence under Unai Emery has been remarkable. Their recent 2–1 victory over Arsenal at Villa Park sent shockwaves through the title race and showcased the tactical discipline that has defined their revival.

Moreover, Villa’s consistency—especially against top-half sides—has made them one of the league’s strongest performers. Even so, Shearer remains unconvinced that they possess the depth required to sustain a title push deep into the campaign.

Premier League Table Tightens Near the Top

As of December 9, 2025, the top three are separated by just three points:

Arsenal – 33 pts

Manchester City – 31 pts

Aston Villa – 30 pts

Crystal Palace, Chelsea, Manchester United and Everton are also within touching distance, making this one of the most competitive seasons in recent memory.

Meanwhile, defending champions Liverpool sit 10th—a position Shearer previously criticised when he warned they “won’t win anything” without a drastic turnaround.

Pundits Split on Villa’s Chances

Shearer’s stance reflects his usual realism, but opinions among pundits differ. Gary Lineker has praised the balance Emery has achieved, especially with the added demands of European football. Some analysts even believe Villa could finish in the top four if they maintain their current level.

However, the prevailing belief is that the title race still centres around Arsenal and Manchester City, with Villa viewed as dangerous outsiders rather than genuine favourites.

As the festive fixtures approach, Villa’s upcoming games against Manchester United and Liverpool will test the legitimacy of their challenge. Should they continue winning, they could silence doubters like Shearer and force a major rethink in the title conversation.

For now, Shearer’s verdict adds another storyline to a season already filled with twists, drama and unexpected contenders.

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