Mikel Arteta Issues New Premier League Title Race Warning as Arsenal Stay Ahead

Mikel Arteta insists the Premier League title race includes more than Arsenal, Man City and Villa as he warns rivals that multiple clubs remain serious contenders.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has made a fresh claim about the Premier League title race, stressing that the battle for top spot involves several clubs. The Gunners still lead Manchester City and Aston Villa, yet the Arsenal boss refuses to narrow the field as the 2025–26 season intensifies.

Arsenal’s momentum stalled after a dramatic injury-time defeat at Aston Villa last weekend. Emi Buendia struck late to seal a 2-1 win, ending Arsenal’s 18-match unbeaten league run. It was only their second loss of the campaign but enough to trim their lead at the top.

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Manchester City’s commanding 3-0 win over Sunderland pushed them within two points of the Gunners, while Villa’s excellent form keeps them close behind.

Unai Emery’s side have won nine of their last 10 matches, lifting them into third place and keeping them firmly in the title picture.

Arteta Stresses a Multi-Team Title Fight

Speaking ahead of Arsenal’s next match, Arteta insisted that the Premier League title race remains wide open.
“There are a lot of teams involved when you look at the table,” he said. “With Manchester City, you expect their experience and quality. But other teams are also performing at a high level.”

Arteta highlighted the need for internal focus:
“The focus has to be on what we have to do. The only thing we can control is increasing our chances of winning the next match by preparing in the best possible way.”

The Arsenal manager has repeatedly warned against complacency and continues to underline the threat Aston Villa pose this season.

Current Premier League standings table (as of Dec 12, 2025):

Arsenal remain ahead, but the narrow margins strengthen Arteta’s message that the chase includes more than just the usual contenders.

Experts Predict a Narrow Race

Former Aston Villa striker Emile Heskey doubts Villa can sustain their charge.
“I don’t think Aston Villa will stay the course. I’d say Arsenal and Man City are in the race,” he explained, leaning towards City due to their experience in winning titles.

Heskey also pointed to Arsenal’s late-season struggles in recent years, warning they must stay consistent during the busiest period of the calendar.

The festive fixtures will play a defining role. Arteta’s composed approach signals his awareness of the challenge ahead, with the Premier League title race shaping up as one of the most unpredictable in years.

Arsenal face several crucial games that will test their depth, belief and resilience as City and Villa continue to apply pressure from behind.

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