Theo Walcott Names Arsenal’s Biggest Problem in Premier League Title Race

Theo Walcott warns Arsenal that Manchester City remain their biggest problem in the title race despite Mikel Arteta’s side leading the table

Former Arsenal winger Theo Walcott has identified what he believes is the single biggest problem standing between Arsenal and the Premier League title — Manchester City. Speaking on the It’s Called Soccer podcast, Walcott warned that Pep Guardiola’s side have the experience and mentality to hunt down leaders during the run-in.

Despite Arsenal sitting top of the table as of December 17, 2025, with a narrow two-point advantage, Walcott believes City’s history in title races makes them a far greater danger than any other challenger.

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Drawing on his long Arsenal career, Walcott made it clear that City’s ability to close gaps late in the season sets them apart.

“They are a big problem for me,” Walcott said. “City would worry me more because they’ve been there in this situation before. They’ve hunted Arsenal down, quite frankly, and in time they will grind them down and it will just happen.”

His comments come as City show signs of hitting top gear again, highlighted by a convincing 3-0 win over Crystal Palace, with Erling Haaland and Phil Foden leading the charge.

Arsenal’s recent results highlight fine margins

Mikel Arteta’s side have enjoyed a strong run, but recent performances have exposed small vulnerabilities. A nervy 2-1 victory over Wolves, settled by a late own goal, underlined how tight the margins are at the top.

While Arsenal continue to collect points, Walcott believes City’s relentless consistency could prove decisive if the Gunners suffer even a brief dip in form during the congested festive period.

Walcott also suggested the title race is shaping into a three-horse contest, with Aston Villa under Unai Emery emerging as genuine contenders.

Villa’s dramatic 3-2 comeback win over West Ham has kept them firmly in the hunt, leaving them just three points behind Arsenal.

Speaking on Match of the Day, Walcott faced the question of whether Villa could sustain a title challenge.

“I think so, I do,” he replied, adding that Villa “will be a problem” for both Arsenal and Manchester City.

He praised Emery’s side for recovering from a difficult start to the season and developing resilience at crucial moments.

This is not the first time Walcott has weighed in on Arsenal’s title credentials this season. Earlier in December, following a 1-1 draw with Chelsea, he suggested the Blues could also become awkward opponents, pointing to Arsenal’s past issue of drawing too many games during title pushes.

However, with Chelsea now further adrift, Walcott’s focus has shifted firmly to the more immediate threats posed by City and Villa.

Experience could decide the Premier League race

As a former academy product who made over 300 appearances for Arsenal, Walcott understands how unforgiving the Premier League can be. His message stays clear: experience matters, and City possess it in abundance.

With London derbies and high-stakes fixtures looming, Arteta enters a crucial period. Squad rotation, mentality, and concentration will all face tests as the title race intensifies.

Walcott believes only three teams — Arsenal, Manchester City, and Aston Villa — have what it takes to lift the trophy in May. For now, Arsenal remain in control, but the former winger’s warning rings unmistakable: the biggest problem already closes in.

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