Rooney and Shearer Back Arsenal to Seal Title Glory as City's Slip-Up Shifts Momentum

Arsenal have seized the Premier League initiative after Manchester City's stumble, with two of football's most respected voices now convinced the Gunners will finish the job.

The turning point came when City drew 3-3 at Everton on Monday night, surrendering their grip on the title race. Arsenal's recent wins against Newcastle United and Fulham have left them five points clear, though City retain a game in hand—a lifeline that may prove academic if Mikel Arteta's side maintain their current trajectory.

Only three matches separate Arsenal from their first league crown in over two decades: West Ham, Burnley, and Crystal Palace. Alan Shearer believes that trio represents the final hurdle before celebration begins.

"I think Arsenal will win all three games," Shearer declared on The Rest is Football. "When you think about it, Mikel Arteta and his Arsenal players now are five games away from being legends of that football club forever. They can win the Champions League and they can win the Premier League. Win three in the Premier League and they're done, win two in the Champion League and they're champions… five games away!"

Wayne Rooney has echoed that sentiment with conviction. Speaking on his BBC Sport podcast, the former Manchester United striker explained his reasoning: "I've been strong on this and think they win the league."

Rooney identified City's clash with Everton as the pivotal moment he'd predicted. "It was a tough game for Man City, I always thought it was a game they could slip up," he said. "I think Arsenal win all of their games and that's why I've been strong on this and think they win the league."

The contrast between the two title contenders has sharpened in recent weeks. While Arsenal have demonstrated consistency, City have shown they're capable of inconsistency when the pressure mounts—something Rooney believes will prove decisive.

"Arsenal have been consistent with their performances whereas Man City can be pretty up and down. When City are at their best they're one of the best teams in Europe," he noted. "But I think Arsenal win the title, I think they win every game. It's not over but I do think they win every game and I hope they do to be honest."

Beyond the title race itself, Rooney has praised Arteta's work and philosophy. "I really like Mikel Arteta, people have criticised Arsenal and the way they play but I like it and how they've gone about their business. I just think it's their year. I hope they win it for Arteta and the work he's put in over the past five years. It will be huge for him if they win the title."

His final assessment was unambiguous: "I just think Arsenal are efficient and professional and will win every game now."