- In a passionate and rather surprising take, veteran manager and current Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has boldly tipped Arsenal to clinch the 2025/26 Premier League title, ahead of seasoned challengers Liverpool and Manchester City. The Italian tactician, revered for his tactical genius and decades of elite experience, expressed both admiration and caution in his prediction—believing Mikel Arteta’s men are well-positioned for glory if they address two crucial issues.
Speaking at a recent football summit, Ancelotti didn’t hold back his support for Arsenal’s project under Arteta, calling it one of the most promising rebuilds in English football. “They’re almost there,” he said. “But two things must be done immediately if they want to turn potential into silverware.”
While the 65-year-old stopped short of labeling City or Liverpool as weaker sides, he emphasized that the Gunners possess a balance of youthful energy and tactical maturity that, with refinement, could finally end their two-decade title drought.
So, what are the two things Arteta must do?
First, Ancelotti pointed at the lack of leadership in high-pressure games. Despite a strong season last year, Arsenal dropped points in matches that mattered most—especially against mid-table opponents and during the final stretch. “They need a cold head in the midfield,” he said, hinting at a possible experienced midfield general to guide the younger players during intense moments.
Second, he stressed the need for clinical finishing from a consistent No. 9. While players like Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz have had moments of brilliance, none has cemented a 25+ goal season. “You need a striker who doesn’t blink in front of goal. One who lives for goals,” Ancelotti said. Without that, he believes Arsenal may fall just short—again.
Ancelotti’s remarks have already gone viral among Arsenal fans online, with many expressing excitement over his endorsement while acknowledging the valid concerns. His comments also align with ongoing rumors linking Arsenal to a summer swoop for an elite forward and a veteran midfielder.
Last season saw Arsenal lead the table for most of the campaign before City’s relentless form snatched the title away late. Arteta, though commended for instilling identity and structure, came under scrutiny for lack of depth and tactical rigidity under pressure. Ancelotti seems to believe that this time, the Spanish coach has learned his lesson.
Interestingly, the Italian also revealed he’s “actually rooting for Arteta,” noting that the Arsenal manager’s growth has reminded him of his own evolution in the game. “He’s not just building a team; he’s building a philosophy,” Ancelotti added.
With Liverpool under transition after Klopp’s departure and City potentially fatigued from years of intense competition, the upcoming season is shaping up to be Arsenal’s best shot in years. The return of key players, smart recruitment, and tactical evolution could all align in Arteta’s favor—if he heeds the wise counsel of one of Europe’s greatest minds.
The Premier League remains unpredictable, but Ancelotti’s bold forecast has certainly given Gunners hope. Whether they rise to the top will depend on how quickly and decisively they act in the final weeks of the summer window.
For now, Arsenal fans will cling to this statement like a prophecy—one that could finally lift them from mockery to majesty.
