Last week, in week 33, Arsenal's one-two home defeat to Bournemouth at Emirates Stadium allowed Manchester City to capitalize, narrowing the gap to six points with a three-nil victory over Chelsea. Arsenal currently holds a six-point lead but has played one more match and is scheduled to visit Manchester City on 19/4.

"I said a few months ago that Arsenal must win the title from their current position, and I still believe that", Neville commented on The Gary Neville Podcast. "If they don't achieve it this year, the shock will be immense."

Erling Haaland scored the opening goal in Manchester City's one-one draw with Arsenal in week 5 of the Premier League at Emirates Stadium, London, England on 21/9. *Photo: Reuters*

The former English defender highlighted Arsenal's primary challenge: emotional imbalance. They face increasing skepticism and a prevailing belief that Manchester City will catch and surpass them. Neville advised the London club to maintain their fierce desire to win, but cautioned against falling into despair. "The defeat against Bournemouth wasn't because they lacked the will to win, but because they wanted it too much", Neville explained. "When you're pursuing your first title, the pressure becomes overwhelming, and it can make your legs feel heavy."

Neville emphasized that pressure extends beyond the players, encompassing external factors like expectations, the stadium atmosphere, and the club's 22-year title drought. "This is when things get really tough", he stressed. "They have to keep a cool head and maintain emotional balance. Nobody hands you a title. You can't win your first title by simply outdistancing your opponents. That's not reality; it's always a battle."

Neville then questioned if Arsenal could approach the Etihad match with a relaxed mindset, akin to "children playing football in a park", rather than being burdened by pressure. The 51-year-old former legend suggested Arsenal needs an iconic victory over Manchester City to truly break through. "They have to go there and win, no matter the method", he stated. "They might be under pressure for the entire first half, but then score the decisive goal late in the game. That's the type of victory that changes everything."

Arsenal's lack of championship experience represents another significant weakness. Apart from Gabriel Jesus, few players in the current squad have navigated a title race. Neville also noted that the Brazilian striker is not a distinct spiritual leader for the team.

Conversely, Neville believes Manchester City is in "perfect condition". Pep Guardiola's squad boasts numerous experienced stars, including Erling Haaland, Phil Foden, and Bernardo Silva, who are accustomed to championship pressure. Despite this, Neville maintains his belief that Arsenal can still win the title, acknowledging it won't be easy and they may even drop more points in the season's final stages. "I'm not saying this is 'now or never', but it feels like their time has come", the former Manchester United defender remarked. "After many years of coming close and then falling short, there has to be a moment when they finally break through. They will have to crawl over the finish line."

Hong Duy (according to Sky Sports)