Liverpool have been exceptional this season, dominating not only in England but also in Europe. They hold a six-point lead over their nearest rivals in the league and have won all six of their Champions League group matches. ..Continue Reading
Arne Slot’s side has only lost once this season, creating a comfortable lead at the top of the table, which could widen further if they win their game in hand against Everton.
Arsenal currently sit second in the Premier League, aiming to secure the title under Mikel Arteta after being edged out by Manchester City in the past two seasons.
However, the Gunners have not been as formidable as last season, dropping points in nine of their 20 league games, including a recent draw with Brighton.
Nottingham Forest are level on points with Arsenal as we enter the second half of the season, emerging as surprising contenders for a Champions League spot with only four losses.
Chelsea appeared to be Liverpool’s closest competitors last month, showing strong form in the first half of the campaign under new manager Enzo Maresca.
However, they managed just two points over the festive period and suffered unexpected losses to Ipswich Town and Fulham, falling 10 points behind Liverpool.
Newcastle United has climbed to fifth place after winning five consecutive matches, sitting one point above defending champions Manchester City, who seem set to lose their title hold for the first time since 2020.
Liverpool were the last team to dethrone Manchester City, and they seem on course for another Premier League title. Nonetheless, Hasselbaink maintains that the title race is ‘not over yet.’
Premier League table
Liverpool – 46
Arsenal – 40
Nottingham Forest – 40
Chelsea – 36
Newcastle United – 35
Manchester City – 34
‘I don’t think the title race is over yet,’ the former Premier League striker and England coach told BetMGM.
‘Yes it’s going to be hard [to catch Liverpool] but if Arsenal, and it’s only Arsenal in my eyes, can go on a run then you never know.
‘Liverpool will go through a sticky patch, it always happens. It’s then a case of how close can Arsenal get to them?
‘When the Champions League gets bigger and more competitive, it’s going to be harder for Liverpool to maintain things.
‘So, yes, I do think there is still some movement although Liverpool are very much in the driving seat with that game in hand.
‘Arsenal have no room to draw or lose matches now. Their mindset just has to be three points – almost business like – and that’s the only way they will put pressure on Liverpool.’
Arsenal’s dip has renewed the debate over Arteta’s options in attack, with the likes of Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus blowing hot and cold this campaign.
But Hasselbaink added: ‘I don’t think Arsenal need a new striker. Kai Havertz has been playing that position really well and if they can get back to keeping clean sheets, they’ll be fine.
‘Yes, they are a little bit too dependent on their set pieces at the moment, but if Gabriel Jesus can keep scoring regularly I think they’ve got enough in terms of a goal threat.’
