Roberto De Zerbi has praised Arsenal as the top contender in the Premier League, surpassing Liverpool and Manchester City in the race for the title.
The battle for the Premier League crown is intense, with Liverpool leading the pack, followed closely by Arsenal and the reigning champions, Man City, all within a three-point margin.
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Liverpool, with a slight two-point lead, are seen as the probable champions as they aim to secure the trophy during Jurgen Klopp’s last season managing at Anfield.
The Reds have secured victories in 21 out of their 30 matches this season, with their only defeats coming at the hands of their North London adversaries, Arsenal and Tottenham.
Following a near miss last season against Man City, Arsenal is back in the title hunt, bolstered by the acquisition of Declan Rice and other key players during the summer, which has propelled Mikel Arteta’s squad to accumulate 68 points and achieve the league’s highest goal difference.
Manchester City, currently in third place, cannot be discounted for a historic fourth consecutive league title, especially with their ambition to clinch another treble under Pep Guardiola’s leadership.
In spite of acknowledging the strengths of Liverpool and Manchester City, De Zerbi has singled out Arsenal as England’s premier team as his Brighton squad gears up for their upcoming match against the Gunners.
When asked if he believes Arsenal are the best team in the Premier League, the Seagulls boss said: ‘Yes.
‘Liverpool are another great team with different characteristics and a different style. Man City are closer in style to Arsenal but I think when Arsenal play well, it’s very tough.
‘You can understand my words because Arsenal won 3-1 against Liverpool [in February], beat Man City at home and in the Champions League they are doing very well.’
Arsenal could ascend to the Premier League summit as they prepare to meet Brighton on the south coast, taking advantage of Liverpool’s inactivity until Sunday.
Earlier on the same day, Manchester City will be competing, with Guardiola’s team set to challenge Crystal Palace in south London.
Following these matches, Liverpool will have the opportunity to react to the outcomes of their title competitors when they face off against their beleaguered traditional adversaries, Manchester United, at Old Trafford on Sunday afternoon.
