Former Arsenal defender Ashley Cole believes the Premier League title is now firmly in the club’s hands, insisting it would take a dramatic collapse for Mikel Arteta’s side to miss out.
Arsenal currently hold a seven-point lead over Manchester City with eight matches remaining in the season. Although City still have a game in hand, the Gunners’ consistent results throughout the campaign have placed them in a strong position heading into the final stretch.
Speaking in an interview with Hayters, Cole said Arsenal’s performances so far suggest the title race is theirs to control.
Ashley Cole backs Arsenal to win the Premier League
Cole pointed to Arsenal’s ability to find results even when performances have not always been dominant.
“I think with the consistency Arsenal have shown this season, with only eight games left and seven points clear, it’s Arsenal’s to lose.” — Ashley Cole, via Hayters
The former England international highlighted how Arteta’s team have repeatedly discovered small margins that decide tight matches.
“They’re finding that extra two or five percent in games to find a way to win. It would have to be an absolute capitulation for Arsenal to lose the league.” — Ashley Cole
Having followed Arsenal closely this season, the team’s ability to grind out results has become a defining feature of their campaign.
Debate over Arsenal’s style under Mikel Arteta
Despite leading the league, Arsenal have faced criticism from some observers regarding their playing style. The team has often relied on physical dominance and set-piece efficiency rather than expansive attacking football.
Cole acknowledged the debate but emphasised that results remain the most important factor in a title race.
“I certainly have a way that I like to watch football and a style I want my team to play, but ultimately it’s about winning.”
Arteta began the season under pressure to end Arsenal’s long wait for a league title, with the club having last lifted the Premier League trophy more than two decades ago.
Cole believes the Spaniard has positioned the team exactly where they needed to be.
“They had to position themselves above Manchester City and Liverpool and they’ve done that so far. If Arsenal’s name is on the title at the end, he’s done his job.”
Arsenal’s Premier League position
| Title Race Snapshot | Arsenal |
|---|---|
| Points lead | +7 vs Manchester City |
| Matches remaining | 8 |
| City game in hand | Yes |
| Last title | 2004 |
source: Premier League data – 7 March 2026
However, it remains too early to draw firm conclusions with several important fixtures still to play.
Cole does not rule out multiple trophies
Cole also suggested Arsenal’s belief could extend beyond the Premier League title.
With the club still competing in domestic cup competitions, he believes success in one tournament could boost confidence across the squad.
“Why not? The players seem to have belief, the manager has belief, and they’re winning game after game.”
According to the former full-back, winning a first trophy could prove particularly important for a squad that includes several players yet to lift major honours.
Key Insights
- Ashley Cole believes Arsenal are now favourites to win the Premier League.
- The Gunners currently hold a seven-point lead over Manchester City.
- Only eight matches remain in the season.
- Cole says Arsenal’s consistency makes them difficult to catch.
- The former defender also believes multiple trophies remain possible.
What’s Next
Arsenal will enter the final eight matches of the season knowing that maintaining their current form could secure their first Premier League title in more than two decades. Manchester City remain the closest challengers and still have a game in hand, meaning the pressure will remain high throughout the run-in.
Upcoming fixtures could quickly shape the title race if either side drops points. Much will depend on how Arsenal handle the mental and physical demands of the closing weeks.
Can Arsenal hold their lead and secure the Premier League title this season?
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