Arsène Wenger has warned Arsenal not to become complacent at the top of the Premier League table and has refused to rule Liverpool out of the title race despite their crushing 3–0 defeat to Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium.
The loss — Liverpool’s fifth in six league games — leaves Arne Slot’s side languishing in eighth place, eight points behind leaders Arsenal and below newly promoted Sunderland and arch-rivals Manchester United. It marked another blow for the defending champions, whose hopes of retaining the title now appear to be fading fast.
But Wenger, speaking on beIN SPORTS ahead of the Etihad clash, believes it is still too early in the season to draw firm conclusions, urging perspective despite the Reds’ struggles.
Wenger: “Liverpool are not out of the title race”
While admitting it is “very unlikely” Liverpool can mount a comeback from their current position, Wenger refused to completely dismiss the possibility of a late surge, reminding fans that the Premier League season is far from over.
“It is the first very big game in the Premier League,” Wenger said. “Man City vs Liverpool is always a big game, but there’s also the fact that you would not want to be in the shoes of the loser.
“Liverpool have lost four games, they lose one more — it’s five. Can you still win the Premier League if you’ve lost five games by November? It’s very unlikely. It’s not a game you want to lose if you want to win the Premier League.” — Arsène Wenger, beIN SPORTS
However, the Frenchman added:
“They are not out of the title race because we are in November. They can still have a great season in Europe, but it’s hard to win the championship.” — Arsène Wenger
“Liverpool looked tired and low on energy”
Wenger, who won three Premier League titles during his 22-year reign at Arsenal, was critical of Liverpool’s performance in the heavy defeat, suggesting fatigue and low energy levels contributed to their downfall.
He pointed to the lack of intensity and commitment during key moments of the match, particularly around City’s second goal, as evidence that Slot’s players were struggling both physically and mentally.
“They looked like they were tired from the last game against Real Madrid,” Wenger observed. “They were low on energy and, even spirit-wise, the second goal is a good example of them lacking commitment.
“Man City were the much better team — technically in small spaces they were much more subtle — and Liverpool didn’t create a lot.” — Arsène Wenger
The loss further exposed Liverpool’s issues in attack and midfield cohesion, with City exploiting gaps and dominating possession. The reigning champions have now failed to score in back-to-back Premier League games for the first time under Slot, and questions continue to mount over their title defence.
Arsenal warned against complacency
While Wenger praised Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal for their impressive start to the season, he also urged his former club to stay grounded. The Gunners’ draw against Sunderland trimmed their lead over Manchester City to four points, and Wenger stressed that the coming months will test their resilience.
“Arsenal are in a strong position,” he said, “but the season is long, and Manchester City will not stop. They have experience and mental strength — that’s why Arsenal must remain consistent and focused.”
The Frenchman knows the challenge of leading a title race better than most. Under his stewardship, Arsenal famously went unbeaten during their 2003–04 “Invincibles” campaign but have not lifted the Premier League trophy since.
Wenger congratulates Guardiola on 1,000th game
Despite Liverpool’s woes, Wenger also took time to celebrate Pep Guardiola’s managerial milestone. Sunday’s victory marked the 1,000th match of Guardiola’s career, and Wenger was effusive in his praise for the Manchester City boss.
“He is one of the greatest,” Wenger said. “Just to make 1,000 games in this job is already exceptional, and he did it at the very, very top level. He has created his own style, and many managers now look at him as someone to follow. Congratulations to him and what he has achieved.” — Arsène Wenger
Our view: Wenger’s warning both wise and well-timed
FootballPlace believes Wenger’s comments strike the right tone, balancing realism with respect. “He’s seen enough title races to know momentum can shift quickly.” “Liverpool look finished now, but if Arsenal or City drop points over Christmas, things can change fast.”
William added: “Wenger’s warning about complacency is crucial. Arsenal’s young squad must not assume anything. City are relentless, and Liverpool — even struggling — are still dangerous.”
Key Insights
- Arsène Wenger says Liverpool are “not out” of the Premier League title race despite their 3–0 defeat to Man City.
- The Arsenal legend admits it’s “very unlikely” they can recover from five early losses.
- Wenger criticised Liverpool’s energy levels and commitment during the match.
- He praised Pep Guardiola for reaching his 1,000th game as a manager.
- Arsenal remain top but are urged to stay grounded amid City’s pursuit.
What’s Next for Arsenal and Liverpool?
Arsenal head into the international break four points clear at the summit, preparing for a crucial North London Derby against Tottenham on November 23. Liverpool, meanwhile, face Nottingham Forest in their next Premier League fixture — a must-win if they hope to salvage any lingering title ambitions.
As Wenger noted, the season is still young — but the margin for error is shrinking fast.
👉 Can Arsenal maintain their lead — or will Manchester City and Liverpool reignite the Premier League title race?
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