Gary Neville has bluntly ruled Aston Villa out of the Premier League title race, insisting the contest is a “two-horse race” between Arsenal and Manchester City despite Unai Emery’s side sitting within touching distance of the top.
Manchester United legend Gary Neville has delivered a sobering verdict on Aston Villa’s Premier League title aspirations, dismissing the idea of a three-way fight for the crown.
Despite Unai Emery’s side sitting just three points off the top after a string of impressive results, Neville believes the race will ultimately narrow down to the established giants.
“I’m drawing a line beneath the top two,” Neville stated, making it clear that he views the battle for first place as an exclusive contest between Arsenal and Manchester City.
While Villa have enjoyed a remarkable run of seven consecutive league victories, including a recent win over Manchester United, Neville remains unconvinced that they possess the longevity to sustain a challenge through the spring.
He suggested that Arsenal are better positioned to maintain their form during the high-pressure months of April and May.
Discussing the threat posed by the reigning champions, Neville added: “Pep Guardiola and Erling Haaland are ‘very special’ and will ensure Arsenal face a significant challenge.”
The pundit further noted that even the current leaders, Arsenal, face potential pitfalls that could derail their campaign, specifically pointing to the importance of squad depth.
Neville highlighted that “an injury to Declan Rice could prove more problematic” for the Gunners in the second half of the season than any pressure from the chasing pack.
Despite the “stunning form” shown at Villa Park, the eight-time Premier League winner insists that the title remains a two-way street between the Emirates and the Etihad.