[ WATCH TV LIVE ]
Gael Clichy believes Manchester City winning the treble last season is a reason to back Arsenal for the Premier League title. While still expecting Pep Guardiola to retain his crown, the Frenchman warned his players about a potential lack of motivation success can bring.
City clinched a historic treble last year, a feat that had only been achieved once before in English football. The achievement ranks Guardiola’s side among the pantheon of all-time greats and he appears just as determined to deliver more success this time around.
A wave of silverware has swept over the Etihad since Sheikh Mansour changed the club’s fortunes forever in 2008. Should City win the league again this season, they will have won the title for an unprecedented fourth consecutive time.
Gunners fans would do anything to see their side lift just one Premier League trophy after coming agonisingly close in 2022-23. Former left-back Clichy, who Arsenal sold to City in 2011, has questioned whether too much success may sap the desire from Guardiola’s side.
“It's important to have a mix of experience and youth,” Clichy told Genting Casino. “There's an eagerness to win something at the club. I still think Man City will be the Champions again, but when you win the treble, it's hard to keep that determination, and that opens the door for Arsenal.”
READ MORE:Arsenal news and transfers LIVE: Bukayo Saka update, injury return hint, Manchester City boost
READ MORE:Mikel Arteta has perfect Bukayo Saka backup if Arsenal star injured for Man City clash
The Frenchman also hailed Arsenal for their new-found mentality under Arteta. Clichy noted how last weekend’s 4-0 annihilation of Bournemouth would have previously been viewed as an obstacle for the Gunners.
“Arsenal are a huge club with a big history,” he added. “Until last year, they hadn’t challenged for the title in some time, but now you can see progress. Mikel Arteta has been given time and funds for the process.
“Bournemouth away a few years ago would have been a really tough game. A 4-0, dominant win away from home is a big win. The young players Arsenal have are maturing quickly and I think it will be a very big season.”
