Gary Neville believes Arsenal have sent a clear Premier League title message to Liverpool after their dramatic comeback at Newcastle United.
The Gunners trailed late when Nick Woltemade fired the hosts ahead. But Mikel Merino struck in the 84th minute before Gabriel Magalhaes snatched a 96th-minute winner. The turnaround stunned St. James’ Park and lifted Arsenal back to second in the table.
The win cut Liverpool’s lead to just two points. It came less than 24 hours after the Reds slipped up at Crystal Palace, conceding a stoppage-time goal in a costly defeat.
Neville, speaking on his Sky Sports podcast, admitted Gunners’ response left him hugely impressed. He suggested Mikel Arteta’s men might now be the strongest side in the league.
“Mikel Arteta has got a brilliant squad,’ Neville said. “He’s got a brilliant squad, I think he’s got the best squad in the league and maybe the best team in the league and I say that quietly because Liverpool are excellent.
“There’s only two teams who can win this league – Liverpool and Arsenal – I don’t think anyone else can.”
He added: “So I think it’s a big moment. It’s only September and it’s ridiculous to be speaking like this as someone who experienced title races.
“But what you’ve got to do is send out some calling cards and some clear messages that you’re there in the title race and I think that’s what Arsenal have done today.
“A week ago the glass was half empty, now it’s more than half full. Liverpool lose, Arsenal win in stunning fashion.
“They deserve it, they were the better football team. [Arteta] made really good subs, he started with a strong team. That will give them huge confidence.
“You shouldn’t have swing weekends this early. But the Liverpool players sitting at home watching this will perhaps sink slightly.”
Neville’s verdict underlines the growing belief that the North London side and Merseyside giants are the only serious contenders this season. With the gap tightening, the title race is already shaping into a fierce battle.
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