Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta makes Premier League 'favourites' claim amid Man City title race

Mikel Arteta believes the wider football fanbase want his Arsenal side to pip Manchester City to the Premier League title.

Gunners boss Arteta is locked in a race with former mentor Pep Guardiola. The North London side had been top of the table before a draw against Brentford and Wednesday's 3-1 defeat at home to City saw them drop into second.

Top spot can change hands twice more on Saturday afternoon, with Arsenal facing Aston Villa at lunchtime before City travel to Nottingham Forest - albeit the Gunners will retain their game in hand. And in what is set to be a thrilling race, Arteta believes his side are the fan favourites.

ALSO READ: City charged by FA over two incidents in Arsenal game

“That I agree with,” Arteta told PA when it was put to him that more people want to see Arsenal lift the title than City. “Because of what they see, people have a lot of sympathy for us, our players and the way we have done things.

“I don’t think we have ever been favourites, I don’t think that has changed. Man City have been the number one candidates from day one because they have been in that position for much of the last five years.

“Before the season, if you had to bet on someone, put some money or your house on somebody, I think a lot of people would have done something different [than choose Arsenal].”

READ NEXT

'I understand better' - Guardiola takes swipe at critics of his City tactics

City issue update on Gundogan contract situation

De Bruyne's honest opinion of Arteta after touchline clash

Guardiola outlines key Grealish change at Man City

'Even better' - ManCity's next generation sending impressive statement