Former Super Eagles captain John Mikel Obi has backed Arsenal to lift the Premier League title this season, saying Mikel Arteta’s side now have the strongest squad in Europe and the mentality to go all the way.

The Gunners have set the pace early in the campaign, sitting four points clear at the top of the table. Manchester City and Liverpool, their closest challengers, trail by six and seven points respectively.

Mikel, who previously questioned Arsenal’s ability to handle pressure in the title race, admitted that his view has changed after watching their recent performances.

“Martinelli is coming off the bench, winning those games. Eze is coming off the bench. They are winning games,” the former Chelsea midfielder said on his podcast.

“Merino, as well, is injured. Havertz is injured. No Odegaard, no Gabriel Jesus. It’s frightening. Yeah, the squad that Arsenal has got right now… and Mikel Arteta knows that. He knows that. He knows that this is Arsenal’s title to lose.”

Newcastle United legend Alan Shearer also believes the North London club hold a major advantage in the title race.

Speaking on The Rest is Football podcast, Shearer highlighted Arsenal’s defensive solidity and their threat from set pieces as the two key areas that separate them from Manchester City and Liverpool.

“The huge advantage Arsenal have over Liverpool, Man City, and whoever else thinks they can challenge is the defence and the set-pieces,” Shearer said.

“They are in the driving seat because of their ability to just win a game even when they are not playing well. That is a result of the set-pieces and how good they are at the back, and that is why they have got such a clear lead at the top of the Premier League at the moment.”

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