As the 2025/26 Premier League season unfolds, Arsenal’s 1-0 victory over Manchester United on the opening weekend has given them an early edge, according to Paul Merson. Writing in his exclusive column for Sky Sports, the former Arsenal star praised the Gunners’ resilience at Old Trafford but cautioned that Manchester City’s dominant 4-0 rout of Wolverhampton Wanderers serves as a stark warning.
Merson’s analysis provides a timely perspective on the title race just four days into the campaign.
Arsenal’s Vital Triumph
Merson lauded Arsenal’s “vital” win against Manchester United, describing it as a significant statement of intent. The Gunners secured the victory with a set-piece goal from Riccardo Calafiori in the 12th minute, capitalizing on United’s defensive frailty.
Making the difference.
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) August 18, 2025
Riccardo Calafiori 🎯 pic.twitter.com/uUVALU7OOc
“Old Trafford is one of the toughest places to start the season, and Arsenal found a way to win,” Merson wrote. “It wasn’t pretty, but the three points are what matter, and their defense was rock solid.” He singled out Martin Odegaard for special praise, noting the captain’s return to form after a subpar 2024/25 season, with key moments of vision despite a couple of misjudgments.
Martin Odegaard has now won as many Premier League games as captain of Arsenal as Patrick Vieira (71) 🤝 pic.twitter.com/0uHOn0jmPR
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) August 18, 2025
The performance, while not flawless, positions Arsenal at the top of the early standings with three points, alongside Manchester City and Liverpool. Merson emphasized that this result gives Arsenal a psychological boost, especially as City and Liverpool face challenging trips to Old Trafford later in the season to match their tally.
Man City’s Warning Sign
Despite Arsenal’s success, Merson issued a sobering reminder of Manchester City’s prowess, following their 4-0 thrashing of Wolves. “City’s performance was a warning to everyone,” Merson cautioned. “They looked as good as ever, and if Haaland keeps scoring at that rate, they’ll be tough to stop.” He highlighted City’s clinical finishing and possession dominance (68% per Sky Sports stats) as evidence of their title credentials, suggesting Arsenal must elevate their game to compete.
Merson’s analysis aligns with City’s historical dominance, having won the Premier League in four of the last five seasons. The Wolves result, combined with their pre-season form, reinforces their status as favorites, with odds of 4/6 to retain the title according to Sky Bet.
34' ⚽️ Haaland
— Manchester City (@ManCity) August 16, 2025
37' ⚽️ Reijnders
61' ⚽️ Haaland
81' ⚽️ Cherki
Highlights from our opening day win at Wolves in the @premierleague ✨ pic.twitter.com/pMMaTcv1m1
