Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand is backing both Manchester United and Arsenal to run Manchester City “close” for the Premier League title this season.

Speaking to TNT Sports, Ferdinand said that the two teams have bolstered their squads with good signings but he still feels that City will end up finishing top of the table:

“Manchester United and Arsenal, two challengers. If anyone’s going to get close to them [Man City], it’ll be those two. I still think there’s a difference between Manchester United and Manchester City: on the pitch and off the pitch. But I think Manchester United are going in the right direction. I think you can see how they have approached the transfer window, it’s been very decisive and forthright.”

“They have executed on three very good players who are going to improve the squad no doubt, potentially another one coming in after that, we’ll have to wait and see. And I think Arsenal have done the same. They have recruited superbly well in this window. Three very good players who are not only going to improve the squad but the starting XI. They’ll go close this season but as for City, I don’t think anyone is going to pip them to the title.”

It’s hard to argue with Ferdinand

The bookies certainly agree with the former United defender’s assessment. Sky Bet currently have City at 8/11 odds-on for the title, with evert every bookmaker in the same boat.

Arsenal are widely regarded as second favourites (9/2), but Liverpool (7/1) remain ahead of Manchester United (10/1). Considering Jurgen Klopp’s side have struggled to reinforce their squad this summer, in contrast to the Red Devils, those odds may change quickly when the season begins.

United still need to show they are the real deal

Despite finishing third last season, ten Hag’s men really struggled when playing away from home against the biggest teams. They lost heavily to Liverpool (7-0) and City (6-3) and they also suffered defeats versus Newcastle and Arsenal.

This is something that the club will need to address if they are to become genuine title contenders this campaign.