Ljungberg played for Arsenal as a winger between 1998 and 2007, donning the shirt 216 times and scoring on 46 occasions.
By Kehinde Okeowo
Swedish pundit and tactician Freddie Ljungberg has insisted that reigning English Premier League (EPL) champions Arsenal are 100 percent favorites to retain their title, despite Manchester City’s strong showing in their recent league win over archrivals Manchester United.
The former attacking midfielder and winger made his views known on Monday, 14 September 2026, during an interview with Viaplay.
Arsenal are currently top of the league table with 12 points after four rounds of fixtures, sitting ahead of second-placed Manchester City on goal difference.
City drew level with the Gunners on points following a controversial 1–0 victory against Manchester United during the derby at Old Trafford.
During the encounter, Enzo Maresca’s side were reduced to 10 men after Phil Foden was shown a straight red card for kicking out at United captain Bruno Fernandes.
ALSO READ: Shearer berates ‘pathetic’ Fernandes for role in Foden red card during Manchester derby
Following the outcome of the derby, Man City’s resilience in winning away from home with ten men drew praise from supporters and pundits alike.
Despite this, however, Ljungberg believes Arsenal remain favourites to lift the Premier League trophy because Mikel Arteta provides them with a “massive advantage” over their title rivals.
When asked about the title race, the former Arsenal winger said: “I think Arsenal have a massive advantage of having the same manager for a long time and they know exactly how they want to play.
”It’s going to be tight and, as we’ve seen with Arsenal, they’re tight games, but they’re still winning them and that is so key.
”So 100 per cent, I think Arsenal are the favourites.”
