The top three Premier League teams all dropped points in the same round; Arsenal’s draw actually widened their lead, while Manchester City and Aston Villa both lost.

Can you believe it? In the 22nd round of the Premier League, the top three title contenders all dropped points in the same matchweek, prompting fans to joke that the Premier League is giving away the title. Even more astonishing, Arsenal, just like in previous years, stumbled in their title challenge, drawing 0-0 with Nottingham Forest. Yet, this single point actually extended Arsenal’s lead because second-placed Manchester City and third-placed Aston Villa both lost their matches this round.

In this round of the Premier League, Manchester City played first in the Manchester derby. Guardiola’s arrogance led to a crushing defeat. Despite fielding a weakened defense, he insisted on playing a midfield of a lone defensive midfielder Rodri plus Foden and Bernardo Silva, which was dismantled by Carrick’s temporarily managed Manchester United. If it weren’t for Donnarumma’s multiple outstanding saves and the woodwork coming to City’s aid several times, this would have been a disaster. Haaland has been listless for seven consecutive games, and Manchester City lost 0-2 to United, marking four league games without a win. From being unbeatable in the latter half of past seasons, City is now faltering badly—Guardiola and Manchester City have clearly hit a bottleneck.

Arsenal played away against Nottingham Forest this round and, frankly, their attack was dreadful. The team’s weakness in front of goal persists, resulting in a 0-0 draw. Arsenal have now gone two league games without a win. Arteta’s side, just like in previous years, habitually falters in the title race, but since their rivals also slip up frequently, Arsenal’s position appears even stronger.

Aston Villa hosted Everton in this round of the Premier League, and the result was a surprise as Villa, who had won 11 consecutive home games, lost 0-1. This was a minor shock this round. Villa had a perfect chance to overtake Manchester City and move up to second place, closing the gap with Arsenal. However, with this defeat, the points difference between Villa and Arsenal has actually increased from six to seven.

In my opinion, Arsenal’s title challenge this season is more about being the best among weak rivals. It’s not that Arsenal are exceptionally strong, but their competitors have become weaker. Perhaps this season’s Premier League title will belong to Arsenal because Manchester City have declined, and Guardiola, who puts blind faith in Haaland, seems to have lost his shine.