Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink has revealed the only team he believes can challenge Liverpool’s dominance at the top of the Premier League.
Liverpool have been in sensational form this season, leading the league by six points and winning all six of their Champions League group games.
Under the guidance of Arne Slot, the Merseyside club has suffered just one defeat, creating a commanding lead. If they win their game in hand against Everton, their advantage could grow even further.
Arsenal, currently second in the league, are striving to end their title drought under Mikel Arteta. After finishing second to Manchester City in the past two seasons, the Gunners are determined to push Liverpool.
However, inconsistency has plagued them, with nine matches resulting in dropped points this season, including their recent draw with Brighton.
Nottingham Forest has been a surprising contender this season. Level on points with Arsenal, Forest has only lost four matches and is making a strong case for Champions League qualification.
Chelsea, once touted as Liverpool’s main rival, has seen their form dip dramatically. After a strong start under Enzo Maresca, they have collected just two points over the festive period and suffered defeats to Ipswich Town and Fulham, leaving them 10 points behind Liverpool.
Elsewhere, Newcastle United has surged to fifth place, thanks to a five-game winning streak. They now sit just one point ahead of defending champions Manchester City, who are struggling to replicate their dominance from recent seasons.
Despite Liverpool’s commanding position, Hasselbaink insists the title race isn’t over. Speaking to BetMGM, he said, “The race isn’t over yet. If Arsenal, and it’s only Arsenal in my view, can go on a winning streak, they might catch Liverpool.
Every team hits a rough patch, and when Liverpool does, Arsenal needs to capitalize. With the Champions League getting tougher, Liverpool may find it harder to maintain their dominance.”
Hasselbaink also emphasized the importance of Arsenal’s focus, saying, “Arsenal must treat every game like a must-win. They have no room for error now if they want to put pressure on Liverpool.”
The discussion around Arsenal’s attacking options continues, with Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus delivering inconsistent performances. However, Hasselbaink believes Arsenal doesn’t need to sign a new striker. “Kai Havertz has done well in the forward role. Despite His Potential in scoring Goals
If Arsenal tightens up their defense and Gabriel Jesus scores consistently, they’ll be fine. Set pieces have been crucial, but they need more clean sheets,” he added.
As the season enters its second half, the battle to catch Liverpool remains alive, with Arsenal leading the charge as the most likely contender.