Former Arsenal star, Gilberto Silva has rated the Gunners chances of claiming the Premier League title this season.
While he believes it is too soon for talk of Arsenal winning the title, the Brazilian feels they should not be taken for granted.
Mikel Arteta’s side are currently sitting top of the Premier League table, four points ahead of champions, Manchester City.
But Silva believes that Manchester City, a team he described as dangerous, could mount serious pressure to reclaim the top position after their defeat to Liverpool on Sunday.
Gilberto was part of the last Arsenal squad to lift the Premier League trophy with that unbeaten side, spending six years in north London under Arsene Wenger.
“At the moment, Arsenal are playing nice football. However, I think it is a bit early to say they are title challengers but they are in a good situation.
“I think it is important to compare the last few seasons at this stage, when they were in a very different situation. The table as it stands looks very nice and I hope they keep it that way.
“The next couple of weeks will be crucial for them, until the break and the World Cup,’ he said. ‘I think it is important to keep this good run, at least until they stop for the World Cup and to try to make sure they remain in first position.
“If they can keep the distance from Manchester City that will be fantastic. Because as we know, City are a very good team despite the fact they lost against another big team in Liverpool. They can be very dangerous for the remainder of the season.
“But it is important for Arsenal to continue at the top. Because when they come back for the second round of the competition it is not going to be easy. Maintaining a lead in this league is not easy,” he told Metro.
