Overview

• In a BILD interview, the Real Madrid forward named Liverpool as the leading favourite and said Manchester City are always in contention with Pep Guardiola and Erling Haaland.
• He called Arsenal’s long-established core a “crucial factor” that strengthens their title chances.
• Pressed for a single choice, he said, “Maybe Arsenal, maybe it will be their year,” while noting it would be easier to pick City or Liverpool.
• The comments arrive as Liverpool open with three wins, including a 1-0 defeat of Arsenal, after a summer spend widely reported at more than £400 million.
• Arsenal have finished runners-up in each of the past three seasons under Mikel Arteta, reinforcing their status as credible contenders.