Rio Ferdinand Predicts Two-Horse Race for 2025 Premier League Title

Former Manchester United captain Rio Ferdinand has delivered a bold prediction ahead of the 2025/26 Premier League season, claiming that only Liverpool and Manchester City have realistic chances to win the title. Speaking on his "Rio Ferdinand Presents" show, the football pundit dismissed Arsenal’s chances despite their strong showing last season under Mikel Arteta.

Liverpool, under new manager Arne Slot, stunned the league in his debut season by clinching the Premier League title with a dominant ten-point lead over second-place Arsenal. Their aggressive activity in the transfer market has further reinforced their ambitions, despite losing Trent Alexander-Arnold to Real Madrid.

The Reds have brought in top-tier talents including Jeremie Frimpong, Florian Wirtz, and Milos Kerkez.  

Read More: https://www.esnnews.com/post/gavi-denies-psg-transfer-rumors-commits-to-barcelona Ferdinand emphasized that both Liverpool and Manchester City have showcased strategic planning and squad depth that put them well ahead of the rest.

“It’s going to be a straight battle between Liverpool and Man City next season,” Ferdinand said. “Arsenal might surprise us for five or six months, but they won’t go the distance.”

Manchester City have also been active in the summer transfer window, signing promising players such as Rayan Cherki, Rayan Ait-Nouri, and Tijjani Reijnders to bolster their already star-studded lineup. Ferdinand particularly praised Liverpool's ability to secure in-demand targets, even beating out interest from Bayern Munich and Real Madrid.

“What people aren’t talking enough about is how Liverpool managed to land players that were also being chased by giants like City, Bayern, and Madrid,” he noted. “It shows clarity in their recruitment vision and a project that top players want to be part of.”

Read More: https://www.esnnews.com/post/cristian-chivu-inter-milan-new-coach-inzaghi-replacement In contrast, Arsenal's lack of urgency in the market has raised concerns.

The Gunners are still negotiating moves for key targets like Viktor Gyokeres and Benjamin Sesko, with no major signings confirmed. Their only arrivals so far appear to be 31-year-old Christian Nørgaard, backup goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga, and midfielder Martín Zubimendi — a list that may not be enough to keep pace in the title race.

As the new season approaches, Ferdinand’s remarks add fuel to the growing narrative that the 2025/26 Premier League campaign may once again come down to a fierce battle between the reigning champions Liverpool and perennial contenders Manchester City.