CORNERFLICK
The red half of London are emerging as the leading contenders for the Premier League title.
Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal have made an emphatic start to the 2026-27 season, producing clear signs that they could be the team to beat in this year’s Premier League title race.
A 2-0 victory over Sunderland at the Stadium of Light secured a fourth consecutive league win for the Gunners and left them sitting alone at the top of the table with a perfect 12 points. Arsenal have scored eight goals and conceded just once so far.
It is only the fourth time in Premier League history that Arsenal have won their opening four matches of a season. They previously achieved the feat in 2003-04, when the Invincibles went on to lift the title, in 2004-05, when they finished runners-up, and again in 2022-23, another campaign that ended with a second-place finish. Attention now turns to whether this season can produce another title-winning run.
**A Perfect Start ** The overall numbers are even more impressive. Arsenal have played six matches in all competitions this season and won every one of them, scoring 12 goals while conceding just once.
Once again, defensive solidity has become the foundation of Arteta’s success.
Against Sunderland, David Raya played a decisive role by saving Enzo Le Fée’s penalty. Just two minutes later, Bruno Guimarães silenced the home crowd with a superb strike into the corner, scoring his first goal for Arsenal. Bukayo Saka then converted a penalty in stoppage time to seal the victory.
It was a performance that combined defensive resilience, quick reactions and individual quality — all qualities Arteta has repeatedly demanded from his side.
**Arsenal Are Showing a Champion’s Mentality ** Despite the impressive run, Arteta has repeatedly insisted that his team can still reach another level.
Their response after falling behind early against Chelsea was another indication of the growing character within the squad. Captain Martin Ødegaard, Kai Havertz and Saka remain central to Arsenal’s attacking threat, while a defence led by Gabriel continues to give opponents very little room to operate.
The arrival of players such as Guimarães has also added greater quality and depth to Arsenal’s midfield, giving Arteta more options over the course of a demanding season.
**The Numbers Back Arsenal’s Title Credentials ** Statistically, Arsenal boast the best goal difference and the strongest defensive record in the Premier League. They have conceded only once in four matches and kept three clean sheets.
Those numbers have already created a noticeable gap between Arsenal and several of their main rivals. Manchester City sit second with nine points and a game in hand, but Arsenal’s relentless winning run is putting increasing pressure on every other title contender.
History shows that a flying start does not necessarily guarantee a Premier League title. This Arsenal side, however, appear better equipped than ever to sustain a challenge.
With the experience of last season’s title triumph, Arteta’s tactical consistency and greater squad depth, expectations have inevitably risen. Arsenal are not simply winning matches — they are controlling games, creating high-quality chances and managing decisive moments, such as Raya’s penalty save.
Those are the qualities required to survive a long and demanding Premier League campaign. On the evidence of their opening weeks, Arsenal are already looking every inch like the team to beat.