Merson warns Arsenal of title danger after Wolves collapse

• Arsenal criticised after surrendering two goal lead at Wolves
• Paul Merson questions mentality and leadership response
• Manchester City close gap in Premier League title race

Arsenal’s Premier League title credentials have been questioned after they surrendered a two–goal advantage in a damaging 2-2 draw at Wolves, prompting former midfielder Paul Merson to warn that accusations of mental fragility will intensify as the season reaches its decisive phase.

Mikel Arteta’s side appeared to be in full control at Molineux before conceding twice, allowing bottom placed Wolves to snatch a point that could prove costly in a title race that is tightening rapidly. Manchester City now trail Arsenal by just five points and hold a game in hand, placing significant pressure on the north London club.

The setback followed another away draw at Brentford, further stalling momentum at a time when Arsenal had been expected to accelerate. Only Crystal Palace and West Ham have dropped more points from winning positions in the Premier League in 2026, highlighting a worrying pattern that threatens to undermine their campaign.

Speaking on Sky Sports, Merson did not hide his concern.

“It is disappointing. You cannot play in second gear. When Wolves made it 2-2, suddenly there was urgency. That should be there all the time. Every game is a cup final now,” he said.

“It is going to be full on now. People will talk about bottle jobs, about melting under pressure. Drawing at Brentford and then throwing away a two goal lead against the team at the bottom of the league is damaging.”

Merson also admitted surprise at Arteta’s post match assessment, in which the Arsenal manager stated his team deserved to drop points.

“It was the first time I have really seen him not be majorly positive,” Merson added. “Usually he highlights what went well. Instead, he said they deserved the hit. That worried me. Even he is thinking now. There is something missing and I cannot quite put my finger on it.”

Arteta defended his stance, insisting honesty was necessary.

“When you do not perform at this level, you have to accept it,” he said. “We deserved to drop points because our second half was not good enough.”

Arsenal now face Tottenham in a critical north London derby on Sunday, a fixture that could shape the direction of their title challenge and either restore belief or deepen uncertainty.

With momentum shifting and pressure mounting, Arteta’s squad must respond swiftly if they are to maintain their advantage at the summit and resist a familiar late-season surge from Manchester City.

WRITTEN BY

Hailey

Hailey Russell is a football journalist and former Division 1 collegiate athlete in the United States, bringing a unique blend of elite playing experience and professional insight to her work. Currently competing at the professional level in Europe, Hailey combines first-hand knowledge of the modern game with sharp analysis across match reports, player development, and tactical breakdowns.

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