New Delhi, Oct 17:
Former Mumbai Indians wicketkeeper Aditya Tare has backed Arsenal to win consecutive Premier League titles, expressing confidence that the London club can build on its success under manager Mikel Arteta and establish a sustained period of dominance in English football.
Arsenal ended their 22-year wait for the Premier League title last season, with Arteta guiding the club to the championship. The Gunners also reached the Champions League final but finished runners-up to reigning European champions Paris Saint-Germain.
Despite their domestic success, Arsenal have faced early competition in the current Premier League campaign. The club slipped to second place following a surprising defeat to Brighton, with Manchester City moving to the top of the standings.
However, Tare believes the season remains open and Arsenal have the resources to recover their position and defend their crown. Speaking to JioStar, the former Indian cricketer said he expected another closely contested title race but backed Artetaâs side to finish on top.
Tare has supported Arsenal since childhood and recalled following the club during its successful 2003-04 campaign, when it won the Premier League without losing a single match. He said the long wait for another league title had tested the patience of supporters, making last seasonâs achievement particularly special.
The former wicketkeeper also recalled the friendly rivalry he shared with Manchester United and Manchester City supporters during his playing days with Mumbai Indians. He said Arsenalâs latest triumph had finally given their supporters the bragging rights in the dressing-room banter.
Tare described seeing the Premier League trophy in person during its tour of Mumbai as a memorable experience. For him, the opportunity to stand beside the trophy won by his favourite club carried special significance after more than two decades of waiting for another championship.
Drawing parallels with Mumbai Indiansâ success in the Indian Premier League, Tare said winning a major title could create the confidence and belief required to achieve further success. He believes Arsenal have the ingredients to turn their recent achievement into a sustained period of winning.
The clubâs progress under Arteta has been central to those expectations. Arsenal have developed into consistent challengers in domestic and European competitions, and their recent title success has strengthened the belief among supporters that the team can compete for major honours regularly.
Nevertheless, the current campaign is expected to present a significant challenge, with Manchester City and other rivals competing for the title. Arsenal will need to maintain consistency across a demanding schedule if they are to retain the championship.