Man City's final Premier League points total predicted as Arsenal title race verdict clear

Opta Analyst has predicted the outcome of the Premier League title race between Manchester City and Arsenal

Ahead of tonight's home clash with Nottingham Forest, Manchester City's Premier League title chances have been assessed following their 1-0 win at Leeds United. Pep Guardiola's side sit five points behind leaders Arsenal but still have a game in hand against Crystal Palace.

That match was postponed due to City's involvement in the Carabao Cup final, where they will face Mikel Arteta's team on March 22 at Wembley. Meanwhile, Arsenal strengthened their position with a 2-1 win over Chelsea at the weekend.

Wednesday night's clash against Forest provides another opportunity to solidify their standing before this weekend's FA Cup fifth-round encounter against Newcastle United. Arsenal are also playing tonight at Brighton.

When it comes to the Premier League, Opta Analyst has their latest prediction for how they anticipate the final table to appear come May 24. Their model still predicts Arsenal as the title winners, finishing on 82 points (82.71).

City are forecast to finish second with 77 points (77.21), which would put them five points behind Arsenal if the projection is correct.

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Arsenal have also been given an 83.65 percent likelihood of lifting the Premier League trophy, making them the clear favourites.

As anticipated, they are also considered to have a 100 percent chance of qualifying for the Champions League next season with a 19 point gap to sixth place.

In contrast, City have merely a 16.29 per cent chance of catching Arsenal in the title race, according to the prediction. Meanwhile, Aston Villa, who dropped behind Manchester United following their 2-0 loss at Wolves, are predicted to finish third on 67 points (67.13).

With several pivotal weeks approaching, Guardiola predicted there will still be twists and turn. "Many things are going to happen," he said.

"I have a feeling that we are not going to win all our games. Arsenal, I don't know. But I have this feeling, because FA Cup, Champions League games, then comes trouble.

"Many, many games. Injuries will come. It will depend on our level, it needs to be better, better, better."

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