Michael Owen title race prediction coming true as Man City slip further from Arsenal and Chelsea

Michael Owen must be feeling pretty smug right now as people finally pay attention to his 'outlandish' pre-season prediction for Manchester City.

Champions of the past four seasons, 's side were expected to go again and challenge for the coveted trophy again this year.

What has transpired is an entirely different picture, with 's latest defeat to Aston Villa a calamitous one that also makes ex-Liverpool forward seem like a master of the psychic arts.

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Before the season began in August, he predicted the Gunners to win the Premier League with Liverpool trailing closest and Villa behind them.

He then placed Man City fourth to prompt widespread denial, at the time stating: "Manchester City will struggle to make top 4 this season."

The relentless nature of Guardiola's team in recent years made such a suggestion seem wild, but goals from Jhon Duran and Morgan Rogers at Villa Park this lunchtime have left them sixth with 27 points - two points shy of what is currently required to make the Champions League qualification spots - by Christmas.

Naturally, Owen's quotes have resurfaced to which he responded on : "Glad you noticed," followed by the thumbs up emoji.

So, in a season before which many presumed Man City would dominate again, one win in their past 12 outings has severely threatened to derail their chances of even making Europe's elite competition next season.

It means there is a title to be won, with entering that battle alongside Arsenal and Liverpool it seems.

Liverpool have control at the moment, earning 36 points to date. 's team - currently with 34 - have the opportunity to jump ahead by beating Everton before Arne Slot's side face Tottenham on Sunday.

Regardless of those results, the Merseyside team will have a game in hand on the rest of their rivals.

's Gunners then have some ground to make up, having played the same amount of matches as Chelsea with 30 points taken so far.