As the Premier League reaches its midway point, football fans are eagerly anticipating a thrilling title race. The age-old cliché suggests that the team leading the table on December 25 has a good chance of lifting the Premier League trophy, but history has repeatedly shown that this is by no means a guarantee. Currently, Arsenal sits atop the table with 39 points, yet a pivotal clash with second-placed Liverpool on Saturday, December 23, looms large on the horizon. This match not only decides the immediate leader but also solidifies one of these teams as a top contender for the coveted title.

3. Arsenal

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta and Kai Havertz

In the third position, we find Arsenal, a team that has momentarily claimed the summit. However, their journey is far from smooth sailing, having experienced setbacks with defeats to both Aston Villa and Newcastle. The challenges are far from over, with a string of tough matches lying ahead. The recent acquisition of Declan Rice has been instrumental in their rise, adding steel to their midfield. As we assess the top contenders, Arsenal undeniably secures a spot in the top three, with their sights set on securing glory in the latter half of the season.

2. Liverpool

Dominik Szoboszlai, Mohamed Salah, Curtis Jones all celebrating in front of the Liverpool logo Carabao Cup

Moving on to the second spot, we encounter Liverpool, a team that has made significant moves in the transfer market to reinforce their squad. The additions of rising star Dominik Szoboszlai and the talented Alexis Mac Allister have added depth to their midfield. Mohamed Salah, in the form of his life, leads Liverpool's charge. The squad, brimming with talent, has shown glimpses of brilliance, but a goalless draw against Manchester United exposed potential vulnerabilities. If Liverpool can address these issues, they are poised to dominate the remainder of the season and snatch the title from the reigning champions.

1. Manchester City

Kevin De Bruyne and Erling Haaland happy together in front of the Manchester City logo

Securing the pole position is Manchester City, a team that endured a slow start but still holds the fourth position with 34 points. Erling Haaland's exceptional form has injected much-needed firepower into their attack. The return of Kevin De Bruyne from injury will further strengthen their midfield. However, the departure of Gundogan to Barcelona has left a void that needs to be addressed. Manchester City, known for their late-season dominance, must find their footing quickly after recent struggles to reaffirm their status as the dominant champions from the previous year.

+1 Tottenham

Son Heung Min in front of the Tottenham logo

Surprisingly, emerging as an additional title contender this year is Tottenham Hotspur. Despite losing their talismanic captain Harry Kane to Bayern Munich, Spurs have stitched together a remarkable season. Son Heung-min has stepped up to the plate, shining brightly in Kane's absence. With just one point behind Manchester City at 33, Tottenham poses a genuine threat in the title race. The departure of Kane has not derailed their progress, and under the guidance of their astute manager, they are ready to make a surprise swoop for the title.

As the Premier League unfolds, the top three contenders – Arsenal, Liverpool, and Manchester City – along with the unexpected Tottenham Hotspur, promise an exhilarating and unpredictable race for the prestigious trophy. The season's climax is approaching, and football enthusiasts are in for a treat as these teams battle it out for glory, striving to etch their names in Premier League history. With each passing week, the drama and excitement only intensify, setting the stage for a memorable title race in the world's most-watched football league.