Joleon Lescott described Manchester City’s win over Arsenal as “pivotal” and says the Blues’ experience of winning titles will ultimately see them home.
City went top of the table following their 3-1 win over the Gunners in midweek albeit have played a game more than their rivals. Arsenal have now picked up just one point in their last three league matches while City bounced back from a loss against Tottenham to record back-to-back wins.
Pep Guardiola’s side travel to the East Midlands to take on Nottingham Forest this weekend while Arsenal face a tricky test away at Aston Villa. Lescott believes City now have the advantage in the title race thanks to their latest win and due to their experience of past successes.
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He told LiveScore: “I fully believe Manchester City’s midweek win at Arsenal will be looked back on as the pivotal moment in this season’s title race.
“Less than a month ago, the Gunners had an eight-point lead at the top but that gap has evaporated in rapid fashion, with Wednesday night’s home loss to the champions the most crushing blow of all.
“From City’s perspective, they will have already had a firm belief that they could turn the title race around — but winning at the Emirates just reinforces that further.
“I know Arsenal have still played one game fewer but I’m not sure they will be able to recover from the mental impact of the last fortnight.” City are gunning for their fifth title in six seasons and Lescott believes City’s mentality will be key.
He continued: “When you’re used to winning titles, you keep your emotions in check. You are angry when you lose, but you don’t get flustered. On the other hand, you enjoy victories without getting carried away.
“The likes of Kevin De Bruyne, Ederson, Kyle Walker and Bernardo Silva have seen this all before and know how quickly a season can turn around. You can’t teach that kind of experience.”
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