Thierry Henry has claimed that despite Arsenal FC’s 22-year wait for a Premier League title and their underdog status at the start of the season under Mikel Arteta, neutral fans are still reluctant to see them crowned champions.
Former Jamie Carragher backed the view, describing the situation as unusual. He noted that when a dominant side like Manchester City controls an era, neutrals typically rally behind challengers—but Arsenal seem to be an exception. He suggested that even rivals such as Manchester United and Liverpool FC fans may not want the Gunners to win.
Arsenal boosted their title hopes with a 2-0 victory over Everton FC at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday, extending their lead at the top to nine points. Later that day, Manchester City dropped points in a draw with West Ham United, further strengthening Arsenal’s position.
With just seven matches remaining, Arsenal are closing in on ending their long title drought. They are also set to face Manchester City in the EFL Cup final, offering a chance to secure their first silverware of the season.
However, speaking on Monday Night Football, Henry insisted Arsenal are not enjoying widespread support.
“Many people’s mindset is: Anyone can win, just don’t let Arsenal win,” Henry said.
“I wanted Liverpool to win before, because I wanted Carragher and Gerrard to win a championship. Whether I like Liverpool or not, people usually support the losers and support the teams that have no chance of winning the championship for many years. But many people just don’t want Arsenal to win the championship.”
Carragher echoed the sentiment, saying the situation defies expectations.
“I think it’s very strange, and the League Cup final may be the same. When there is a team like Manchester City that has dominated an era, most neutral fans will support the underdog and support the team that is fighting for the championship.”
“But when it comes to Arsenal, it feels different. Maybe many Manchester United and Liverpool fans – even if Manchester City is their arch-rival in the same city, even if Liverpool has been competing with Manchester City for the title in recent years – what they are thinking in their minds is: ‘I would rather Manchester City win the title.'”
“There is something about Arsenal, whether it’s their style of play, or Arteta’s movements on the sidelines, or perhaps the fan base, they will always be criticized and easily cause disputes.”
As the season intensifies, Arsenal have also faced criticism over their playing style, with some opponents accusing them of bending the rules to secure wins.
Fabian Hürzeler, manager of Brighton & Hove Albion, was outspoken after their recent defeat.
“Only one team was really playing football today,” Hürzeler said after the game, “They had too many delays.”
“In the end, it’s a matter of rules. If the Premier League and the referees allow everything to happen, then it’s really difficult. Arsenal has set its own rules. I feel now that no matter how they play, they are playing by their own rules.”
In contrast, David Moyes, who previously worked with Arteta at Everton FC, defended Arsenal’s approach.
“Arsenal has been extremely good this season,” Moyes said last week, “It’s been like that since the first game of the season. Put Paris Saint-Germain aside, they are probably the biggest favorite in the Champions League.”
“It’s strange that someone is criticizing them. Who are those who are criticizing them?”
“They have been in an excellent position all season, constantly winning games. To be honest, unless the referees strengthen the enforcement of set-pieces – which they should do – otherwise you have to admit that they are making full use of everything they can. They have a top lineup.”
