Ex-Manchester City midfielder Yaya Toure believes Arsenal will “carry on” from where they left off before the break for the World Cup when the Premier League resumes on Boxing Day.

The Gunners are currently five points above the Citizens in the table after fourteen games but the knee injury sustained by Gabriel Jesus had prompted predictions that Mikel Arteta’s side may struggle to maintain their excellent form. Toure, however, believes that the London club will continue their push for the title:

“Arsenal have a great chance. I think Arsenal is going to carry on. Even maybe Jesus’ injury, at the moment. But let’s see different things as well. Arsenal was on top before the World Cup. I think maybe they could still carry on, even though Manchester City are really strong.”

Toure’s remarks are surprising, not only because he is a former City player, but also due to the fact he is currently an academy coach at Arsenal’s fiercest rivals Tottenham.

He has never been afraid to speak his mind, though, and while City supporters will respect his opinion, they will be hoping that he is proven wrong and the Gunners fall back towards the chasing pack in the coming weeks.