Man City have already 'banked' psychological advantage over Arsenal in title race

Manchester City have a significant psychological edge over Arsenal in the Premier League title race, according to sports psychologist Dr Paul McCarthy.

The Citizens moved into pole position to retain their crown last weekend as both the Gunners and Liverpool faltered. Arsenal retook top spot with a 2-0 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday, but with Pep Guardiola's side in FA Cup action they now have a game in hand on the Gunners.

Speaking to MEN Sport, Dr McCarthy, a senior lecturer in applied sport psychology, explained how City's experience of perseverance could be a key factor in the remainder of this title race. He said: "Those happen [feeling of accepting the title had gone] because Man City are used to winning. On any given chance, they'll take it. Arsenal are trying to develop that momentum but it isn't as secure as it is at Man City.

"What's good for Man City is that when their backs are against the wall, they'll probably figure a way out. Whereas for other performers, they don't have the same memory bank to encourage them to gather the sense of unity and collective ethnicity [belief in our own ability], it's not there to the same extent," reports the Manchester Evening News.

"That doesn't mean that they [Arsenal] can't succeed but it is easier for the people who have recent memories to lean on."

City's defence of their title was put on hold this weekend while they face Chelsea in the FA Cup semi-final at Wembley. A late Bernado Silva goal was enough to earn Guardiola's side a narrow 1-0 victory, ensuring that the cup-holders will be in this year's final once more.

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Arsenal are currently a point ahead of City in the Premier League, having played a game more. The Gunners have five matches left to play, while defending champions City have six.