PREMIER LEAGUE: Title race cools off as relegation battle becomes intense

CONTINUED FROM 12 the appointment of former club captain Mikel Arteta as manager. He has offloaded many of the big personalities and deadweight players, instilled a strict but healthy environment, and made smart signings that have created a culture that players want to be a part of. Though many people could see the progress, nobody imagined they would have just one defeat in their opening 19 matches and lead the title race by the halfway point. With the youngest squad in the Premier League and the second youngest manager, Arsenal certainly have a bright future ahead.

During the early days of preseason, second place Manchester City were heavy favorites to win the league for a third consecutive time. Though they have stumbled, they still have a significant shot, especially with Norwegian phenom Erling Haaland leading the line. Signed this summer from German club Borussia Dortmund, the 22-year -old has smashed many records.

In 19 matches he already has 25 goals and 3 assists, on pace for 48 goals this season — the current record is just 34. He also has four hat tricks, by far the quickest to ever achieve that feat. However, the team around him has struggled to find similar success and will have to work hard to catch up with the Gunners.

Another surprise is Newcastle United. A year ago, the Magpies had one win and 11 points in their opening 20 matches and became one of the favorites to be relegated to the Division II EFL Championship. Today, they sit comfortably in third place with 10 wins and 39 points, boasting the best defense in the Premier League. The team was inspired by managerial and ownership change — even though the new