Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta insists Manchester City are title favourites this season.
City sit ahead of Arsenal as Premier League leaders on goal difference, though the Gunners have a game in hand.
But Arteta believes the reigning champions have always been favourites anyway.
I don't think we have ever been favourites, I don't think that has changed," said Arteta.
Man City have been the No.1 candidates from day one because they have been in that position for much of the last five years."
Arteta believes Arsenal, who travel to Aston Villa on Saturday lunchtime knowing a point will take them top, are getting extra support from opposing fans who want an underdog to win the League.
That I agree with because of what they see, people have a lot of sympathy for us, our players and the way we have done things," he said.
Before the season, if you had to bet on someone, put some money or your house on somebody, I think a lot of people would have done something different."