What looked to be a competitive title race in the Premier League this year has fallen flat as Manchester City has climbed the table from an eight-point deficit to get just two points behind league leaders Arsenal in a thrilling 4-1 victory.

Though the Gunners have led the league for most of the year, City's experience and quality on the field showed they have the mentality to overcome the gap in the table.

This begs the question: Can anyone knock them off their perch?

City's Premier League dominance over the past decade has been widely documented. Many thought this year would be the chance that another club could become champions.

Arsenal have been the closest team to them this season, and even they don't seem like they can stop the inevitable.

As the 2022/23 Premier League season comes to a close, here are the five teams that could potentially threaten City's title run next year.

This ranking is primarily based on form, coaching, squad depth and whether or not each squad has the right mentality to challenge for the top spot.

1. Arsenal

With how they have led the league for most of the year, it's only natural to believe that Arsenal can challenge again next season.

Arsenal's slow rebuild into what they are now is commendable and, indeed, something that shouldn't be overlooked.

The Gunners showed they could play aesthetically pleasing football and win with conviction.

They still have a fantastic squad filled with players who know and understand Mikel Arteta's system and flexibility in the transfer market should they want to add to their roster.

The biggest challenge for Arsenal will be overcoming the heartbreak of letting their lead slip so close to the end.

However, if they can overcome that psychological barrier and reinvest enough squad in the summer, they can repeat their title charge in the 2023/24 season.