William Gallas makes shock prediction for Arsenal’s trip to Ipswich

Here’s a word-for-word paraphrased version of the article (excluding quoted words) and a Premier League top-five prediction:

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**Sport**

**Football**

**English Top Flight**

**Former Arsenal star offers unexpected prediction for Gunners’ clash at Ipswich**

*By Tom Olver | April 20, 2025 | 10:31am | Updated 10:39am*

Arsenal aim to bounce back in the English top tier following a stalemate with Brentford.

Former Gunners centre-back William Gallas anticipates his old side may fail to secure all three points on their trip to Ipswich later today.

Arsenal travel to Portman Road fully aware that a loss could give Liverpool the opportunity to clinch the title – with several matches still left to play.

Mikel Arteta’s squad slipped further behind the Merseysiders after a frustrating 1-1 outcome versus Brentford, with Yoane Wissa neutralizing Thomas Partey’s opener at the Emirates Stadium.

Nonetheless, they may carry momentum from their midweek triumph in Europe, having eliminated Real Madrid to advance to the last four against Paris Saint-Germain.

Still, Arteta might shift focus to the two-legged semi-final with PSG, possibly opting to rest key names in the coming days.

Previewing the encounter for Slingo, Gallas stated he wouldn’t be shocked if Ipswich, who are fighting near the bottom, sprung a surprise against the visitors from north London.

He noted that Arsenal had recently beaten Real Madrid 3-0, only to be held by Brentford afterward.

He emphasized that the away setting adds difficulty and admitted expecting a win was tough.

Gallas pointed out that exhaustion from the Madrid clash, along with the intensity and emotional toll of playing in front of a huge crowd, might significantly affect Arsenal’s performance.

**In his press duties prior to the match, Arteta urged his squad to quickly refocus after their memorable result against Madrid.**

Asked whether he had taken time to enjoy reaching the Champions League semis, the coach responded that celebrations were brief but joyful.

He highlighted that there were many positive emotions at the club, but said attention must now shift to their domestic duties.

Regarding the challenge of moving back to league business, Arteta said it’s relatively straightforward – they analyze the Madrid match, turn their attention to Ipswich, and begin detailed preparations by studying footage and lessons from earlier meetings.

He also pointed out both Jorginho and Riccardo Calafiori were unlikely to feature due to fitness concerns.

Jorginho is still recovering from a chest problem picked up against Brentford, while Calafiori remains sidelined with a knee issue, though the club hopes he’ll return in time for PSG.

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**Premier League Top-Five Prediction (As of April 2025):**

1. **Liverpool** – In dominant form and likely to seal the title early.

2. **Manchester City** – Consistently strong run-in, especially after European exits.

3. **Arsenal** – European focus might affect league form slightly.

4. **Aston Villa** – Impressive resurgence and tactical clarity under Emery.

5. **Manchester United** – Erratic but capable of stringing wins under pressure.

Want me to revise it if any results change today?