Hart on Man City's rebuild, Chelsea's opportunity and Arsenal's title defence

What the report says

Former Manchester City and England goalkeeper Joe Hart said he expects new City manager Enzo Maresca to be given time to reshape the club, even as the team faces a major transition after Pep Guardiola’s long spell in charge. Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live’s Monday Night Club, Hart argued that the main pressure on Maresca will come from outside the club rather than from within. He also noted that City remain well resourced and still have the quality to compete, despite recent changes in personnel and a 3-0 Community Shield loss to Arsenal.

Hart also said Arsenal must adapt to the demands of being champions after ending a long title wait last season. Drawing on his own experience of winning titles with City, he said defending a championship brings a different kind of scrutiny and that it is important to manage the first setback well. He praised Mikel Arteta’s work and his willingness to make bold decisions, while warning that success can quickly become harder to sustain.

On Chelsea, Hart said the absence of European football this season could be a benefit for a team still trying to settle under new leadership. He pointed to Chelsea’s strong 2016-17 campaign under Antonio Conte as an example of how a lighter schedule can help a side build consistency on the training ground. In Hart’s view, that gives Chelsea a real opportunity this season. The BBC’s discussion came as the Premier League campaign approaches and several top clubs face significant questions about rebuilding and momentum.