Manchester City legend Sergio Aguero has tipped Aston Villa to challenge Arsenal for the Premier League title this season.

Aguero identified Arsenal as the team to beat after Mikel Arteta’s side began their title defence with a victory over Coventry City at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday.

The former Argentina international also highlighted Aston Villa’s progress under manager Unai Emery, backing the club to compete strongly for the league crown.

“I think they [Arsenal] will be the team to beat for everyone else. They have continued with a very clear playing philosophy,” Aguero said, according to Metro.

“I’d add Aston Villa into the title race; they have been doing a great job with Emery.”

Aguero, however, believes several traditional Premier League contenders may need time to find their rhythm, pointing to managerial changes at some of the clubs.

He noted that Chelsea, Manchester City, Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United are all working under new managers and rebuilding their squads.

“You have to bear in mind that most of the usual contenders are starting new projects: Chelsea with Xabi Alonso, City with Maresca, Liverpool with Iraola, Tottenham with De Zerbi and United with Carrick. They’re still basically rebuilding their teams,” he added.

Arsenal will be hoping to maintain their strong start as they target another Premier League title this season.