Jurgen Klopp expects five teams to fight Liverpool for the Premier League title this season.
The Reds dominated on their way to the top flight crown last term - finishing on 99 points, 18 clear of Man City in second - and confidently dispatched Chelsea 2-0 at Stamford Bridge last weekend after a frenetic 4-3 win against Leeds on the opening day.
Liverpool face Arsenal on Monday and Klopp was asked if the unusual conditions following the outbreak of coronavirus - such as no supporters inside stadiums - give teams such as the Gunners more chance of winning the title.
"I don't think Arsenal are a very good example because last year they came eighth but didn't have enough time to sort out the situation but, in my opinion, they were not the eighth best team in the league," he replied.
"I think they would have qualified easily for a Europa League spot, if not, pip Chelsea.
"That is good news they have the midweek European games as well because otherwise with the quality they have would have an advantage with different situations.
"The Premier League and these teams with what they do is too much and too good that the season isn't decided before it is started, so it doesn't just work like this.
"People thought Man City would have some struggles at Wolves because Wolves are really good but you watch the game and the first half looked like always but the second half was obviously better and could have got a point if you want so these things.
"Nobody is safe of these kinds of things and so we have to work incredibly hard to sort it out, but the other teams have no influence.
"When we face them we want to beat them, that's all we can do, but, yes often it is an open race.
"Chelsea will be there 100 percent, United will be there, Arsenal and Tottenham will always be there.
"And there will be tough moments for us from other teams as well and it is about how you react. Can you react the right way.
"The season is not a sprint, it is a marathon obviously and you have to go through a lot of difficult moments.
"I don't know why today we speak about winning the league after two matchdays and I have no idea who will win the league but I know a lot of teams will try and we are one of them."
