Arsenal defender Thomas Vermaelen admits money talks in football.

More than most, Arsenal have felt the force of their lure, losing Kolo Toure, Emmanuel Adebayor, Gael Clichy and Samir Nasri to the Manchester City revolution.

"They deserve to be champions," Vermaelen told the Daily Mail. "The table never lies. They had the most points. Well, they had the same as Manchester United but they were top of the table and the table never lies.

"We beat them and they beat us, also. That's two games. Winning the league is about being the most consistent and they were the most consistent. They're doing something right.

"Money can do a lot in football but it doesn't mean you can win prizes all the time.

"City did it last year. Chelsea did it in the beginning as well but not all the time. They didn't win it every year and they didn't win the Champions League until last year.

"I don't think money can make sure you win trophies. It helps, of course. Nowadays, that's how football works. You need money to build a team.

"Your vision is really important as well."