I think it's too early to be assuming the runner up winner of the EPL title this season, I would've said it going to be Man City turn again this tournament but it's a different story for the cityzens from the start of the league, they are actually distabilised and it's going to take them time to rearrange themselves back again.
If Arsenal can put more effort to winning almost all their games, it would def disrupt Liverpool progress and put them on shady mood.
Liverpool are almost certain to be the Premier League champions this season unless they lose badly like Manchester City or Chelsea. Liverpool are leading by a large margin and are performing well in every match.
However, it is difficult to predict which team will occupy the second place in the table. Arsenal are the favourites for the second place in the table. Nottingham Forest are playing quite well. However, I doubt whether this team can continue their good performance in the long run. Also, I would say that if City can recover their form then there is a big chance that we will see Manchester City in the second place in the table.
Liverpool have really taken so much courage and continue to do well, I doubt any team that will challenge them because they have maintained a very good stand to the extent that no teams will make it close to them. Liverpool are six points away from second place with an outstanding match against Everton which I believe in them despite Everton make life difficult for the top teams but I think Liverpool will be an exception because of their current performance.
When we talk about second place, so far arsenal have really make a very good impact in maintaining the position. Nottingham that were battling the second place with arsenal have given up for arsenal, this show clearly that Nottingham Forest can not withstand the pressure at top, I give up on them when they had their last match against Bournemouth by conceded many goals. I think you are mistaken Manchester City for another club by saying they can finish second if the can be in their best performance, know that arsenal are there and they have six points difference which I found it difficult for Manchester City to beat.