The Premier League title race is approaching its conclusion, yet despite Manchester City continuing to apply pressure, Arsenal have placed themselves in a commanding position with only two matches left to play.
Mikel Arteta’s side moved another step closer to ending the club’s long wait for a league crown after their 1-0 victory over West Ham United, a result that preserved a five-point lead at the top of the table.
City responded by defeating Brentford 3-0 at the Etihad Stadium, although the Manchester giants remain in a position where they can no longer afford any setbacks.
The situation is now becoming increasingly straightforward for Arsenal. Six points from their final two fixtures, at home against relegated Burnley and away to Crystal Palace on the last day, would secure the title regardless of City’s results.
Both opponents arrive with little left to fight for domestically, further strengthening the sense that the opportunity is firmly in Arsenal’s hands.
There is also a growing feeling that perfection may not even be necessary. City still have three difficult matches remaining, beginning with Crystal Palace before trips against Bournemouth and Aston Villa, two sides still pushing for European qualification and therefore unlikely to ease the burden on Guardiola’s squad.
Wednesday’s meeting with Palace has effectively become another must-win occasion for City. Victory would temporarily trim the deficit and extend the race deeper into May, but anything dropped could leave the Gunners within touching distance of the trophy before the final weekend even begins.