It’s expected to be a tense finish to the season for both Arsenal and Manchester City, with the Premier League winner set to be decided in the final few matches. The Gunners clinched three crucial points with a 1-0 victory over West Ham United, following a dramatic injury-time VAR intervention.
Manchester City’s 3-0 win over Brentford on Saturday afternoon reduced Arsenal’s advantage at the summit to two points, with the Gunners maintaining a slender goal difference of just one goal better.
Arsenal sought to respond when they faced West Ham at the London Stadium less than 24 hours later. Mikel Arteta‘s side were stifled by the Hammers, who are battling against relegation.
Moving into the dying stages of the match, Arsenal were indebted to David Raya for keeping West Ham out after he denied Mateus Fernandez. That save proved even more significant when Leandro Trossard netted a vital goal in the 83rd minute to put Arsenal 1-0 up.
There was still time for late controversy when West Ham believed they had levelled deep into stoppage time. However, a VAR check determined that Raya was fouled in the build-up, with the goal chalked off.
The result extended Arsenal’s lead to five points over their rivals, before City’s game in hand this week. It ensures their destiny continues to rest in their own hands.
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There might still be several more twists and turns in the race as the campaign draws to a close. With that in mind, here’s what’s in store for both sides.
Vs Burnley (H) – Mon 18 May (8pm)
Vs Crystal Palace (A) – Sun 24 May (4pm)
Arsenal should expect victory over Burnley at the Emirates Stadium with the Clarets’ drop to the Championship already sealed.
A fixture at Selhurst Park is never straightforward, but Arsenal may benefit from the Eagles’ participation to the UEFA Conference League final. That showpiece takes place just days after the encounter with Arsenal, meaning Palace could rotate with an eye on European glory.
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Vs Crystal Palace (H) – Wed 13 May (8pm)
Vs Bournemouth (A) – Tues 19 May (7.30pm)
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Vs Aston Villa (H) – Sun 24 May (4pm)
City’s game in hand arrives in just a few days as they welcome Palace, a fixture where Pep Guardiola’s men would expect to collect three points at home. The toughest test probably arrives in the away journey to Bournemouth, who themselves are chasing a spot in European football next season.
Like Arsenal, City meet a team in a European final on the final day of the campaign, but Villa’s final comes before the fixture at the Etihad Stadium. Fatigue could therefore play a part.