The final international break of the season is out of the way and the Premier League run-in now begins in earnest.
Our writers are looking ahead to the season’s climax and for Arsenal the remaining ten games are all about a push for fourth place.
So can they do it?
What shape is the squad in after the international break?
There are a few issues but nothing that should concern Arsenal too much. Bukayo Saka should be back soon from Covid-19 and Takehiro Tomiyasu has, almost, finally shaken off a long-term calf issue.
Aaron Ramsdale is another fitness doubt due to a hip problem but, even if he misses Monday’s game with Crystal Palace, he should be back fairly quickly. Arsenal’s problems could easily be a lot worse.
What is the club aiming for from the rest of the season?
Qualifying for the Champions League. That seemed unthinkable when the Gunners kicked off the season with three League defeats in a row, but they have bounced back in style. They are in the driving seat to finish fourth and, for the first time in a while, are favourites to do so.
And the minimum requirement?
Qualifying for the Europa League. Anything less than that would be a failure given Arsenal’s position right now. Being in the Europa League could benefit Arsenal as it would give them a stage to blood more youngsters from the academy.
A spot in the Europa Conference League, which would be theirs if they finish seventh, is much less attractive though, given the calibre of opposition and financial incentives on offer.
What are the factors that will settle the campaign?
The biggest factor for Arsenal will be injuries. They have a small and shallow squad, and injuries in key positions would hurt them. Most worrying would be an injury to either of the centre-backs, Thomas Partey or Alexandre Lacazette.
The Gunners also need to make a fast start after the international break. They play Palace, Brighton and Southampton before big games against Chelsea, Manchester United, West Ham and Tottenham come round the corner. They can’t go into those matches on the back foot.
What’s the mood in the camp?
Optimistic and united. Arsenal have gone from a team in disarray at the start of the season to fighting for the Champions League. There was a time when the dressing room had to deal with cliques and it lacked harmony. Arteta, however, has united the group and the benefits are clear for all to see.
Who’s got something to prove?
Nicolas Pepe has never gotten going since his club-record £72million move in 2019 and now would be the perfect time to do so. He is struggling for starts, but could play a crucial role off the bench in the run-in.
Eddie Nketiah, who is out of contract in the summer, should also use the time wisely as well. Clubs will be looking at him and he can use this as a shop window.
Remaining fixtures
- Crystal Palace A
- Brighton H
- Southampton A
- Chelsea A
- Manchester United H
- West Ham A
- Leeds H
- Newcastle A
- Everton H
- *Tottenham A (needs to be arranged)
Prediction: 4th
