Arsenal now have just 10 games left this season and the prospect of a top-four finish in the Premier League has never felt so close.
The club has made huge strides under Mikel Arteta this season and they are now on the final stretch.
This international break gives them time to reflect ahead of the run-in and Arsenal will want to use the fortnight wisely.
They face a busy schedule when they return, with rearranged games against Chelsea and Tottenham to fit in.
Here are three jobs for Arsenal and Arteta during the next fortnight…
Get Tomiyasu back fit
Cedric Soares has performed well at right-back, but Arsenal will want to have Takehiro Tomiyasu back and available.
The Japan defender has stayed at London Colney during the international break and will use the time to work with physios on a calf issue.
Tomiyasu has not played since January 20 and his return to the side would be a huge boost for the final 10 games.
Arteta has recently stressed how Arsenal were being careful with the defender’s rehabilitation, as they did not want to rush him back in case he suffered a recurring injury.
Try to get Lacazette firing
This is, obviously, easier said than done but it should be one of Arsenal’s priorities. Alexandre Lacazette has played a crucial role recently, both with his ability to create for others and his leadership on and off the pitch.
But if the Frenchman could add goals to his game it would make all the difference in Arsenal’s push to finish in the top four and qualify for the Champions League.
Even just a small goal rush of three or four in the final 10 games would be vital and give Arsenal the attacking threat they need right now.
Maintain new spirit and unity
Perhaps the biggest growth in Arsenal this season has come off the pitch.
The squad is more unified than ever and that was shown on Saturday with the celebrations after the win at Aston Villa.
The days of cliques are in the past and now players are singing from the same hymn sheet.
That will be vital for Arsenal during the run-in as there will no doubt be bumps along the way.
Arteta has predicted the Champions League race will be like a rollercoaster and the squad will need to stick together more than ever.
