Mikel Arteta has stressed the importance of Arsenal topping their Europa League group and getting a bye to the last-16 of the competition.
The Gunners are currently in first place in Group A and they are two points clear of PSV Eindhoven, who they face on Thursday at Emirates Stadium.
Arsenal can stretch out their lead at the top by beating the Dutch side and Arteta is determined to qualify in first place.
Teams who win their Europa League group miss the round of 32 and, during a packed season, that could be vital.
“We have discussed that, for two reasons,” said Arteta.
“One because you skip two matches and also because you miss some of the top teams because they have been knocked out of the Champions League.
“For sure it is important [this season] because we have never played this many games after the World Cup. Any games you can skip it’s a big bonus.”
PSV are coached by former Manchester United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy, who has led them to second in the Dutch top-flight after 10 games.
They have scored 35 goals, more than anyone else in the league, and Arteta is expecting a tough encounter against a familiar opponent in the opposite dugout.
“Not very enjoyable,” said Arteta, when asked about his memories of playing Van Nistelrooy.
“He was a terrific striker. I don’t know what he’ll be like to coach against, it is the first time I will do it. He is doing really well.
“He has a really difficult team to contain, he has many different options to hurt you and tomorrow will be difficult.”
