With Premier League fixtures once again heating up, all eyes are on Arsenal. Will this club be able to retain the top spot? Might we see them once again walk away with a title? While predictions are rife, there are still a handful of reasonable conclusions which can be drawn. Let’s take a look at some of the reasons why many feel that the odds are currently in Arsenal’s favour as well as what it may take to rise above their closest competitors.
The Sheer Power of Numbers
This first observation highlights what some will term the most logical reason why Arsenal will remain on top. It is important to note that (at the time that this article was written), Arsenal is currently eight points clear of Manchester City. In other words, they have created a considerably wide gap in relation to their rivals. It is for this reason alone that some industry experts feel that Arsenal will be able to weather any future storms that might occur on the pitch. However, there are also other factors to take into account.
A Question of Focus
To be perfectly clear, the fixtures between Manchester City and Arsenal are tight at the moment. This is why some have taken an “on-the-fence” approach in terms of which team will emerge victorious. However, focus is another key component. It is crucial to highlight the fact that Arsenal are solely concerned with the Premiere League. On the other hand, Manchester City has to worry about these standings as well as the Champion’s League and the FA Cup. It is therefore understandable why astute bookmakers and avid fans alike are keeping a close eye on live Premier League scores in conjunction other major competitions.
Historical Precedents
History will likewise play a role in Premier League fixtures. To put it bluntly, Arsenal is certainly no stranger to pressure. From first-half steamrolling to knife-edge comebacks at the last minute, this team always seems to have another surprise in store even when the odds seem insurmountable. This sense of confidence can undoubtedly come in handy when the going gets tough.
What About Man City?
While the odds seem to point towards Arsenal at the moment, it would be foolish to count Manchester City out. For example, it is not unfathomable to imagine this team clinching the next 11 games only to tie against Arsenal during the Premier League. In this scenario, they may be able to squeeze through to the top by a thin margin. Furthermore, Man City has the talent and the leadership required to battle Arsenal with a second-to-none level of confidence while on the pitch.
Of course, all of these observations can be disputed to a certain extent. It is still clear that Arsenal currently has the lead and if history has anything to say about it, the chances of the suddenly slipping are slim. This is why all eyes will remain focused on the upcoming playoffs and Arsenal fans will remain on the edge of their seats.