Manchester City have seized the initiative in the Premier League title race and now level on points with Arsenal, they lead the table by a three-goal margin as the season enters its final five matches.
The 1–0 win at Burnley has only added momentum to their monster mentality, making their recent result against Arsenal even more significant. The title is now firmly in the hands of Pep Guardiola, while Mikel Arteta will be demanding goals, lots of them, to keep the pressure on.
With just five games left, it’s time for football’s favourite pastime: predicting how it all unfolds. Let’s break it down at Man City Square.
The need for goals
Manchester City still face a tricky run-in, with fixtures against in-form and defensively organised sides like Everton, AFC Bournemouth and Brentford unlikely to be straightforward.
That could play into the hands of Arsenal, who will be eager to pile on the pressure. Their home match against Burnley looks like the best opportunity to boost their goal difference, especially against a side already relegated. Arsenal will feel they missed a chance in a similar game recently, despite generating an xG of 3.47.
Their upcoming clash with Newcastle United is harder to call. Eddie Howe’s side have been inconsistent and historically struggle in London, but they remain capable of an upset. As for games against Fulham and West Ham United, much will depend on which version of those teams shows up on the day.
Away slip-ups
While both sides will expect to win most of their remaining matches, the greater risk of a slip-up comes on the road, especially with their home fixtures looking far more secure.
Manchester City face potentially tricky away trips to Everton and AFC Bournemouth. Both are pushing for European spots, and Bournemouth in particular are in strong form, unbeaten in their last 12. These are the kinds of games that could test City’s title credentials, even after their momentum-shifting result against Arsenal.
For Arsenal, away fixtures against West Ham United, who may still be battling for survival, and Crystal Palace present their own challenges. Palace, under Oliver Glasner, could be motivated to finish strongly, while the emotional edge of a home crowd and potential farewells may add further unpredictability.
Predictions
The predictions are in, and while neutrals will be hoping for plenty of late drama, it still feels like the Premier League trophy will be adorned with sky blue ribbons.
Arsenal | Manchester City |
|---|---|
Arsenal 3 - 1 Newcastle | Everton 1 -2 Manchester City |
Arsenal 2 - 0 Fulham | Manchester City 2 - 0 Brentford |
West Ham 1 - 1 Arsenal | Bournemouth 1 - 2 Manchester City |
Arsenal 5 - 0 Burnely | Manchester City 3 - 1 Crystal Palace |
Crystal Palace 1 - 2 Arsenal | Manchester City 2 - 1 Aston Villa |
Postition 2nd - 83 points, GD 47 | Position 1st - 85 points, GD 44 |
Our forecast sees City winning out to take the title by two points. The heartbreak for Arsenal is expected to arrive at West Ham, where a Gunners slip-up will serve a dual purpose: securing safety for the Hammers and sealing a historic relegation for Tottenham. Silver linings, indeed.
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