Arsenal edge past Burnley as Mikel Arteta relies on Bournemouth favour
Arsenal have moved a step closer to the Premier League title with a tense 1-0 victory over Burnley, leaving manager Mikel Arteta hoping for a favour from Bournemouth against Manchester City.
The Gunners secured their 13th single-goal league win of the season following another defensively resolute display.
Despite naming an attacking lineup featuring Martin Odegaard and Kai Havertz, the north London side were forced to endure a nervy finale against their relegated opponents.
The visitors failed to register a single shot on target but controlled 67% of possession during the final 20 minutes.
A tense wait for the Spaniard
Arteta will now watch from home as his childhood friend Andoni Iraola attempts to derail Manchester City’s title charge.
Iraola’s Bournemouth side host the reigning champions, who are managed by Arteta’s former mentor Pep Guardiola.
A positive result for the Cherries would put destiny firmly in Arsenal’s hands ahead of the final day of the season.
“I thought the amount of hair I have would never go away, and this job is going to test it to the limit.”
The 42-year-old manager joked about the immense pressure following another agonisingly tight encounter.
Defensive solidity masks attacking nerves
Pundits including Jamie Carragher and Gary Neville had previously suggested the title race was practically decided after West Ham were beaten.
However, this narrow victory served as a stark reality check for any supporters expecting a stress-free conclusion.
The title contenders struggled to kill the game off and lacked their usual attacking fluidity.
Instead, they relied heavily on a formidable backline that has not conceded from open play since last month’s defeat to City.
Final day looming against Crystal Palace
If the title race does extend to the final weekend, a difficult trip to Selhurst Park awaits the league leaders.
Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner has already promised a fierce test for the visiting title hopefuls.
“I will play the strongest team against Arsenal.”
Arsenal fans will be desperately hoping their former youth prospect Iraola can render that final fixture completely meaningless.