Key Highlights
- Arsenal have one of the four easiest fixture lists left and a six-point lead in the table.
- Chelsea face the second-toughest slate with multiple tough away matches early in March.
- The Manchester United schedule is notably lighter, with just 13 games remaining and two big asks at Old Trafford.
- Arsenal’s title hopes could be bolstered by their easier fixtures compared to City and Chelsea.
Arsenal: The Easy Path to Glory?
You might think this is new, but Arsenal’s chances of clinching the Premier League title might just be getting better with a relatively easier fixture list. According to Nicholas Mendola’s analysis, the Gunners have one of the four easiest schedules left in the league, which should give them an upper hand against their nearest rivals.
Armed and Ready
With only 13 games remaining, Arsenal sit comfortably at six points ahead of Manchester City. But the real test comes with upcoming matches against Tottenham and Chelsea just a week apart later this month. These London derbies could determine whether Arsenal can maintain their lead or fall into second place.
Chelsea: The Uphill Battle
But Chelsea, while still in contention, face an uphill battle to reclaim first place. Their schedule is the second-toughest in the league. Starting March, they have a six-match stretch that includes trips to Villa and Arsenal within three days of each other.
Followed by Newcastle, Everton, Man City, and Man United. This grueling run could be the difference between victory or defeat.
Pressure Points
Chelsea’s goal differential might still play in their favor, but the number of tough fixtures suggests they will need to stay on top form throughout this period to keep pace with Arsenal and City.
The Manchester United Factor
Manchester United, meanwhile, have a lighter schedule with just 13 games left. They’ve already secured two big wins at Old Trafford against Liverpool and Aston Villa, which could help them close the gap if they can maintain their form. However, key matches such as those against Man City and Arsenal will be crucial.
Targeting Wins
Michael Carrick’s men should target at least nine wins from these remaining games to stay relevant in the title race. With 39 points available, they could feasibly climb back into contention by mid-April.
The Final Stretch: Tampa and Beyond
The final stretch of the season is packed with big matches. On April 18, four key derbies will take place—Man City vs Arsenal, Chelsea vs Man United, and Everton vs Liverpool. This makes for a thrilling finale to an already intense Premier League campaign.
Conclusion
As we head into the final third of the season, the title race is far from over. Each team’s remaining fixtures will be crucial in determining who ultimately takes home the trophy. Arsenal might feel good about their prospects with one of the easier schedules left, but there’s still plenty of drama to unfold before May 30.