Premier League: Tense, tetchy but triumphant – Arsenal eyes now on Bournemouth
It seemed fitting that Arsenal retained the Premier League trophy thanks to a 1-0 win; All wins in the last four league games, three of which have resulted in this score, and the Gunners have conceded just once in their last six games.
While they were the team that conceded the fewest goals in the league (26), they last lost to Manchester City in open play on April 19, seven matches ago.
The clean sheet against Burnley was Arsenal’s 32nd clean sheet in all competitions this season.
“I thought the amount of hair I had would never disappear, but in this job my hair will be tested to its limits,” Arteta said.
“The enthusiasm shown by each player in their defensive duties, their behavior and the way they work for each other is outstanding.
“This has come about through a lot of hard work from all the coaches. We all know the importance of this and how many results and wins we have achieved because of it.”
It was their 13th win of the season, 1-0. Their style of play, their threat to and reliance on set-pieces, and the relative scarcity of bigger wins have brought criticism and fraught finishes in equal measure.
Manchester City will have a better goal difference if they win their last two games, meaning Arsenal will have to beat Crystal Palace. A draw will not be enough in this scenario.
Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher told Sky Sports: “In a funny way, Man City might actually have accepted it.” “Looking at how they played in the second half, I think nerves will really kick in if Manchester City beat Bournemouth. “Even if they’re missing a few players, Crystal Palace are a better team than Burnley.
“Arsenal will do it in the style of George Graham rather than Arsene Wenger; ‘1-0 to Arsenal’ probably sums them up.”
Former Manchester United defender Gary Neville added: “Arsenal are on the brink but luckily they are not making it difficult for themselves.
“You have to admire their ability to concentrate, focus and stick to their defensive style and principles. “They keep clean sheets and that’s a rare trait in the modern game, for a team to get a 1-0 win like this team.
“I guess seeing them at home will be enough.”
