How Arsenal Can Clinch the Premier League Title
Arsenal delivered their best Premier League season in terms of points last year, yet they fell just short of the ultimate prize. Finishing two points behind Manchester City highlighted the slim margin between success and second place.
Despite their impressive performance, the Gunners recognize that improvement is essential to surpassing City. Last season, Arsenal excelled in goals scored, defensive solidity, goal difference, and overall points, yet they still missed out on the title.
Historical Context
To appreciate Arsenal’s recent progress, consider their top Premier League seasons since the switch to a 38-game format:
| Season | P | W | D | L | F | A | GD | Pts | Pos |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023-24 | 38 | 28 | 5 | 5 | 91 | 29 | 62 | 89 | 2 |
| 2001-02 | 38 | 26 | 9 | 3 | 79 | 36 | 43 | 87 | 1 |
| 2022-23 | 38 | 26 | 6 | 6 | 88 | 43 | 45 | 84 | 2 |
| 2004-05 | 38 | 25 | 8 | 5 | 87 | 36 | 51 | 83 | 2 |
| 1990-91 | 38 | 24 | 13 | 1 | 74 | 18 | 56 | 83* | 1 |
| 2002-03 | 38 | 23 | 9 | 6 | 85 | 42 | 43 | 78 | 2 |
*In 1990-91, Arsenal had two points deducted due to a brawl during a match against Manchester United.
Competing at the Top
In the recently concluded season, the top three teams—Manchester City, Arsenal, and Liverpool—accumulated a combined 262 points. This is among the highest totals, comparable to the 267 points in 2018-19. By contrast, the 1990-91 season saw the top three gather only 228 points. This trend of higher points totals among the leading teams highlights the increasing difficulty for others to break into the top tier, making Arsenal’s rise from 2021 to 2024 even more commendable.
The Bottom of the Table
The gap between the top and bottom of the Premier League is widening. Last season, the bottom three teams collectively earned only 66 points, a significant drop from previous years. For instance, the relegated teams in 2023 amassed 90 points, and those in 2022 garnered 80 points. This trend suggests a growing disparity in the league’s competitiveness, undermining claims of the Premier League’s parity.
Arsenal’s Path to Victory
For Arsenal to surpass Manchester City, they must focus on a few critical areas:
- Scoring: Increase their goal tally by one more goal every six games, equating to six additional goals over the season, which could make a decisive difference.
- Discipline: Reduce yellow cards, aiming for 12 fewer to enhance their defensive stability and avoid suspensions.
- Consistency: Convert two losses into draws, which would have matched City’s points last season.
Conclusion
While these adjustments might seem modest, they are crucial for bridging the gap to Manchester City. Arsenal’s recent performance demonstrates their capability, but fine-tuning these areas could turn them into Premier League champions. With strategic enhancements, the Gunners are poised to challenge for the top spot and make their mark in the upcoming season.