Arsenal has lifted its mood after a season that looked in jeopardy last month, now leading the Premier League by two points with 79 points from 36 games as the campaign nears its conclusion [1, 2]. The Gunners were briefly overtaken by Manchester City but have since reclaimed top spot despite City's superior goal difference [1, 2]. Manager Mikel Arteta said on May 14 the team is "emotionally in a really good state" with the "energy level the right one" heading into the final fixtures [1].
Arsenal’s hopes of a quadruple ended earlier this year when it lost the League Cup final to Manchester City in March and was knocked out of the FA Cup quarter-finals by Southampton in April [1, 2]. Despite these setbacks, Arsenal secured a Champions League final spot against Paris St Germain, adding a major goal for the season [1, 2].
Injuries have affected Arsenal’s squad, with defender Ben White suffering a long-term injury and Jurrien Timber also sidelined, leaving the club short-staffed at right back [1, 2]. Arteta acknowledged the challenge: "We need to look at alternatives. The two players we have are not available at the moment. So we need to look and do something else" [1].
Arteta highlighted the importance of scoring goals as the title race tightens. He said, "First we have to earn the right to win the game. Obviously if you can make a difference with more goals, that's even better... But we know ideally that scoring goals is going to be important" [1].
The team is preparing for its next Premier League match against Burnley, with Arteta noting that most players except the injured right backs are returning and morale remains high [1]. Arsenal aims to maintain its two-point lead over Manchester City as the season reaches its final rounds.