Arsenal continued their imperious form at the top of the Premier League when they faced Crystal Palace on Sunday afternoon. The Eagles looked to make the game awkward as they chased a first win in the division since the start of 2023, with former Gunners captain Patrick Vieira dismissed as manager just before the match.
After an end-to-end start, the north London side took control of the game after half-an-hour when Gabriel Martinelli found the back of the net. Bukayo Saka quickly doubled that lead before half-time, with Granit Xhaka adding a third just after the break to take a grasp of the tie.
Jeffery Schlupp pulled one back for the visitors with a goal from a corner, but any concern of a comeback from the crowd was soon put to rest as Saka scored once again. It was an ideal response to the side’s defeat to Sporting CP in the Europa League in midweek.
The victory made sure the Gunners went into the international break eight points ahead of title rivals Manchester City – though the Citizens have a game in hand. With that said, here’s a look at the next five Premier League fixtures compared to their title rivals in the coming weeks.
Leeds United – H, April 1
After the international break, Arsenal return to the Emirates once again as they face Leeds United in another huge Premier League clash. The Peacocks find themselves towards the bottom of the table and involved in a relegation scrap, but have shown they have fight after a win against Wolves at the weekend.
Liverpool – A, April 9
Then it’s time for a trip to Liverpool, where Arsenal have been poor travellers in recent campaigns and may have to get something out of the game if they are to be crowned champions at the end of the season. The Reds have struggled in the campaign, but have got themselves back in the hunt for top four and could cause plenty of problems.
West Ham – A, April 16
West Ham have been far from the side they developed into in recent seasons, moving away from being European challengers to relegation strugglers. The Hammers still have plenty of quality in their side though and will cause some problems, especially given the fact they will be at home.
Southampton – H, April 21
Another relegation candidate follows for the Gunners as they host a Southampton that has kept themselves in the race to survive in the league under Ruben Selles. The Saints have a decent record against the “big six” in the division this campaign, with the latest result being a 3-3 draw against Tottenham.
Man City – A, April 26
To end the next run of five fixtures is the potential title decider between Arsenal and their rivals City, which could shift the dynamic of the whole campaign. The previous clash ended in a victory for Pep Guardiola’s side, but the outcome of this tie could be the biggest one of all.
Manchester City’s next five fixtures:
Liverpool – H, April 1
Southampton – A, April 8
Leicester – H, April 15
Brighton – A, April 23
Arsenal – H, April 26
