The English Premier League title race between Arsenal and Manchester City has entered its decisive stage with only two rounds remaining. Arsenal currently lead by two points, but City hold the edge on goal difference (both +1, but City have scored 75 goals to Arsenal's 68) and the head-to-head record: a 2-1 win at home in April and a 1-1 draw at the Emirates in September.
This weekend, Arsenal host already-relegated Burnley at home, while Manchester City travel to Bournemouth—a side still chasing a Champions League spot. Both play on Monday (May 18) and Tuesday (May 19) before the final day of the season on Sunday, May 24. Arsenal face Crystal Palace (15th, safe) away; Man City host Aston Villa (already certain of Champions League football, fresh from the Europa League final on May 20).
If Arsenal win both remaining games, they will lift the Premier League trophy for the first time in 22 years. But if Arsenal slip, City can exploit their superior goal difference and head-to-head record to leapfrog them. Conversely, if Arsenal win on Monday and City fail to win on Tuesday, Arsenal would clinch the title a round early.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said he wants his side to crush Burnley to improve their goal difference: “First of all, we have to earn the right to win. Scoring more goals is better. Scoring is very important.” He also emphasized the team's morale is excellent.
Meanwhile, Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola said his team can only “survive” and hope Arsenal stumble. “If they win two games, there’s nothing more we can do. We just need to be there in case. The last two games are very difficult.” Guardiola also hopes their 1-0 FA Cup final win over Chelsea on May 16 will boost his players—it gave them a domestic cup double after winning the League Cup in March.
Historically, Arsenal have won England's top-flight title 13 times, most recently in 2003-04. City have 10 titles, mostly since 2012, with Guardiola collecting six of those.
