Arsenal are not back in action until May 18 when they host Burnley in their final home game of the season
It felt like a scandalous decision at the time but the fact Arsenal are not back in action until May 18 is a welcome boost for Mikel Arteta.
The Gunners host Burnley in one week’s time as they play their final home match of the campaign at the Emirates. Stadium.
It’s also the first time since gameweek four that Arsenal have enjoyed eight days rest between two fixtures.
While there will be lots of excitement about the prospect of finishing the job, it also allows Arteta and his players to hit the reset button.
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They have been through a lot this season, which has asked huge questions of them but now Premier League glory is within touching distance.
Furthermore, they also get to enjoy watching Manchester City in action – twice to be precise – when they face Crystal Palace and then Chelsea in the FA Cup final.
The reality is, City will largely be expected to beat Palace but equally, Arsenal would love to see the Eagles pull off a shock at the Etihad Stadium because it would hand Arsenal the chance to win the title against the Clarets.
It’s not just about the title though, it’s also about injuries. The Gunners picked up another two on Sunday when Ben White and Riccardo Calafiori were both forced off for the Gunners.
White’s knee injury looks serious while there is far less concern over Calafiori after the Italian was withdrawn at half-time.
Then there’s long-standing absentees Jurrien Timber and Mikel Merino, who are still trying to play a part in Arsenal’s season.
If White is out for the rest of the season, Arsenal need Timber back for the Champions League final because they will have to try and nullify Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.
Cristhian Mosquera could be in line to feature but the break will suit Arsenal’s injured stars and their desire to get back playing in the coming weeks.
It also kills a bit of Burnley’s momentum following their shock 2-2 draw against Aston Villa at Turf Moor on Sunday.
They are already down but there will be a good feeling about the place following last weekend’s result, even if facing Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium is a very different proposition.
Arsenal have played so many matches this season, over 60 now, and a clear week with plenty of recovery is the perfect preparation for their final push.
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