3 vital factors in Arsenal’s Premier League title charge

LISBON, PORTUGAL - MARCH 09: Mikel Arteta, Manager of Arsenal, applauds the fans following the UEFA Europa League round of 16 leg one match between Sporting CP and Arsenal FC at Estadio Jose Alvalade on March 09, 2023 in Lisbon, Portugal. (Photo by Carlos Rodrigues/Getty Images)
LISBON, PORTUGAL - MARCH 09: Mikel Arteta, Manager of Arsenal, applauds the fans following the UEFA Europa League round of 16 leg one match between Sporting CP and Arsenal FC at Estadio Jose Alvalade on March 09, 2023 in Lisbon, Portugal. (Photo by Carlos Rodrigues/Getty Images) /
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Bukayo Saka must be fresh for the final stretch. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)
Bukayo Saka must be fresh for the final stretch. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images) /

3. Avoid a Bukayo Saka burnout

The previous factor makes this a slight issue. In the middle of the season, it seemed Gabriel Martinelli was suffering from burnout before the addition of Leandro Trossard helped sparked the Brazilian back into life amid Gabriel Jesus’ absence.

Unfortunately, with the departures of Nicolas Pepe and Maquinhos on loan, Bukayo Saka does not have a natural backup in his position. Fabio Vieira can play on the right, but Saka is frankly too impactful not to play. With an off night against Lisbon in the 2-2 draw, fans were concerned that Saka looked tired and burnt out.

It is only fair, and responsible, that Arsenal fans will be hoping that the 21-year-old will play a maximum of one of the international games, considering the minutes he’ll be asked to rack up down the stretch.

Arsenal are in good shape. Trossard and Jesus have returned from injury, with the latter still ramping up to full fitness. The team is cohesive, united and on the path to victory. Follow the above three factors and destiny will become reality.