Arsenal have strengthened their position in the Premier League title race following their victory over Brighton and Hove Albion, while champions Manchester City dropped points in a draw against Nottingham Forest.

The result leaves Mikel Arteta’s side in a strong position with eight matches remaining in the season, although City still have a game in hand.

With the current points situation, Arsenal remain in control of their destiny.

If the North London side wins all their remaining matches, they will be crowned champions regardless of Manchester City’s results.

One of the most decisive fixtures in the title run-in will be Arsenal’s trip to the Etihad Stadium in April to face City.

The outcome of that encounter could have a significant impact on the direction of the race.

If Arsenal secure victory at the Etihad, they would only need to pick up 15 points from their other seven games to clinch the title, assuming City win all their remaining matches.

However, if the match ends in a draw, Arsenal would need to collect at least 18 points from their remaining seven fixtures to stay ahead of the defending champions.

A defeat in Manchester would place greater pressure on Arteta’s men, as they would then likely need to win all their other league matches to maintain their advantage.

Another factor that could favour Arsenal is their schedule.

The Gunners are set to play most of their remaining league matches in London, with the trip to Manchester expected to be their only major away test in the closing weeks of the campaign.

Still, the run-in could be complicated by other competitions, with Champions League fixtures and domestic cup commitments likely to test squad depth for both sides.

The Premier League run-in is further complicated by the Carabao Cup final at Wembley, where both Arsenal and Manchester City could face another high-stakes encounter. The outcome may provide a crucial psychological boost to the winner ahead of the final weeks of the title race.

As the season enters its decisive phase, Arsenal’s ability to maintain consistency while navigating a demanding schedule may ultimately determine whether they can secure their first Premier League title since Premier League 2003–04 season.

Remaining fixtures:

Arsenal

Sat 14 Mar: Arsenal vs Everton

Sat 11 Apr: Arsenal vs Bournemouth

Sun 19 Apr: Arsenal vs Manchester City

Sat 25 Apr: Arsenal vs Newcastle United

Sat 2 May: Arsenal vs Fulham

Sat 9 May: Arsenal vs West Ham United

Sun 17 May: Arsenal vs Burnley

Sun 24 May: Arsenal vs Crystal Palace

Manchester City

Sat 14 Mar: Man City vs West Ham

Sun 12 Apr: Man City vs Chelsea

Sun 19 Apr: Man City vs Arsenal

Sun 26 Apr: Man City vs Burnley

Sat 2 May: Man City vs Everton

Sat 9 May: Man City vs Brentford

Sun 17 May: Man City vs Bournemouth

Sun 24 May: Man City vs Aston Villa (PUNCH)

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