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Arsenal return to Premier League action this weekend with a huge game against Bournemouth.
The Gunners have not played in the league since the 14th of March, but they have still been very busy. They have featured in the three other competitions, with their latest game coming in the Champions League on Tuesday night in Portugal.
That schedule has taken a toll on the players, both physically and mentally.
What makes things worse is that Bournemouth come into this game at the Emirates with a significant advantage that nobody is really talking about – a lot of rest.
🏆👀 I am feeling __% confident that Arsenal will win the Premier League title this season…
Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images Bournemouth will face Arsenal after 21 days of rest
Bournemouth have not played a single game since the 20th of March, which means they will have had a 21-day break before facing Arsenal.
That is a huge advantage, especially at this stage of the season when fatigue becomes a major factor.
Arsenal, on the other hand, have been involved in multiple high-intensity matches during that period.
Their recent win over Sporting CP showed signs of tiredness in players like Declan Rice, as they had to work extremely hard to get over the line.
Photo by Chris Brunskill/Fantasista/Getty Images
On top of that, injuries are also a concern for Mikel Arteta.
Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard and Jurrien Timber are all doubts heading into the game after missing training on Thursday.
That combination of fatigue and fitness issues could make things very difficult for Arsenal in the early kick-off on Saturday.
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Prediction time! What do you think the score will be when Arsenal take on Bournemouth?
Credit: Getty Images/Steve Bardens Arsenal need to find a way to beat Bournemouth
Even with those challenges, this is a game Arsenal simply cannot afford to lose.
A win would take the Gunners 12 points clear of Manchester City in the Premier League table, albeit their title rivals will have two games in hand.
That would put enormous pressure on Pep Guardiola’s side as they go into their game against Chelsea on Sunday.
For that reason, Arsenal have to find a way to get the job done. It may not be easy, especially given the circumstances, but this is where title-winning teams step up.
If the leaders can overcome their disadvantage and still win, it would be a huge statement in the title race.
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