Intriguing battle for the 4th spot between Gunners and Spur
The prestige of competing in Europe and specifically in the Champion League is an integral part of the English Premier League end of the season games. Other tangible rewards include financial gains from staying in the Premier league and the ability to attract the world's best talent.
Conte on winning waysChelsea, Spurs, Arsenal, and Manchester United are all vying to be the last two qualifying spots behind Liverpool and Manchester City. The race is made more interesting by the games in hand, and the competing teams are again to face one another in the last few games left in the current season.
These clubs have had huge wage bills but little to show for their efforts in recent years. And recent results have exposed the flaws of each of these squads. However, the most intriguing battle is between Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur.
How are Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur's odds for the fourth-place?
The Gunners currently have a two-point advantage over their North London rivals Tottenham. But there are still 12 points up for grabs.
After a five-year absence from European football's top tables, Arsenal is determined to get back in the Premier League's top 4. They may be able to push their way past London rivals Chelsea, to third, with Tottenham still clinging to their tails.
By early March, Mikel Arteta's turnaround at the Emirates appeared to be in full swing. The Gunners were on a scorching run of form, having finished outside the top four for five seasons running - their longest run since the early 1980s.
The problems that plagued previous seasons included defensive stability, shot creation, and cohesive identity, which seemed to be resolved.
However, Arsenal's form has been inconsistent, with three defeats in the last four being followed by statement wins over the top four rivals, Chelsea, Manchester United, and West Ham.
Now, Mikel Arteta's team will only have Premier League fixtures and no European fixtures to focus on in the next few weeks, and they will need to work hard to hold on to the fourth place.
On the other hand, the Spurs are still chasing a top-four finish, and the north London derby against Arsenal is around the corner.
They have the chance to overcome Chelsea as well but would be happy to settle for fourth if Antonio Conte can get them there.
Spurs appeared to be in great form, winning four games on the spin, including a win over Villa of 4-0 and a 5-1 win against Newcastle United.
Despite a comfortable win over Leicester City on Sunday, insipid showings against Brighton and Brentford have handed the initiative back to Arsenal.
On May 13, the two sides will face off in one of London's most anticipated derbies. This could have significant implications for the Champions League qualification.