Following their disappointing loss to Atletico Madrid in the Europa League, Arsenal’s season is essentially over. Their season is just about winning as many games for Arsene Wenger before he leaves. This one, in particular, will be big as it is his last home game as Arsenal manager. The Arsenal players will want to see Wenger win his last home match as Arsenal boss, so they’ll be as motivated as can be for this match.
Burnley have had their best league season in decades and will guarantee themselves a European journey next season with one more point. They could still finish above Arsenal but will need to beat the Gunners at the Emirates to do so. They’ll be desperate to beat Arsenal, a team that has beaten the Clarets in stoppage time in each of their last three meetings. They’ll hope to turn their luck against the Gunners around and come away with a win.
Team News
Arsenal will be without Laurent Koscielny after his devastating Achilles tear in midweek against Atletico. They’ll also be without Santi Cazorla through his own Achilles nightmare and Mohammed Elneny with an ankle injury.
The Clarets will be without Ben Mee, Scott Arfield, Robbie Brady, and Steven Defour as they all have injuries that could keep them out the rest of the season. They could get Chris Wood back as he fitness will be decided closer to Sunday, according to Physioroom.com.
Key Players
Arsenal: Pierre Emerick-Aubameyang
Burnley have one of the best defences in the league, so Arsenal will have to be at their best to break them down. They do have one of the best strikers in the world to help them do that in Aubameyang. The Gabonese striker has been on fire since joining Arsenal and has shown he can cut in the Premier League. With the Europa League over, Mesut Ozil will likely play on Sunday and the combination of Ozil and Aubameyang is about as good a combination to break down a defence as there is in the Premier League.
Burnley: Ashley Barnes
Burnley’s defence has been their strength under Sean Dyche, but they have found themselves a few reliable goalscorers over the years. Barnes has been one of those reliable scorers, especially this season. He and Wood lead the team with nine goals apiece. Barnes is also incredibly valuable as a physical presence up top, helping them relieve the pressure that comes with their bunkering defensive tactics. If Burnley are to win this match, it is likely that Barnes will have to play a big part in it.
Prediction
Arsenal have been awful away from home, but they have been fantastic at the Emirates this season. Their attack is good enough to break down Burnley’s defence and it will be a surprise if they don’t win.
Prediction:Â A 4-1 win for Arsenal
