Arsenal could find themselves second in the league if Manchester City win their game in hand against Burnley on Wednesday night after they were beaten by their title rivals on Sunday afternoon.
The Gunners host Newcastle in Premier League action on Saturday evening at the Emirates Stadium and must win if they are to keep their title hopes alive with just 5 games remaining.
This weekend’s clash against the Magpies will be their 55th of a tiring season that could be extended if they make it to the Champions League final.
There is no rest for one of the best teams in Europe, but reports now state that Arteta has handed him team some extra time off after their loss to City.
Arteta has taken advantage of a rare six-day break between matches to allow his players time to rest and recover for the Newcastle game, news that will be welcomed by the whole squad.
This free midweek will particularly benefit first team players such as Declan Rice who have played nearly every minute of the season so far.
Arteta is well known for his training ground antics this season such as lighting a fire as he called for “pure fire” from his team. However, this recent change to allow his side to rest could hand his side a serious boost in the title race that may come down to the wire.