Arsenal stand on the brink of what could be the greatest season in the club's storied history, but can they complete the job? With only four matches remaining—three in the Premier League and the Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain—Mikel Arteta's squad has a sensational double in their sights.
Following Manchester City's slip-up at Everton last weekend, the Opta supercomputer now gives the Gunners an 85.2 per cent probability of securing their first league title in 22 years. A victory over struggling West Ham United this weekend would further bolster those already favourable numbers.
But what about the Champions League? PSG, the defending champions, have appeared unstoppable in the knockout rounds, yet the supercomputer surprisingly favours Arsenal, giving them a 54.6 per cent chance of lifting the trophy. Combining both probabilities yields a 46.5 per cent chance of completing the double.
These figures are immensely reassuring for Arsenal supporters, particularly when considering the supercomputer's projection that the club will end the season without silverware: a mere 6.7 per cent. This suggests the long trophy drought should finally end.
However, as Opta themselves caution, these percentage chances are calculated independently. Factors such as emotional reactions to losing one competition, injuries, fitness, and team selection could still have unpredictable impacts. Yet, had these odds been offered at the season's start, Arsenal fans would have been overjoyed.
After a brief blip, the Gunners have magnificently regained momentum, and it would be a shock to see them stumble against West Ham on Sunday. Nevertheless, if the underdogs manage a surprise and Manchester City defeat Brentford, the Premier League title race would remain very much alive.
There is also the possibility that City drop more points, allowing Arsenal a stress-free lead-up to the Champions League final in Budapest. A few Parisian eyebrows might be raised at the supercomputer's prediction for the showpiece, which on paper pits an unstoppable force against an immovable object. Time will tell whether the algorithm's calculations age like fine wine or sour milk.
