Arsenal have received a major boost ahead of the Champions League final after wrapping up the Premier League title on Tuesday, reducing the rest advantage of Paris Saint-Germain.
Title Secured Early
The Gunners sealed the Premier League crown on Tuesday following Manchester City's late draw with Bournemouth. This result confirmed Arsenal's first league title since 2004, meaning their end-of-season clash against Crystal Palace no longer carries the burden of expectation.
Had City won at the Vitality Stadium, the title race would have gone to the final day, heaping enormous pressure on Mikel Arteta's side to claim victory away at Crystal Palace. However, that is no longer the case, allowing the north Londoners to potentially rest key players ahead of the Champions League final.
At the very least, Arteta may now choose to bring on his substitutes earlier at Selhurst Park, even if he decides to name a full-strength starting XI in south London.
PSG's Rest Advantage Reduced
Paris Saint-Germain's domestic campaign concluded last weekend, with Luis Enrique's side clinching their 14th title despite a 2-1 defeat to Paris FC. This meant they would be granted an additional week's rest to prepare for the European showdown.
However, this seemingly considerable advantage has now been reduced, with the pressure lifted from Arsenal's shoulders heading into the final day. The Gunners can now enjoy some rest before travelling to Budapest.
Arteta's Historic Achievement
Arteta etched his name into the history books with the title triumph, becoming the first former Arsenal captain to guide the club to a Premier League crown. The Spaniard came agonisingly close in recent years, finishing as runners-up three consecutive seasons before finally tasting victory.
Speaking after the Gunners' 1-0 victory over Burnley, which ultimately sealed the trophy, Arteta acknowledged that something truly extraordinary was unfolding at the Emirates Stadium.
He said: "It's incredible to witness what we have created in this stadium. Obviously I have memories from the past, and the comparison is unbelievable to watch. I'm so proud of that."
"Today they have created something so special outside the stadium, in the stadium. Now we have set the standards that we are responsible for maintaining because we can provide that, and we know the outcome."
Reflecting on the significance of the upcoming European final compared to last year, Arteta added: "At that point, we knew that we were going to finish second and we didn't have another final to play. So, what I said to them - see you at Selhurst Park and then see you in Budapest, another two to play."
Arsenal will take on PSG in the Champions League final on Saturday, May 30 at the Puskas Arena in Budapest, Hungary. Kick-off is scheduled for 5pm and the match will be broadcast live on TNT Sports.
