Arsenal Cannot Afford PSG Distraction Against Burnley Tonight

It is impossible for Arsenal supporters not to think about what lies ahead.

A Premier League title remains within touching distance, while a Champions League final against PSG now looms on the horizon later this month in Budapest.

Add in yesterday’s injury scare involving Ousmane Dembele and naturally conversations among supporters have already started drifting towards Europe once again.

But before Arsenal can think about any of that, there is still huge business to take care of tonight against Burnley.

Arteta Will Demand Complete Focus

Mikel Arteta has repeatedly spoken throughout the season about the importance of focus, consistency and emotional control.

Tonight will test all three.

On paper, Burnley may appear ideal opponents for Arsenal given their relegation and poor away form, but title races have a habit of punishing even the smallest lapse in concentration.

The Gunners know victory would move them five points clear of Manchester City before Pep Guardiola’s side travel to Bournemouth tomorrow night.

Any dropped points, however, would immediately swing momentum back towards the reigning champions.

That is why Arteta will almost certainly demand his players block out all external noise surrounding PSG and the Champions League final.

(Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

Arsenal Must Handle The Pressure

The reality is that elite teams compartmentalise.

Arsenal cannot afford to mentally drift towards Budapest while there is still a Premier League title to be won.

Supporters may dream ahead, that is natural, but inside the dressing room the message will surely remain simple: Burnley first, everything else later.

The Emirates atmosphere tonight is expected to be intense, emotional and nervous all at once, because everyone connected to the club understands just how much is now at stake.

But first, If Arsenal can handle the pressure once again and secure another huge three points, then attention can very quickly turn back towards Europe.

The Gunners must avoid distraction and finish the job in front of them tonight.

Can Arsenal remain fully focused and take another major step towards Premier League glory?

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

ADMIN COMMENT

So here are some simple rules which I must insist commenters follow….

You agree not to give any personal abuse to other Arsenal fans. Everyone is allowed to hold their own opinions even if you disagree with them. It COSTS NOTHING TO BE POLITE TO OTHER ARSENAL FANS.

CALLING ALL ARSENAL FANS! Anyone who would like to contribute an Article or Video opinion piece on JustArsenal, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us through this link…