With 15 games remaining in Arsenal’s Premier League campaign at the time of writing, we all know that the job will not be done until we see the Gunners lift the trophy. For those of us of with a sensible disposition it was, of course, very premature for some pundits to be crowning Arsneal as champions-elect towards the backend of 2022. Man City were always going to make it tough, and we know that they will be primed to take it to the wire.

While Arsenal currently top the table, those who bet on the Premier League will inform you that sportsbooks still favour Man City. But there is only a marginal difference in the odds, and it’s difficult to argue with the belief of many Gunners that Arsenal perhaps should be considered favourites, particularly after the stirring comeback victory over Aston Villa last weekend.

We all know that Arsenal will have to be close to perfect to win a first title since 2004. While all games offer three points, there are some fixtures looming on the horizon that feel pivotal. Indeed, April, in particular, looks like the month when Arsenal will either rise to the challenge or fall away. Below, we present what we believe to be the five key fixtures that will make or break Arsenal’s 2022/23 Premier League title fate:

*Please note that fixtures are subject to change for TV scheduling

8th April – Liverpool (A)

It’s all-to-easy to mock Liverpool as a fallen force this season, given that Jurgen Klopp’s side has had some disastrous results. However, it should not be overlooked that Liverpool’s Anfield form is still intimidating, with the Reds having lost there just once this season (to Leeds United, remarkably). But you get the picture: Even if Liverpool were a mediocre side, which they are not, going to Anfield will always be one of the toughest tests in football. Getting anything out of this will be a boon for Arsenal.

15th April – West Ham (A)

A week after facing Liverpool, Arsenal will travel across London to face West Ham. On paper, this looks like an easier fixture for Arsenal, as West Ham have struggled to replicate last season’s form. However, we know from recent history that the Hammers can make things tough, particularly at home. Worse still, the fact that West Ham look to be in a relegation battle makes things worse for Arsenal. This is certainly not going to be a dead rubber for either side. Underestimate David Moyes’ side at your peril.

26th April – Manchester City (A)

Here it is: the fixture where broadcasters will be tripping over themselves to call the title decider. In truth, that can be hyperbole, and a lot will depend on the positions of the two teams going into the match. As mentioned, Arsenal have a very, very tough April, but that comes after a relatively easy March (Everton, Bournemouth, Fulham, Crystal Palace). If – and it’s big if – Arsenal can come into this game with clear daylight between themselves and City, then perhaps the pressure will be off Arteta and co. If not, it could be the title decider that the broadcasters so crave.

6th May – Newcastle United (A)

You may have noticed we’ve picked four away fixtures so far. It’s a good thing, then. that the Gunners have the best away record in the Premier League. However, it is self-evident that some of the toughest away fixtures have yet to come. A case in point is this fixture against Newcastle in early May. The Magpies, backed by a vocal Toon Army, have Champions League ambitions, and they have only lost once at home this season. A win here is likely to be massive.

28th May – Wolverhampton Wanderers (H)

For the neutrals, it would be fascinating to see the Premier League go to the final day. This, of course, should be a winnable game for Arsenal, but only in theory. Wolves have improved a lot of late, but they might need a result to avoid relegation. It’s worth pointing out that City go to Brentford on the last day of the season, so it feels like advantage to Arsenal here, should the title go to the wire. Of course, Arsenal must get there first, but there is a chance that the most pivotal game of the campaign is the last one, where Arsenal might lift the trophy in front of their home fans.