Arsenal officially secured the Premier League crown after Manchester City’s 1-1 draw with Bournemouth on Tuesday, ending years of near misses under Mikel Arteta. After finishing as runners-up in three consecutive seasons, the North London side finally got over the line and now have the opportunity to close the campaign with 85 points.
Even with the title wrapped up, Arsenal’s mentality on the final day should not be underestimated. The Gunners have won each of their last 14 Premier League matches played on the final weekend of the season and have not lost a gameweek-38 fixture since 2005. Their recent dominance over Palace also strengthens confidence, with Arsenal winning eight of the last nine meetings between the clubs.
However, Crystal Palace have their own impressive final-day statistic. The Eagles are unbeaten in 12 top-flight final-day matches played at Selhurst Park, winning eight of them. That record will give the home crowd hope despite Palace’s recent struggles in the league.
Oliver Glasner’s side have shifted much of their attention toward Europe in recent weeks as they prepare for the Conference League final in Leipzig. That distraction has coincided with a six-match winless streak in the Premier League, and Palace have looked vulnerable defensively, conceding at least twice in each of their last five league outings.
Their most recent match ended in a 2-2 draw against Brentford, where Palace surrendered the lead twice. Defensive injuries have further complicated matters, with Chris Richards ruled out due to ankle ligament damage, while Maxence Lacroix and Chadi Riad are also fitness concerns heading into Sunday’s clash.
For Arsenal, squad rotation is expected as the Champions League final approaches. Several important players, including Bukayo Saka, William Saliba and David Raya, have been carefully managed in training, while Jurrien Timber remains doubtful. Midfielder Mikel Merino could return after resuming team training.
The expected changes may provide opportunities for fringe players such as Christian Norgaard, Noni Madueke and Gabriel Jesus. Arsenal’s depth has been one of the key reasons behind their consistency this season, and Arteta is likely to prioritize fitness preservation ahead of Europe’s biggest club match.
Team News
Crystal Palace Possible XI
Benitez; Canvot, Riad, Lacroix; Munoz, Lerma, Hughes, Sosa; Sarr, Johnson; Strand LarsenArsenal Possible XI
Kepa; Mosquera, Saliba, Gabriel, Hincapie; Odegaard, Norgaard, Lewis-Skelly; Madueke, Jesus, MartinelliPrediction
Crystal Palace 0-1 Arsenal
