Arsenal’s Match Against Chelsea FC is for More than Pride
While Chelsea FC have not technically won the Premier League title just yet, the Premier League race has all but been decided. Sporting a ten point lead with six remaining matches, Chelsea’s magic number sits at nine.
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Nine more points — whether they come in wins, draws or Arsenal draws and losses — would give Chelsea their first Premier League title since 2009-2010. Knowing this also brings about the sad reality revolving around the London Derby on Sunday.
With such a major points gap, this weekend’s Arsenal vs Chelsea — or Arsene vs Jose if you prefer — is for nothing more than pride. Since Jose Mourinho came waltzing into Arsene Wenger’s life back in 2004, the results have not been good for the Frenchman.
In fact, Arsenal have failed to win a Premier League title since Jose Mourinho’s first season in charge at Stamford Bridge. While the Gunners inability to top the table can be solely blamed on the arrival of Mourinho, the “Great One” hasn’t done the North London side any favors.
With Twelve matches between the two managers, Arsene Wenger will look to put an end to the goose egg in his win column. During these twelve matches, seven have been won by Mourinho’s Chelsea while the other five have been draws.
Arsenal’s 2-0 loss at Stamford Bridge earlier this season also added to the misery for Wenger who has seen his Arsenal only score six times against his biggest rival. The rivalry was only intensified after a post-game shoving match took place between the two last time out.
While Mourinho has tried to play down the rivalry between the two during a recent interview, there is no doubt in any fans mind of the animosity between the two managers.
When asked to describe his relationship with Arsene Wenger, Mourinho would choose to remain mum on the subject.
"“I don’t describe… It’s not important. The only thing that matters on Sunday is the football game.”"
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For most matches of this caliber, an almost sure end to the Premier League title race would only reduce the value of the game. However, with possibly the biggest manager rivalry in all of soccer also on hand, nothing is lost from this Sunday’s London Derby.
With an over ten year old zero staring the Frenchman dead in the eyes, Arsene Wenger will be looking for his side to put an end to that goose egg. While the Premier League title will likely evade the Gunners yet again, a victory over Jose Mourinho will surely ease the pain.
However, waiting for Arsenal on the pitch will be the best side in the Premier League this season. With the Premier League title certainly in hand, Jose Mourinho will be looking to heap the pain on his managerial rival.
Fewer matches in football carry this amount of importance while mattering not in the Premier League’s title chase. The only thing to play for in this match is pride. Yet, the match still carries with it a presence and importance unlike anything seen this season.
With Pride on the line for not only the supporters and the clubs, but for the managers as well, expect a classic London Derby on Sunday. The match is for more than pride. Its Arsenal vs Chelsea. Its Wenger vs Mourinho. While the pride of winning is good, defeating their London rival is all the sweeter.