The international break is now over and the coutdown to the return of the Premier League - and the business end of the season can commence. And what a return to action we've got.
The title race is heating up with one point separating Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City. While behind them there's a real battle for Champions League football with Aston Villa and Tottenham and maybe even Manchester United in the hunt.
When it comes to the title, all the action is on Sunday, with a mouthwatering set of fixtures. Liverpool take on Brighton, before Manchester City play host to Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium.
It's all eyes back on the Premier League, but there is also attention on the transfer window, which is just around the corner now. For all the latest news and rumours on Monday, keep it locked on our Arsenal live blog right here for all the latest news as it happens.
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End of season odds
There are always a few gambling specials that catch the eye as the Premier League heads towards the business end of the season.
And this year is no different.
Fancy Arsenal to go the rest of the season unbeaten? Or the title to eb won on goal difference? Betfair has you covered.
Betfair - Premier League title race specials
Arsenal to be unbeaten in each of their remaining PL matches 7/1
Premier League title to be decided on goal difference 7/1
Arsenal to win the Premier League title on goal difference 33/1
Arsenal to win each of their remaining PL matches 66/1
Injury latest
Arsenal are hopeful that injuries to Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli and Gabriel Magalhaes are not serious and that all three will be avaiable for selection on Sunday.
The Gunners will want to have the strongest squad possible available when they take on Man City in a crunch title clash at the Etihad Stadium.
Here's what Kaya Kaynak has had to say in his piece today.
Gyokeres priority
Viktor Gyokeres is a key transfer target for Arsenal this summer, football.london understands.
There has been plenty of talk around the striker, who has amassed a whopping 50 goal involvements for Sporting CP this season already.
And now, if football.london sources are correct - and we pride ourselves on our information - the rumours are true and that Arsenal are indeed interested and have been scouting the former Brighton and Coventry man.
Double Man City injury blow
Man City have suffered a double setback ahead of the weekend's game with Arsenal.
John Stones was forced off injured during England's draw with Belgium, while Kyle Walker, who went off in the Brazil game, played no part whatsoever.
With question marks over Manuel Akanji, Kevin De Bruyne and Ederson already, Pep Guardiola has a major selection headache.
Bidding war
There could be a summer bidding war for Arsenal wonderkid Mika Biereth.
The striker has been in fine form for Sturm Graz on loan this season, scoring 14 goals and providing six assists - 20 goal involvements in 26 matches.
Sturm Graz want to sign him permanently, but they could be priced out fo a deal, given his form, with Arsenal hoping for a bidding war for the 21-year-old, as reported by Now Arsenal.
He could provide Mikel Arteta with much needed funds for the sujmemr transfer window.
'Arsenal can beat Man City at Etihad'
More from Mikael Silvestre, who believes Arsenal can beat Man City at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday.
Speaking to bettingexpert.com the former defender said:
Arsenal knows the level of City. They're still treble winners and they're still a team capable of beating anybody and, especially everybody, I should say, in the Premier League. But on the other side, Arsenal's confidence has grown and the belief should be much higher than in past seasons. At this moment in time, we're at the end of March and last season at the same time, the team wasn't as confident and as strong as they are now.
So going there and facing City, I think if they can stick to their game plan and stick to their cards well, they can overcome City's obstacles and win the game. A win or a draw would be a good result. I think they are capable of doing it. If you look at the table and the points and what's remaining after that, you want to avoid defeat. Arsenal won't be going there for a draw. If it happens to be a draw, fine. A draw or a win would be a good result.
Rice and Rodri battle will be key
Former Arsenal defender Mikael Silvestre believes the midfield battle between Rodri and Declan Rice will be a deciding factor during Manchester City's clash against Arsenal.
Speaking to bettingexpert.com Silvestre said: "There are match winners on both sides but in terms of controlling the game, the battle in midfield between Rodri and Declan Rice is one of the key elements. Whoever performs better will create a better chance for their team to win the game."
"This season Kyle Walker has been tremendous. He's been a key part of the defence for City. So it's a loss but they can readjust. They've got enough backup. They've got a good bench and they can cope with Walker's absence."
Arsenal tipped to win title
Brazil legend Rivaldo has also had his say on the Premier League title race, with the 51-year-old admitting Arsenal are favourites.
Speaking to Betfair, Rivaldo said:
Arsenal and Man City are both trying to win the Premier League and Champions League. As a player, it's very difficult to focus on one competition ahead of the other, because you're not sure that if you pick one, you'll be champion and succeed in it.
Last season, they were doing very well and at the end of the campaign they started to lose some games and let City take the trophy from their hands. This season, I believe they have a strong enough squad to keep competing in the league and in Europe.
If they continue to play the same way they have been playing, the same way they have been playing in the Premier League, they will be able to win titles.
The Premier League is, in my opinion, the toughest and strongest league in football, so if Arsenal are first in the table it's for a reason. Whoever is first in the Premier League has a great chance of winning the Champions League.
Arsenal are among the favourites for me. However, we know how football is, the favourites are not always the champions, a lot of things can happen in football, you have to be focused, as it was last season - in a moment of carelessness, they lost the Premier league trophy.
'Arsenal can go far in Champions League'
Ballon d'Or winner and Brazil legend Rivaldo has claimed that Arsenal's resilience can win them the Champions League.
Speaking to Betfair, Rivaldo said: "This season's Champions League is very exciting and every team in the quarter-finals is capable of winning the tournament.
"Manchester City are worthy favourites but, for me, Barcelona also stand out after their victory over Napoli in the round of 16. Many fans doubted Barcelona, but they reached the quarter-finals in great style.
"Then there is Arsenal. They knew it would be a difficult tie against Porto, and only squeezed through on penalties, but the Gunners' resilience until the end shows that they are a strong team that can go very far in this Champions League."
City vs Arsenal not decisive
Titles will not be won in March but they can be lost.
Not that Sergio Aguero thinks like that. With manchester City set to face off against Arsenal this Easter Sunday, it's a crucial clash in the Premier League title race.
Aguerop said, speaking to Stake: "I'm ranking it one of the top encounters of the season, no doubt. That being said, this year we have not two but three contenders for the title, and they all have challenging fixtures. I'm confident in City's victory but it won't be a decisive match – other games will also tilt the scales."
Silvestre verdict
Former Arsenal defender Mikael Silvestre has had his say on this weekend's clash between Man City and Arsenal.
And he does not think the Gunners will be scared of taking on the Premier League champions.
Speaking to bettingexpert.com he said: "Arsenal know the level of City. They're still treble winners and they're still a team capable of beating anybody and, especially everybody, I should say, in the Premier League.
"But on the other side, Arsenal's confidence has grown and the belief should be much higher than in past seasons. At this moment in time, we're at the end of March and last season at the same time, the team wasn't as confident and as strong as they are now.
"So going there and facing City, I think if they can stick to their game plan and stick to their cards well, they can overcome City's obstacles and win the game.
"A win or a draw would be a good result. I think they are capable of doing it. If you look at the table and the points and what's remaining after that, you want to avoid defeat.
"Arsenal won't be going there for a draw. If it happens to be a draw, fine. A draw or a win would be a good result."
Akanji injury
Manchester City have suffered an injury blow ahead of the Premier League meeting with Arsenal at the weekend.
Manuel Akanji has pulled out of international duty with Switzerland and is suddenly a doubt for the weekend's crucial Premier League title showdown.
Ramsdale selection
Glen Johnson would like to see Aaron Ramsdale between the sticks for the first game of Euro 2024. Ramsdale has not playe much for Arsenal this season, while regular number one Jordan Pickford is a regular starter for Everton, but Johnson does not seem bothered by that.
Speaking to Betfred, Johnson said: "I’d go with Aaron Ramsdale in goal. I’d have Joe Gomez and John Stones at centre-back and I’d have Reece James and Ben Chilwell at right-back and left-back respectively. You could have Lewis Dunk in there ahead of Joe Gomez, but I’ll stick with Gomez for now.
“In midfield, I’ll go with Declan Rice, Jude Bellingham and have Phil Foden in there too. I’d then have a front three of Cole Palmer, Harry Kane and Bukayo Saka. It’s pretty attacking, but you’ve got to score to win tournaments.”
Gyokeres likely
Viktor Gyokeres is a name that is persistently linked with Arsenal.
And it seems the Gunners are his most likely destination this summer, if they can stump up the £86million Sporting CP will be demanding for him.
Betfair - Viktor Gyökeres next club odds
Arsenal - 2/1
Milan - 11/4
Chelsea - 4/1
Referee appointed
The referees for this weekend's game between Manchester City and Arsenal have been announced.
And look away Gunners fans, because there's a name you might not be too impressed with taking VAR duties...Jarred Gillett.
Birthday boy
It is the Arsenal manager's 42nd birthday today.
All he wants for his birthday is a clean bill of health from the international break, as the Gunners prepare to take on Manchester City when Premier League action returns.
Happy birthday, Mikel.
Diomande offer
Arsenal have entered into a bidding war with Chelsea to sign Sporting CP defender Ousmane Diomande. That is according to the Sun, via Record, who state that Mikel Arteta is ready to match Chelsea's offer of £51million for the centre-back.
However, as also reported, Sporting value Diomande at around £69million and are in no rush to sell as his contract does not run out until 2027.
Sergio Aguero makes Man City vs Arsenal prediction
Former Man City striker Sergio Aguero believes his old side can beat Arsenal on Sunday,
Speaking to Stake, Aguero said: "I'm ranking it one of the top encounters of the season, no doubt. That being said, this year we have not two but three contenders for the title, and they all have challenging fixtures. I'm confident in City's victory but it won't be a decisive match – other games will also tilt the scales."
Arsenal could hand Liverpool title boost
Liverpool could be handed a fixture run-in boost by Arsenal as the battle for the Premier League title continues.
When looking at the fixtures, it could be a tough April for all three of Arsenal, Liverpool and Man City, especially the Reds who are currently scheduled to finish the month with four successive away games in just 10 days between April 18 and April 27. Progress to the Europa League semi-finals and that will extend to five successive away matches in 15 days up until May 2.
When looking at the schedule, the Gunners may in fact help Jurgen Klopp's side if they progress past Bayern Munich into the Champions League semi-finals. All explained here.
Neville and three other pundits give definitive Arsenal title verdicts
Having missed out on the Premier League title last season, Arsenal will hope it’s a different story this time around. With 10 games of the league season to go, the final international break has provided a break from the pressures of competing at the top of the league.
But that will be straight back on when the Gunners travel to the Etihad Stadium next weekend. Ahead of that match, Arsenal are at the top of the table, ahead of Liverpool on goal difference and leading Manchester City by just one point. It is a race that looks set to go down to the wire.
So, what do pundits think will happen between now and the final whistle of the campaign? A number have had their say over the last few months; here is what just some of them have predicted.
Declan Rice to captain England vs Belgium
Declan Rice will enjoy a “pinch me” moment when he captains England on his 50th appearance for his country in Tuesday night’s friendly against Belgium.
The 25-year-old is set to start in midfield at Wembley to reach the milestone for his country.
“I think I have grown so much as a player and a person since I first came into the group at 19,” the Arsenal midfielder said.
“I was probably a bit of a nervous player when I first came into the England squad, but as time has gone on I’ve played more big games, more games at major tournaments. I have enjoyed every moment.
“Fifty caps, it is a pinch me moment, it will be an honour. On my 50th cap, to walk out at Wembley in front of my family and friends, it is a great honour, I’m a bit speechless.”
Ivan Toney challenge
England boss Gareth Southgate has challenged Ivan Toney to seize his opportunity against Belgium to prove he's ready for Euro 2024.
The role of Harry Kane's back-up in Germany is up for grabs, with Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Callum Wilson having previously filled the position. Now, it seems to be a straight contest between Aston Villa's Ollie Watkins and Brentford's Toney.
Watkins played the full match as he won his 10th cap against Brazil. Arsenal-linked Toney, who watched Saturday's 1-0 loss from the bench, will get his chance on Tuesday against Belgium. The 28-year-old, who looks set to leave Brentford this summer, earned his only cap so far as a substitute against Ukraine last year.
Southgate said: "You can't hide that fact. He knows. It would be his first start, so you've got to bear that in mind as well. But with England that's the landscape, you don't get hundreds of opportunities. I think every player recognises that's the world we live in.
"But he's a confident guy, he comes in on the back of a good run of form with his club. He's going to be on the field on Tuesday, no question."
Bayern Munich release Harry Kane injury hint
Harry Kane has resumed light training with Bayern Munich after being released from the England squad ahead of Tuesday's friendly against Belgium.
Kane suffered an ankle injury in Bayern's Bundesliga victory over Darmstadt earlier this month and missed the Three Lions' defeat to Brazil at Wembley on Saturday. The 30-year-old was allowed to return to his club to continue his recovery and the German club published photographs on Monday of the striker participating in an individual fitness and ball work session, hinting that the forward is well on the way to recovery.
Arsenal will be monitoring Kane’s injury situation closely. The Gunners take on Bayern in the quarter-finals of the Champions League. The first leg takes place at the Emirates Stadium on April 9 before the return fixture is played at the Allianz Arena a week later.
Gunners linked with Forest centre-back Murillo
Arsenal are said to be interested in signing Nottingham Forest defender Murillo in the summer.
According to GIVEMESPORT, the 21-year-old Brazilian is beginning to attract interest from a number of clubs around Europe, and the Gunners are one of those keen on a potential move.
Forest are said to value the centre-back at around £50million, but after being docked four points for breaching the Premier League's Profit and Sustainability Rules, they may have to look into selling one of their top assets before the end of the year - with Morgan Gibbs-White also said to be of interest to the Gunners.
According to the report, the Gunners could be tempted by a move and Forest are aware that a number of teams are following the centre-back after joining the club in 2023 for a fee of around £15million - meaning a deal could result in a large profit on their books.
Nuno Tavares links
Arsenal defender Nuno Tavares, currently on loan at Nottingham Forest, has been linked with a move to Italian side Lazio.
According to Corriere dello Sport, Lazio boss Igor Tudor is a fan of Tavares and coached him when he was at Marseille last season. Igli Tare, Lazii's former director of football, also reportedly tried to sign Tavares for the Serie A side back in 2021 before the Gunners swooped in.
It remains to be seen what the future holds for Tavares but it looks likely he will leave Emirates Stadium in the summer.
Arsenal 'join three clubs' in battle for Italian youngster
AC Milan youngster Francesco Camarda is apparently gaining a lot of interest in the transfer market.
According to Calciomercato (via SportWitness), Arsenal and Chelsea have joined the likes of Man City and Man United in keeping tabs on the 16-year-old striker.
Having only recently turned 16, Camarda will now be allowed to sign his first professional contract - which can be up to three years. However, Milan will have to wait until the summer to ensure it counts as a deal from next season and can run until 2027 - if he were to sign now, it would only be allowed to run until 2026.
Milan have apparently reached an agreement in principle, but the clubs are still circling. However, he would not be allowed to join until the age of 18 due to Brexit rules.
Borussia Dortmund are also said to be keen, but Milan is apparently his priority for now.
Ashley Cole inducted into Premier League Hall of Fame 2024
Ashley Cole has today been named as the latest player to be inducted into the Premier League Hall of Fame.
The legendary left-back won three Premier League titles during a 15-season career at Arsenal and Chelsea. Renowned for his tireless running, Cole combined attacking prowess with formidable defensive qualities and is regarded as one of the league’s greatest-ever full-backs.
Cole was a crucial member of the Arsenal ‘Invincibles’ side that went unbeaten on the way to claiming the 2003/04 title. He made 385 Premier League appearances and won two-thirds (62 per cent) of the matches he played in. He contributed to 147 clean sheets, scored 15 goals and made 31 assists, underlining his ability at both ends of the pitch.
The Hall of Fame recognises and celebrates individuals who have an exceptional record of success and have made a significant contribution to the Premier League since its inception in 1992. It is the highest individual honour awarded by the league.
Cole said: “I’m honoured to join the Premier League Hall of Fame. It’s humbling and fulfilling to be rewarded at the end of your career. I went through my career just trying to give my best and be good enough. You take it day-by-day and game-by-game. As a young kid, you never dream of any of this and you just do it for the love of the game of football.
“I played for some fantastic clubs with incredible fans. Winning trophies with my boyhood club Arsenal and with Chelsea are amazing memories that will always be with me. It’s emotional to reflect because a lot of hard work has been put in. To join the Hall of Fame alongside the likes of Alan Shearer, Thierry Henry, Didier Drogba and Rio Ferdinand, I’m privileged to be in their company.”
Morgan Gibbs-White interest
Nottingham Forest star Morgan Gibbs-White is attracting interest from Arsenal.
The 24-year-old has nine goal contributions in 33 games for Forest this season and has been one of the club's best players. According to the Daily Star, Arsenal are tracking the Englishman ahead of the summer window opening.
According to the report, Mikel Arteta wants to reshape the squad once the transfer window reopens. Emile Smith Rowe, who has barely featured this campaign, could be sold and Gibbs-White is seen as someone who could take his place in the squad.
Gabriel Martinelli spotted
Gabriel Martinelli was spotted in Covent Garden on Sunday as the Arsenal star continues his recovery from injury.
Having initially been called up for the Brazil squad, Martinelli was ruled out of the friendlies after a cut he suffered against Sheffield United meant he missed the Gunners’ games with Brentford and Porto. There has been little said about the Brazilian although Mikel Arteta said the issue was only "little" before the clash with Brentford.
The 22-year-old shared a picture of himself and a friend wandering around Covent Garden in London on Sunday to his Instagram account. It remains to be seen if the Brazilian will be fit enough for Sunday's clash against Manchester City. Arteta will provide an update on Martinelli's fitness on Friday.
Ousmane Diomande talk
Arsenal are reportedly interested in Sporting CP defender Ousmane Diomande.
According to Record, the Gunners have been tracking the 20-year-old for some time and may look to try sign him this summer. Mikel Arteta is keen to sign a new defender when the window opens and Diomande is seen as someone who would fit the profile required, the report states.
Diomande reportedly has an €80milion (£68million) release clause in his deal that lasts until 2027. football.london understands Chelsea are also interested in the Ivory Coast star.
