Arsenal leads Man City by 5 points again: Ugly is fine, the important thing is to win the title!

The title race has always been a journey that tests character more than it showcases beauty. At a stage where every misstep could cost an entire season, the most important thing is not how you win, but whether you win at all.

Arsenal is living in that atmosphere. They are no longer explosive as they were at the start of the season, but they are still consistently earning points. The 2-1 victory over Chelsea last weekend is a prime example.

When effectiveness matters more than aesthetics

If one had to choose the most distinct characteristic of Arsenal's journey this season, it would be their ability to capitalize on set-pieces. Against Chelsea, both of their goals originated from corners, a weapon that has been honed for many years under Arteta.

The opening goal came from a familiar script: Bukayo Saka delivered a precise cross, Gabriel rose high for a tactical header towards the far post, and Saliba appeared at the right moment to slot the ball home. In the second half, Timber further emphasized the importance of defenders in set-piece situations by meeting Declan Rice's cross with a headed goal.

So far this season, Arsenal has scored 16 goals from corners in the Premier League, matching the record for the most corner goals in a single season. Nine of those have been decisive match-winning goals, an unprecedented number in the league's history. This is no longer a coincidence, but the result of meticulous preparation, from collective movement at the far post to putting pressure on the opposing goalkeeper.

Of course, there will be voices arguing that the league leaders need to show more in open play. Legend Patrick Vieira expressed higher expectations for a team leading both the Premier League and the Champions League. Ian Wright expressed concern about the nervous final minutes, especially when the opponent was down to 10 men. But amidst debates about "beautiful" or "ugly" football, what cannot be denied is that Arsenal is being extremely effective in both penalty areas.

Arteta has stated that football is decided in those areas. When you defend solidly in your own box and maximize opportunities in the opponent's box, you win. It may not be glamorous, it may not please everyone, but in a marathon race, effectiveness is always the foundation of success.

Raya keeps the title dream alive

If set-pieces provide the advantage, then David Raya is the one safeguarding that gain. The stoppage time against Chelsea was a classic nerve-testing moment for a title-chasing team.

In the moment Garnacho floated the ball into the box, time seemed to slow down. Joao Pedro and Gabriel collided, the ball hanging threateningly in the air. Arteta admitted after the match that his heart "almost stopped." And then Raya's hand appeared, pushing the ball away in a decisive, match-saving intervention.

Throughout the match, Raya constantly faced chaotic situations and unpredictable rebounds. When the game state became disorderly and the opponent pressed forward, the goalkeeper was the last line of defense. And Raya excelled in that role. A team cannot win a title without a goalkeeper who knows how to "earn points." Arsenal has experienced seasons where they fell short due to lapses in concentration. This season, despite Raya making a few mistakes, overall he provides significantly greater reassurance. His reflexes, positioning, and ability to maintain focus for the full 90 minutes help Arsenal stand firm in tight matches.

It's worth noting that Arsenal does not always have complete control of the game. Against Chelsea, even when the opponent was down to 10 men, they allowed the match to drift into an unpredictable state. Players like Zubimendi, Saliba, and Rice had moments of uncertain handling.

But it is precisely in such contexts that character is revealed. Arsenal did not panic or collapse. They withstood the pressure, maintained their defensive shape, and waited for the final whistle. This represents maturity compared to previous seasons, where pressure often caused them to drop points at crucial moments.

A 5-point lead over Man City is not an absolute safety shield. The opponent behind them is too experienced in late-season sprints. However, the important thing is that Arsenal is controlling its own destiny. They don't need to wait for anyone to slip up; they just need to continue doing what they have done for the past 29 rounds: win the matches they must win.

After 22 years of waiting since their last title win, a sense of nervousness is unavoidable. But looking at the reality, Arsenal remains the most consistent team of the season. They lead the table, maintain a safe gap, and possess a squad of sufficient quality to navigate the remaining journey.

At this stage, history does not ask if you won beautifully or won ugly. It only records the champion's name. And if they continue to secure all 3 points, whether through set-piece goals or breath-taking saves, Arsenal can absolutely rewrite history.