In April 1999, Manchester United’s victory against Arsenal in a crucial FA Cup semifinal was a turning point that made Sir Alex Ferguson’s team believe that they could achieve the unprecedented feat of winning the Treble. Similarly, Manchester City’s impressive 4-1 win against Arsenal on Wednesday has given Pep Guardiola’s side the same confidence and belief.
By upsetting Arsenal, who had been in first place in the Premier League standings for 28 matchdays as opposed to City’s four, City has taken complete control of the race for the championship. Despite playing two less games, they are only two points behind the Gunners and are still in second place. If they win both games, they will have a four-point advantage, but because of their considerably better goal differential, they can still finish first with two draws.
The Treble is now within their grasp, as they are only 11 games away from making history and taking away the “unique” status that has so far been enjoyed solely by United as the only English club to have won the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League in the same season.
United have the chance to halt City’s march and ensure that Old Trafford remains the only English ground to house those three trophies at the same time, by beating their neighbours in the FA Cup final on 3 June. It seems that City’s dominance and form are making the possibility of a Treble more likely, according to the statement. Arsenal had a chance to disrupt City’s progress, but they were unable to do so.
It’s true that Real Madrid are a tough opponent and could be the biggest obstacle in Manchester City’s quest for the treble. However, if City manage to overcome Madrid, they will likely be seen as strong favorites to lift the Champions League trophy in Istanbul, especially considering their impressive form in the competition this season.
However, football is unpredictable and anything can happen on the big stage, so it’s important for City to remain focused and take it one game at a time.