Arsenal have posed the question in a remarkably forceful manner, leaving Chelsea completely overwhelmed. It is now the responsibility of Liverpool and Manchester City to offer a response.
If the Gunners had any lingering doubts about their character, which were brought to the surface after a recent slump, those doubts were completely dispelled by an exceptional performance that left Chelsea utterly humiliated at the vibrant Emirates Stadium.
With a resounding 5-0 victory, Arsenal now sit three points ahead of Liverpool and four points ahead of Manchester City.
Additionally, their impressive goal difference of plus-56 essentially provides them with an extra point as a cushion.
Although Arsenal have played one more game than Liverpool and two more than City, the pressure of the scoreboard is crucial at this stage, and Arsenal currently hold the advantage in that regard.
Mikel Arteta’s team experienced a setback in their last home league game against Aston Villa, losing 2-0. The pressure and anticipation of the match, combined with the recent defeat of Liverpool against Crystal Palace, seemed to have affected their performance.
This was followed by a disappointing exit from the Champions League quarter-finals against Bayern Munich, which raised concerns that Arsenal might falter in a similar fashion to last season’s Premier League race.
However, Arsenal responded strongly with a hard-fought victory against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday. Their impressive performance in front of their jubilant fans should dispel any doubts about their character and determination in the remaining matches.
Furthermore, Arteta had the satisfaction of seeing one of his summer signings, who has faced intense scrutiny, prove himself as a valuable asset. This player was acquired from a struggling and dysfunctional Chelsea team, adding to his growing reputation as a talisman for Arsenal.