Arsenal's season is on the line this week, with two monumental fixtures in just five days. According to former Premier League striker Chris Sutton, this stretch is "season-defining" for Mikel Arteta's side, who need to rediscover their spark.

The Gunners head into this critical period in a concerning slump, having lost three of their last four matches across all competitions. The immediate challenge is securing their Champions League future; they host Sporting Lisbon on Wednesday, protecting a narrow 1-0 first-leg lead for a spot in the semi-finals against Atletico Madrid.

Sutton warns that the team must avoid the temptation to look ahead. "They have to concentrate on the game tonight," he stressed. "They could do with a win, of course, but they could do with a performance - especially in that final third. It all just seems a bit flat and clunky at this moment in time."

A convincing victory would provide crucial momentum before Sunday's colossal Premier League showdown at Manchester City, a match that could decide the title race. "The game on Sunday is absolutely enormous," Sutton said, while also expressing belief in Arsenal's resilience. "It wouldn't be a great surprise to me if Arsenal went to the Etihad and got a result... they just need to hold their nerve."

For Arsenal fans, it's a nervy but thrilling moment. Success in these two games would reignite their charge for glory, making this one of the most pivotal weeks of their campaign.