Sometimes in football, a loss can be the best thing that ever happens to a team. According to former Premier League defender Stephen Warnock, Arsenal's defeat to Manchester City on April 19 may have been just that—a blessing in disguise.

Since that away setback, Mikel Arteta's squad has been on fire, going unbeaten in four consecutive matches across both the Premier League and European competitions. Not only have they reclaimed the top spot in the title race, but they've also punched their ticket to the Champions League final—a remarkable turnaround that has fans buzzing.

"The pressure was off because people thought City had won the title," Warnock explained on BBC Match of the Day. "And now suddenly they are playing with a little bit more freedom."

That shift in expectations seems to have unlocked something special in the Gunners. With the spotlight moving to Manchester City, Arsenal have been able to focus on their game without the weight of the world on their shoulders. But Warnock warns that this newfound freedom won't last forever.

"The pressure will now be on Arsenal in the final because they've got to go and win it against a very good Paris Saint-Germain team," he added. "I think the pressure will also come back on them in the league too because everyone will say they have the advantage to go and win it. Then we will see where they are at."

Currently, Arsenal hold a five-point lead over City, though Pep Guardiola's side has a game in hand with just three matches remaining. For fans and players alike, this is the kind of drama that makes the Premier League—and now the Champions League—so thrilling. Whether you're gearing up for the final or just enjoying the ride, one thing is clear: Arsenal are playing with a newfound swagger, and it's paying off.