Magic Numbers are BACK

An annual tradition unlike any other

Hello and welcome to YEAR THREE of Magic Numbers.

If you’re one of the many, many fans of this tradition, you already know how this works. But for those who don’t, quick explainer:

Magic Numbers is a sort of points differential measure. It takes into account not just points Arsenal can gain, but also points their opponents could lose. The number you see next to each other PL club, then, is the number of points needed to guarantee a finish ahead of them on points (Please note: I said ahead. Yes, Arsenal could finish level on points and ahead of these clubs. That’s not what I’m measuring here).

So, example: Let’s say Arsenal’s magic number to finish ahead of Crystal Palace is 15. That week, Arsenal win (+3) and Crystal Palace draw (+2, for the two points they’ve dropped). The magic number would move to 10. Got it? Good.

Other things I want to be very clear I’m not doing: Projecting or predicting anything. Also, despite Arsenal being third on the table, this season I’ll include everyone.

Now, show me that beautiful chart!

I’ll update this weekly throughout what’s left of the season. Stay tuned for updates every match week!