With Ben White only fit enough to make the bench for a north London derby in which Mikel Arteta’s side were torn apart, Rob Holding’s early red card only made life more difficult.
Already short of defenders with Kieran Tierney ruled out for the rest of the season, Gabriel then went down injured in the 74th minute and was replaced by Nuno Tavares.
Holding will be suspended for Monday’s trip to Newcastle, a game Arsenal simply have to win.
Should Spurs overcome relegation-threatened Burnley on Sunday, they will be two points ahead of the Gunners before they even kick-off at St James’ Park.
A Harry Kane brace in the first-half had Arsenal reeling heading into the break, with Heung-min Son making matters worse seconds after the restart by adding a third.
Arteta’s side then finish what looks like a nervy end to the season with the visit of Everton.
