I somehow doubt your first sentence because the Arsenal of this season have shown some great difference from the Arsenal of previous seasons judging from their psychology. They seem to have done a wonderful work to improve their winning mentally and overall game management. Previous seasons, Arsenal will start the league well, maintain the top position as the league progresses but before the end of the season they will be struggling to even qualify for champions league. This season they have remained within the top position almost throughout the season, so they deserve some commendation irrespective of how this season ends.
I think Arsenal's performance recently is highly commendable, they play matured football and their communication is very good. They really impressed me against Brighton two days ago, especially the last goal that they scored amidst playing their defensive game. They are at the top of the table now and deserve every respect and regard. Its not easy at all, the competition is tough. There is no small team in England now, every team struggles for recognition and a higher place on the table.
Its no joke out there and its a lot of hard work to achieve such positive results, so its not out of place to give the team all accolades as they surely deserve it.