Arsenal crowned Premier League champions after 22years wait

Arsenal have been crowned Premier League champions, ending a 22-year wait for the English top-flight title after Manchester City were held to a 1-1 draw by Bournemouth on Tuesday night.

The result confirmed the Gunners’ triumph, with Mikel Arteta’s side finally going all the way after finishing second in each of the past three seasons, and enduring a six-year trophy drought across competitions.

Arsenal had moved to the brink of glory a day earlier with a narrow 1-0 victory over already relegated Burnley, a result that extended their lead to five points over City and effectively sealed the title race.

Manchester City, who needed a win to keep the race alive until the final day, were instead frustrated by a resilient Bournemouth side whose impressive form has now stretched to 17 league games unbeaten, securing European football for the first time in their history.

The Cherries, under Andoni Iraola, continue to defy expectations, with their growing momentum also pushing them into contention for Champions League qualification.

For Arsenal, the triumph represents the culmination of a season defined by consistency, defensive resilience, and a strong response to setbacks, including a crucial bounce-back run of four straight clean-sheet victories following their defeat to City last month.

Meanwhile, City’s collapse comes amid growing uncertainty surrounding manager Pep Guardiola, who has been widely linked with a possible departure at the end of the season after a decade of dominance at the Etihad Stadium.

The Spanish tactician, who has won six Premier League titles, watched his side fall short despite a late equaliser from Erling Haaland, which ultimately came too late to revive their title hopes.

City’s inability to capitalise on key moments earlier in the season, including a 3-3 draw at Everton, proved costly as Arsenal maintained their advantage to the finish line.

Bournemouth took the lead through a stunning strike from Eli Junior Kroupi, who set a new record for a teenager with 13 goals in his debut Premier League season, before City fought back late without success.

The result also strengthens Arsenal’s standing under Arteta, who now delivers the club’s first Premier League crown in over two decades, marking a significant milestone in their resurgence at the top of English football.

AFP