The Gunners' hopes of retaining the Premier League title were dashed on a fateful Saturday when they were defeated 1-0 by Nottingham Forest. Manchester City won their third consecutive league title and sixth in just six seasons, capping up an exciting race that saw the north London club dominate for eight months before veering off course in the most depressing way.
| # |
Club |
MP |
W-D-L |
GD |
PTS |
|---|
| 1 |
Manchester City |
35 |
27-4-4 |
+61 |
85 |
| 2 |
Arsenal |
37 |
25-6-6 |
+40 |
81 |
| 3 |
Newcastle United |
36 |
19-12-5 |
+35 |
69 |
| 4 |
Manchester United |
36 |
21-6-9 |
+11 |
69 |
With merely one match left for Arsenal, Manchester City's four-point lead has become insurmountable. The Gunners knew they needed to win that Saturday in order to extend their championship hopes for even one more day. Even if they had won, Manchester City would have had the chance to seal the deal against Chelsea at the bustling Etihad Stadium on Sunday.
![Erling Haaland]()
Erling Haaland, striker for Premier League club Manchester City
Manchester City faced an eight-point deficit at the start of April, potentially throwing doubt on their title hopes. However, they went on an incredible winning streak, winning 11 straight games to jump Arsenal in the standings. Meanwhile, Arteta's men disintegrated under rising strain, surrendering 2-0 leads against Liverpool and West Ham United before losing crucial points at home to previously relegated Southampton.
Arsenal's loss to Forest added to their woes, leaving them with just two wins in their past eight Premier League games. Manchester City, on the other hand, had their share of difficulties earlier in the season, failing to win more than three consecutive league games. Despite this, a stunning turnaround occurred in February, following a disheartening 1-1 tie with Forest. Pep Guardiola's team took their game to a whole new level, outclassing every single opponent and outscoring the opposition by an amazing 32 goals to a measly seven in their next 11 matches.
As the thrilling Premier League season comes to a close, Manchester City basks in the euphoria of their well-earned victory, while Arsenal must gather itself and consider the opportunities they wasted. We have been reminded once more of why football captivates our hearts and ignites our passions by the ups and downs, the thrilling comebacks, and the terrible losses.