After 22 Years in the Wilderness, Arsenal Are Champions of England Again

Manchester City, who had dominated English football in six of the previous eight seasons, needed a win to reduce Arsenal’s lead to two points and keep the title race alive heading into the final day of the campaign. However, they fell behind in the 39th minute when Bournemouth’s Junior Kroupi struck to give the visitors the advantage.

City pushed for a response and eventually found an equaliser deep into stoppage time through Erling Haaland, but it came too late to produce the winner required to extend the title fight.

The final whistle sparked celebrations among Arsenal supporters outside the Emirates Stadium, with more expected when the team travels to face Crystal Palace on the final day of the season.

Midfielder Declan Rice added to the jubilant scenes, posting a celebratory message on social media alongside a photo with teammates, writing: “I told you all … it’s done.”

The triumph marks Arsenal’s 14th English league title, moving them further behind only Liverpool and Manchester United—both on 20 titles—in the all-time standings. It is also their first league crown since the historic 2003–04 “Invincibles” season under Arsène Wenger, when the club went unbeaten throughout the campaign.

Manager Mikel Arteta, who took charge in 2019, becomes the first former Premier League player to win the competition as a manager. The victory also ends a run of near misses for Arsenal, who finished runners-up in recent seasons as Manchester City and Liverpool dominated the title race.

Arsenal’s success this season has been built on defensive discipline and set-piece efficiency. They have conceded the fewest goals in the league and recorded a high number of clean sheets, while also leading the division in goals scored from set pieces.

City manager Pep Guardiola admitted disappointment but congratulated Arsenal, saying the title was “well deserved,” while reflecting on a demanding campaign for his side.

Arsenal will now look to complete a historic double as they prepare for a UEFA Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain on May 30, aiming to secure their first European crown and cap what could become their greatest season in modern history.

Last updated May 29, 2026, 11:37 AM