Arsenal win first Premier League title in 22 years as Pep Guardiola falters at finish line

May 19, 2026 - 21:30

Arsenal have ended their long, arduous wait for a league title thanks to Manchester City’s failure to beat Bournemouth.

Fans in north London rejoiced at the final whistle with the Cherries holding City to a 1-1 draw at the Vitality Stadium, a result that ensures City cannot catch leaders Arsenal on the final day of the season.

Eli Kroupi scores goal against Manchester City — This goal was celebrated on the south coast and in north London

Kai Havertz celebrates scoring Arsenal's goal with (L) Gabriel Magalhaes during the Premier League match between Arsenal and Burnley — Arsenal’s win over Burnley on Monday night left City needing a win and now the Gunners are champions

Eli Kroupi Jr’s delightful curling effort in the first half gave Bournemouth the lead and despite Erling Haaland’s equaliser deep into second half stoppage-time, it wasn’t enough for City to take the title race to the final day.

Arsenal are an unassailable four points clear of their title rivals going into the final day.

The night belongs to Arsenal, who after finishing runners-up for three successive seasons, they are finally over the line with their 14th league title in their history.

Mikel Arteta‘s men face Crystal Palace away in their final game on 24 May before heading to Budapest to contest the Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain.

Champions once again

At long last, this generation of Arsenal players have written their own history as they claim their first Premier League title since the Invincibles campaign in 2003/04.

As mentioned, the Gunners mounted two serious title challenges in consecutive seasons against City but fell short against them in the 2022/23 and 2023/24 campaigns.

City put up a poor title defence last term, however, Arsenal were unable to take advantage as Liverpool came out on top.

But Liverpool’s woeful season has finally allowed Arsenal to finally be the bride.

Arsenal also spoil the farewell of outgoing City boss Pep Guardiola, who will leave the Etihad Stadium at the end of the season. Guardiola will be replaced by former Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca at the helm.