Arsenal have been crowned Premier League champions for the first time in 22 years, after Manchester City could only manage a 1–1 draw against Bournemouth in what is expected to be Pep Guardiola’s penultimate match in charge.
The result on the south coast leaves Mikel Arteta’s side four points clear of City with just one round of fixtures remaining, meaning the Gunners will lift the trophy on Sunday away to Crystal Palace.
The build-up to Tuesday’s clash was dominated by reports that Guardiola is set to step down as City manager at the end of the season.
The Spaniard insisted before kick-off that speculation over his future had “absolutely zero” impact on his team’s preparations.
However, his side were outplayed and outfought by a brilliant Bournemouth outfit, who extended their unbeaten run to 17 matches.
Buoyed by a raucous home crowd, Cherries teenager Junior Kroupi curled in a sublime finish six minutes before half-time to give the hosts the lead.
Bournemouth goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic produced a vital save to deny Nico O’Reilly early in the second half, and although Erling Haaland scored a late equaliser, the hosts held on for a historic point.
Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola, who has announced he will leave the club at the end of the season, saw his side secure European football for the coming campaign, a magnificent achievement for the Spaniard in his final home game in charge.
Arsenal’s 22-year wait for the Premier League title is finally over.
