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Arsenal clinch Premier League title after two-decade drought
Mikel Arteta's side secured the 2025-26 Premier League crown, overcoming Manchester City's challenge to end a 22-year title wait. The victory marks the end of three consecutive near-misses for the Gunners.
Summer signings prove pivotal in title charge
Arsenal's squad overhaul last summer played a decisive role in their success. With Liverpool's depth praised during their dominant 2024-25 campaign, the Gunners invested heavily, bringing in eight new players while losing only midfielder Thomas Partey.
Striker Viktor Gyökeres arrived from Sporting for £64 million, addressing fans' long-standing demand for a clinical number nine. Midfield reinforcement came in the form of Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad, while defender Piero Hincapié joined on loan from Bayer Leverkusen. Noni Madueke and Eberechi Eze also bolstered the squad after moves from Chelsea and Crystal Palace, respectively.
The £250 million outlay, with minimal sales, initially drew scrutiny. However, the impact of these signings became clear as Arsenal progressed, culminating in the league title and a pending Champions League final.
Key moments define Arsenal's title-winning season
A dramatic 93rd-minute equalizer by Gabriel Martinelli against Manchester City in September set the tone. The draw, secured through substitutes Eze and Martinelli, denied City a statement win and narrowed the gap to early leaders Liverpool.
Injury-time drama continued a week later at Newcastle. After trailing and having a penalty overturned by VAR, Arsenal equalized in the 84th minute before Gabriel's 96th-minute winner. The victory, following Liverpool's slip at Crystal Palace, propelled Arsenal within two points of the top.
November's north London derby saw Arsenal take a commanding lead. A 3-1 win over Tottenham, capped by Eze's hat-trick, extended their advantage to six points after City's defeat at Newcastle.
City's stumble opens door for Arsenal
Manchester City's struggles in early 2026 proved critical. After failing to win any of their first four league games of the year, Guardiola's side saw their title defense falter. Arsenal, despite minor setbacks, built a seven-point lead by April.
A thrilling 2-1 defeat at the Etihad in April could have derailed Arsenal's charge. However, a late confrontation between Erling Haaland and Gabriel, which nearly resulted in a red card, worked in Arsenal's favor. City's subsequent 3-3 draw at Everton, after squandering a lead, further dented their hopes.
Title sealed with resilience and VAR drama
Arsenal's final hurdle came at West Ham, where a resilient display was required to secure the title. Leandro Trossard's 83rd-minute goal appeared decisive until Callum Wilson's injury-time equalizer-later ruled out for a foul on David Raya-sparked VAR controversy.
Raya's earlier point-blank save from Matheus Fernandes and Gabriel's crucial block preserved Arsenal's lead. The VAR decision, dismissing West Ham's claims for a penalty, ensured the Gunners held on, sparking jubilant celebrations.
What's next for the champions
With the Premier League trophy secured, Arsenal now turn their focus to the Champions League final. The squad's depth and resilience, forged through a transformative season, position them as contenders on multiple fronts.
