By Seyi Gesinde
May 19, 2026
For the first time in 22 years, Arsenal F.C. are champions of England again.
Mikel Arteta’s side secured the 2025/2026 Premier League title on Tuesday night after defending champions Manchester City F.C. were held to a 1,1 draw by AFC Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium, a result that finally ended one of the longest title droughts in Arsenal’s modern history.
The result left Arsenal four points clear at the top of the table with only one match remaining, making it mathematically impossible for City to retain the crown they had dominated for years under Pep Guardiola.
It is Arsenal’s first league title since the legendary 2003/2004 “Invincibles” campaign under Arsène Wenger, and their 14th English top flight crown overall, behind only Manchester United F.C. and Liverpool F.C. in England’s all time title rankings.
For Arteta, the triumph represents the culmination of a painstaking rebuilding process that began when he took charge in 2019. The Spaniard had endured three consecutive second place finishes before finally guiding Arsenal back to the summit of English football.
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Arsenal’s title charge had gathered decisive momentum on Monday night when they defeated Burnley F.C. 1,0 to move five points clear and place immense pressure on City ahead of their trip to Bournemouth.
City, knowing only victory would keep the race alive until the final day, struggled for long periods on the south coast. Bournemouth took the lead through highly rated teenager Eli Junior Kroupi before Erling Haaland rescued a stoppage time equaliser that ultimately proved insufficient.
As the final whistle sounded at the Vitality Stadium, celebrations erupted among Arsenal players, staff and supporters. Reports indicated the squad watched the decisive match together before jubilant scenes broke out at the club’s training ground and around the Emirates Stadium in north London.
The title victory is being viewed as a defining moment in Arteta’s managerial career and potentially the beginning of a new era for Arsenal, whose young core including Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice, William Saliba and Martin Ødegaard matured into one of Europe’s most balanced sides this season.
Arsenal’s defensive solidity proved crucial throughout the campaign, while key victories late in the season helped them withstand City’s relentless pressure during the run in.
The Gunners will officially lift the Premier League trophy on Sunday after their final league fixture against Crystal Palace F.C. at Selhurst Park.
Remarkably, Arsenal’s season could still become even more historic. Arteta’s men are also preparing for the UEFA Champions League final later this month against Paris Saint-Germain F.C., with the club now dreaming of completing a stunning domestic and European double.
