As the final fixture of the 2022/2023 Premier League season approaches, Arsenal’s hopes for a title have slipped out of their hands. Before their devastating 3-0 defeat at home to sixth-place, Brighton, the Gunners were one point away from first-place, which was stolen by Manchester City. Now, they sit four points away from the leading title while Manchester City sits comfortably with a game in hand.
Arsenal Vs. Brighton Recap:
Matchweek 36 came with an outstanding performance from visiting team, Brighton & Hove Albion. In the 20th minute of the game, Arsenal’s star boy and Brazilian winger, Gabriel Martinelli, was called off the field with an apparent ankle injury. The game went into halftime scoreless at the Emirates.
However, it was not until the 50th minute that 19-year-old, Enciso, scored a header after a scrappy cross from the Ecuadorian left-back, Estupinian. Things continued to go downhill for the Gunners when two more goals came into play within the last ten minutes of the game; one of which was in the 86th minute by Undav with a lovely chip over goalkeeper, Aaron Ramsdale. A final blow came in stoppage time after a deflected effort from Undav, who fell to the feet of Estupinian. Estupinian then smashed the ball into the back of the net to secure the win.
Reactions to Arsenal’s Loss
During Matchweek 29, Arsenal had an eight-point lead over Manchester City. The club blew past pre-season expectations, and the trophy was within arm’s length. Although, within almost ten games, their dreams of securing the trophy were crushed.
After Sunday’s fixture, former Manchester United right-back, Gary Neville, said, “That’s the end of Arsenal’s title race.” If Manchester City wins on Sunday, May 21 against struggling Chelsea, they will become champions for three consecutive seasons. This will also be the fifth time they’re considered reigning champions in six seasons.
Roy Keane commented, “Arsenal looks like they have run out of steam. It has been a good season. They have just come up short.”
Arsenal’s head coach, Mikel Arteta, looked disappointed in the post-game interview and said, “We have to apologize for the performance in the second half.” It was reported that fans appeared furious and were seen exiting the stadium before the game ended.
Where the Poor Form Began
Arsenal’s poor form began back in April when they had three consecutive ties with Liverpool, West Ham, and Southampton, who’s taken last-place. These three games were followed up by a 4-1 loss to current leaders, Manchester City. They temporarily bounced back by beating Chelsea and Newcastle in their next two games but within the last seven, Arsenal had only gained nine points out of a possible 21.
It had been 20 years since the Gunners won the Premier League title. Now, sitting in second place, Arsenal has managed to qualify for the Champions League for the first time since the 2015-2016 season.
Arsenal faces off against Nottingham Forest on Saturday, May 20, before finishing off their season with a home game on Sunday, May 28, against the Wolves.
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