Arsenal’s title challenge collapses as Brighton stun them 3-0 and hand City the league. The Gunners were outplayed and outclassed at home by the brilliant Seagulls, who dashed their hopes of ending their 18-year wait for a league trophy.
It was a scene of despair and disbelief for Arsenal as they saw their Premier League title challenge crumble with a 3-0 loss to Brighton at home.
Mikel Arteta’s men needed to win to keep their faint hopes alive after Manchester City’s emphatic win at Everton earlier in the day, but they failed to deliver as they were ripped apart by the superb Seagulls in the second half.
Brighton scored three goals in 20 minutes through Julio Enciso, Deniz Undav and Pervis Estupinan to seal a memorable victory. Arsenal had some opportunities in the first half, with Leandro Trossard hitting the woodwork and Bukayo Saka testing the keeper, but they lacked the urgency and quality to break down Brighton’s defence.
Mikel Arteta’s men now face the prospect of conceding the title to City next weekend if they lose at Nottingham Forest. Even if they avoid defeat, City can clinch the trophy with a win over Chelsea on Sunday. Arsenal were at the top of the table for most of the season, but their challenge has faded away, crushed by City’s unstoppable form.
The mood at the Emirates Stadium was sombre after the final whistle. Many fans had already left, while others stayed to applaud the team despite the bitter end. This will be a hard defeat to swallow, but Arsenal should not forget the progress they have made this season.
