City Closes Gap to Two Points

For much of the 2022-23 season, Arsenal looked destined to win their first title in 19 years. The Gunners spent a total of 248 days at the top of the Premier League table, the longest period any team has led the English top-flight without ultimately winning the title. At one point, Mikel Arteta's young Arsenal side held a commanding eight-point lead over the defending champions. However, a critical loss of form in the final stretch saw their advantage evaporate. The turning point began with a series of draws in April. Arsenal surrendered 2-0 leads in consecutive matches, drawing 2-2 against both Liverpool at Anfield and West Ham away from home, dropping four crucial points. While Arsenal faltered, Manchester City embarked on a relentless winning streak, ultimately compiling 12 consecutive league victories to surge past their rivals. This run was part of a dominant period where their last league defeat before securing the title was back in February. The most decisive encounter came on April 26, when Manchester City comprehensively defeated Arsenal 4-1 at the Etihad Stadium, a result that put Pep Guardiola's side firmly in control of the title race. Manchester City were officially crowned champions for the third consecutive season on May 20, without kicking a ball, after Arsenal lost 1-0 away to Nottingham Forest with three games still left to play. For Manchester City, the Premier League title was just the beginning. The victory formed the first leg of a historic treble, as they went on to win the FA Cup and their first-ever UEFA Champions League trophy.