Arsenal's long-awaited Premier League title celebrations reached a climax at Selhurst Park, with owner Stan Kroenke and his son Josh bringing out the trophy for the players and fans. The Gunners had defeated Crystal Palace 2-1 in an entertaining affair, but the match itself was secondary as the club finally ended a 22-year wait for the league crown.
Mikel Arteta, visibly emotional, spoke of the journey that led to this triumph. "We have made some massive steps," he said. "We came very close, and on three occasions we fell short, but that drove us to find new ways. The manner we've done it makes it even better." He also expressed gratitude to former hierarchy members, including Edu, Tim Lewis and Vinai Venkatesham, who gave him his first managerial opportunity.
The celebrations were a family affair, with captain Martin Odegaard lifting the trophy amid chants of "champions again, ole ole". Players donned shirts bearing 'champions 26' and took part in a photo session, many mimicking Rafael Nadal's trademark bite. Arteta himself eventually lifted the trophy for the fans, describing the moment as a tangible realisation of the club's glory.
Palace chairman Steve Parish jokingly asked for "five minutes" for their own presentations, which extended to 25. Meanwhile, Palace manager Oliver Glasner, who has reportedly turned down several job offers, held his press conference during Arsenal's trophy lift, focusing on his own aspirations, including a potential European trophy.
Arsenal's 85-point tally is a healthy return in Premier League history, but it felt particularly satisfying given the competitive season. Arteta stressed that the shirt "now represents something else" and that the title is a platform for further success. "My job now is to keep pushing," he added.
