Pep Guardiola has congratulated Arsenal on winning the Premier League title, ending Manchester City's reign as champions. City's 2-2 draw at Bournemouth confirmed Arsenal's first league crown in 22 years, sparking celebrations at the club's training ground.
Guardiola, who is set to leave City after Sunday's final home game against Aston Villa, praised his former assistant Mikel Arteta. 'Congratulations to Mikel, congratulations to Arsenal, they have been phenomenal,' he said. 'We were close. On behalf of everyone at Manchester City, we congratulate Mikel and all the staff, players and fans on winning the Premier League. They deserve it.'
The Arsenal squad watched the Bournemouth match together and celebrated wildly after the final whistle. Declan Rice, who had insisted the title race was not over after Arsenal's defeat at City last month, posted on social media: 'I told you all.. it’s done.' The team posed for a picture with a giant cardboard cut-out of the trophy.
Guardiola refused to confirm his future plans, stating he has one year left on his contract and will discuss it with the chairman after the season. 'I’m the happiest man in the world to be at this extraordinary club,' he added.
Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola, whose side secured European football with the draw, said: 'At the beginning of the season you didn't imagine it. It has been so nice and we have a chance to fight for the Champions League in the last game.'
