Arsenal's dramatic 2-1 win over Everton on Saturday, secured by late goals from Viktor Gyokeres and Max Dowman, has opened a nine-point gap over Manchester City in the Premier League title race. City then dropped points for the second consecutive match, drawing at West Ham after a header from former Arsenal defender Konstantinos Mavropanos. With seven games remaining for Arsenal and eight for City, the Gunners appear in control, but history warns against complacency.
Mikel Arteta knows from personal experience that leads can evaporate. In 2012, Arteta scored a late winner for Arsenal against City, leaving them eight points clear of Manchester United with six games left, only for City to snatch the title on goal difference with Sergio Aguero's famous stoppage-time goal. That memory serves as a reminder that the race is not over, especially with Arsenal still facing a trip to City in their remaining fixtures.
Analysts suggest Arsenal need only 12 points from their last seven games to secure the title, with four home matches against Bournemouth, Newcastle, Fulham, and Burnley offering a clear path. Tougher away tests at City, West Ham, and Crystal Palace remain, but current form favours Arteta's side. City's recent struggles, including a draw at West Ham, indicate they may not produce the relentless run needed to close the gap.
The title could effectively be decided by early May, with Arsenal's victory over Everton sparking celebrations akin to a title win. The Premier League trophy may need to be delivered to Selhurst Park for the final day of the season, where Arsenal could lift it for the first time since 2003. While the race is not mathematically over, the momentum strongly favours the Gunners.
