Arsenal ended their 22-year English Premier League title drought on Tuesday night without kicking a ball as Bournemouth drew 2-2 with Manchester City at the Vitality Stadium.
With the result, the Gunners were confirmed champions, as they are four points ahead of Manchester City with just one round of fixtures left, with Arsenal set to lift the trophy at Crystal Palace on Sunday.
Build-up to this game had been overshadowed by dramatic reports that Pep Guardiola is set to step down as City manager at the end of this season.
He told television broadcasters before the game that speculation over his future had “absolutely zero” impact on preparations, but his side were outplayed and outfought by the brilliant Cherries, who extended their unbeaten run to 17 matches.
Buoyed on by a raucous following at the compact venue, teenage striking sensation Junior Kroupi curled in a sublime finish six minutes before half-time.
Home goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic made a vital save to deny Nico O’Reilly early in the second half and although Erling Haaland scored a late equaliser, the hosts held on.
Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola announced he will leave at the end of this season – and this result ensures the Spaniard has helped achieve the magnificent feat of securing European football for next term, the first time for the club.
