The Premier League season is entering its final stages, with only a handful of games remaining. The last 21 games hold the potential to shape the outcome of the 2025-26 edition. The title, relegation, and European qualification spots are all still to be decided.
Arsenal’s Title Hopes Soar
Arsenal’s dramatic victory against West Ham United has propelled them to a five-point lead over Manchester City. However, Manchester City kept up their pursuit with a 3-0 win against Brentford. For Arsenal, two wins from their final two games will be enough to secure the title.
The Gunners could be crowned champions without even playing, depending on Manchester City’s results. But there is a chance they could be crowned champions without kicking another ball after that match at their Emirates Stadium.
Man City’s Must-Win Situation
Manchester City cannot afford any slip-ups if they want to retain any hope of winning the league. Their game against Crystal Palace is a must-win. A draw or defeat against Crystal Palace would hand Arsenal a golden opportunity to clinch the title by beating Burnley.
If City were to defeat Palace and they get the better of Burnley (two highly probable events) then it could be that Arsenal’s big moment comes a week today, when Guardiola and company visit in-form Bournemouth. Anything but an away win there would start the celebrations in north London.
Potential Final Day Showdown
Should Manchester City beat both Crystal Palace and Bournemouth, the title race could go down to the final day of the season. On the final day, Manchester City are at home to Aston Villa, while Arsenal travel to Crystal Palace.
There remains a scope for further twists in the title race. Arsenal drawing with Burnley and City wins against Palace and Bournemouth would see the teams tied on 80 points heading into the final day.
The goal differences could be all square too if both City’s victories are by a single goal. City, by virtue of (almost certainly) having scored more league goals than Arsenal, would hold the narrowest of advantages.
The remaining matches of the season will be played out over six of the next 12 days.