Bournemouth vs Manchester City: Arsenal Could Seal the Title Sooner If the Citizens Slip Up

Arsenal are on the verge of ending their 22-year wait for the Premier League title. Their possible coronation could come sooner if Manchester City fail to beat Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium in the 37th round on Wednesday, 20 May, at 01:30 WIB.

The league table already makes this a life-and-death fixture for City. The pressure is on Pep Guardiola’s squad, with Arsenal currently five points clear after their 1-0 win over Burnley. A draw or defeat would dash City’s hopes of catching Arsenal; only a win would keep their title ambitions alive until the final week.

Arteta, the former Guardiola assistant, has even admitted he would root for Bournemouth to hasten the London club’s title celebrations. “I think now everyone is backing Bournemouth because we know how important this match is,” he said.

There is good reason for Arsenal optimism. Bournemouth are in impressive form and have been unbeaten in 16 Premier League matches. Andoni Iraola’s side also remain in the mix for a place in the Champions League next season, meaning their motivation will be heightened.

On the other hand, City arrive under significant pressure, even though they recently won the FA Cup. Guardiola must keep his focus amid talk of his departure at the end of the season.

While Arsenal look to rely on City dropping points, they still control their own destiny. If they beat Crystal Palace in their final game of the season, Arsenal will be Premier League champions for the first time since 2004.