Arsenal celebrated their first Premier League title in 19 years with a relaxed 2-1 victory over Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park. Goals from Gabriel Jesus and Noni Madueke ensured a fitting end to a memorable campaign for Mikel Arteta's side, who were presented with the trophy after the match.
Arteta Savours the Moment
Mikel Arteta embraced his wife, Lorena Bernal, on the pitch after receiving the silverware he has coveted for so long. With owner Stan Kroenke watching from the stands, Arteta praised his team's achievement and looked ahead to the Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain. 'We already talked about what we have to do in Budapest,' Arteta said. 'We can't wait to write a new chapter in the history of our club and win the Champions League.'
Youngest Premier League Starter
Max Dowman became the youngest player to start a Premier League game at 16 years and 144 days old. The teenager, who missed training on Friday to complete his GCSEs, played a key role in the opening goal, flicking the ball to Gabriel Martinelli, who set up Jesus. Jesus scored his fifth Premier League title, equalling Wayne Rooney's tally, though injuries have limited his contributions this season.
Palace's European Focus
Crystal Palace, who scored a late consolation through Jean-Philippe Mateta, had an equaliser from Yéremy Pino ruled out for offside. Manager Oliver Glasner rested several players ahead of their Conference League final against Rayo Vallecano in Leipzig. 'I came here as a stranger and now after two years I feel like I'm a south Londoner,' Glasner said, revealing he has already rejected many offers for his next post. 'I'm not open for talks. Now I feel responsible to be 100% focused on Crystal Palace.'
Guard of Honour and Trophy Presentation
Arsenal's players were given a guard of honour by Palace before the match. After the final whistle, Martin Ødegaard lifted the trophy in front of thousands of celebrating Arsenal fans. More than 35,000 bots attempting to buy tickets in the home sections were identified, but only a few Arsenal supporters managed to sneak in before being ejected.
Team News and Tactical Tweaks
Arteta gave Christian Nørgaard his first league start and deployed Martín Zubimendi at right-back, possibly with an eye on the Champions League final. Jurriën Timber is fighting to be fit, while PSG have doubts over Achraf Hakimi. Jesus should have opened the scoring earlier but was denied by Dean Henderson. Both managers made several changes at half-time, and Kai Havertz set up Madueke for Arsenal's record-breaking 19th Premier League goal from a corner.
Looking Ahead
Arsenal's attention now turns to Saturday's Champions League final against PSG in Budapest. Palace will face Rayo Vallecano in the Conference League final on Wednesday. Adam Wharton, who limped off, is expected to be fine for that match. Eberechi Eze received a warm reception against his former club but was denied a goal by Henderson. The afternoon ended with Arsenal's party south of the Thames, as the north Londoners celebrated a title long overdue.
