Arsenal close in on Premier League glory after 22 years wait

By Johnson Arua

Arsenal moved a step closer to ending their 22-year wait for a Premier League title as Mikel Arteta’s side tightened their grip on the title race ahead of Sunday’s crucial clash against struggling West Ham United.

The Gunners currently sit five points clear of Manchester City, although Pep Guardiola’s men still have a game in hand.

Manchester City’s hopes suffered a major setback after their dramatic 3-3 draw against Everton earlier this week, opening the door wider for Arsenal to seize control of the championship race.

With only a handful of matches remaining against West Ham, Burnley, and Crystal Palace, confidence is steadily rising at the Emirates Stadium.

Arsenal’s recent resurgence has been boosted by consecutive league victories and a morale-lifting 1-0 Champions League semi-final triumph over Atletico Madrid on Tuesday, which secured a place in the final against Paris Saint-Germain.

The result sparked celebrations among supporters who now believe the club can finally reclaim the English crown for the first time since 2004.

Despite the growing optimism, Arsenal legend Thierry Henry has warned fans against celebrating too early, describing the trip to West Ham as a potentially difficult hurdle.

“I always thought that City might drop points against Everton and my worry was West Ham away,” Henry told Sky Sports.

“So I’m going to stay in my lane and not celebrate too early because nothing is done, but I could see that happening.”

Meanwhile, Tottenham Hotspur are fighting to avoid relegation after a difficult campaign that saw major managerial changes at the club.

Spurs manager Roberto De Zerbi believes his side is improving but insists they are not yet safe despite collecting seven points from their last three matches.

The Italian coach, who replaced Igor Tudor in March, urged his players to remain focused as they prepare to host Leeds United on Monday night.

“We can’t forget what was the situation before Wolverhampton,” De Zerbi told TNT Sports. “Before Wolverhampton it was a very sad situation and these memories have to stay in our head every day.”

Tottenham currently sit 17th on the table, just one point above West Ham, and know victory against Leeds could significantly boost their survival hopes.

Leeds, however, are equally desperate for points and could secure their Premier League status depending on other results this weekend.

Elsewhere, Chelsea continue to struggle following a disastrous run of six consecutive league defeats that has severely dented their hopes of qualifying for next season’s UEFA Champions League.

The Blues, managed by interim coach Calum McFarlane, have scored only once in their last six Premier League matches.

Chelsea now face another stern test against Liverpool, who are closing in on a Champions League qualification spot under manager Arne Slot.

The west London club will be hoping to rediscover form ahead of their upcoming FA Cup final against Manchester City.