Manchester City F.C.’s chances of lifting the Premier League trophy ended after a 1-1 draw against AFC Bournemouth confirmed Arsenal F.C. as champions.
Eli Junior Kroupi’s brilliant first-half strike played a key role in handing the Gunners their first Premier League crown in 22 years. Although Erling Haaland scored a late equaliser, it marked the first time in Pep Guardiola’s managerial career that he has failed to win the league title in consecutive seasons.
The draw also guaranteed European football for Bournemouth next season, a milestone achieved in head coach Andoni Iraola’s last home game before leaving the club.
With Guardiola widely expected to depart after the campaign, City supporters urged him to remain while also chanting, “We’ll fight to the end” — but Bournemouth ensured that battle would not continue into Sunday’s finale.
City created a few opportunities before the break, including an early effort from Jeremy Doku that forced Djorde Petrovic into a strong save, though the visitors struggled to seriously test the Cherries.
Bournemouth also threatened, with Evanilson wasting a huge opportunity from close range, only for the offside flag to spare him embarrassment.
The breakthrough arrived when Adrien Truffert surged down the left flank and pulled the ball back for Kroupi, whose superb finish into the top corner left Gianluigi Donnarumma with no chance.
Guardiola’s side almost responded immediately after halftime, but Petrovic denied Nico O’Reilly after the defender broke through on goal.
After introducing Rayan Cherki, Phil Foden and Savinho to boost the attack, City pushed forward, but Bournemouth continued to look dangerous. Kroupi bent another effort over the bar, while Rayan struck the post from close range following a corner.
Despite late pressure from City, Bournemouth looked more likely to score again as David Brooks squandered two excellent chances, including one that struck the post when he was clean through.
Haaland eventually levelled in the dying moments after Rodri hit the woodwork, but the final whistle sparked celebrations in Dorset and among Arsenal fans in north London. Guardiola now appears set to end his time at City with only a farewell appearance against Aston Villa F.C. on Sunday.
