Arsenal sink Bournemouth to stay top of Premier League table

Arsenal asserted their dominance in the Premier League with a commanding 3-0 victory over Bournemouth, extending their lead to four points at the top of the table.

The Gunners seized control in the first half, securing the lead just before halftime with a penalty calmly converted by Bukayo Saka, following a foul on Kai Havertz by Bournemouth goalkeeper Mark Travers.

The fourth consecutive win ensures that even if Manchester City triumph over Wolves in Saturday’s late fixture, they cannot dislodge Arsenal from the top spot this weekend.

Leandro Trossard and Declan Rice sealed the win with late strikes, further solidifying Arsenal’s position at the summit.

With their sights set on their first title since 2004, Arsenal will be hoping for a stumble from City against Wolves. Guardiola’s side, with two games in hand, have the opportunity to secure a historic fourth successive English title with victories in their remaining fixtures.

Reflecting on the victory, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta praised his team’s performance, particularly highlighting their exceptional first-half display.

He emphasized their composure and creativity, acknowledging the numerous missed opportunities that could have seen them extend their lead even further.

Arsenal’s 26th Premier League victory this season equalled the club’s top-flight record for a single campaign.

“It was probably the best first half we’ve played all season,” Arteta said.

“We were unbelievable. Everything flowing, super composed on the ball. We generated so many chances, we could have gone three, four, five up easily.”

Arteta’s men gifted the title to City last season after blowing an eight-point lead in the closing weeks.

But the north Londoners have learned from that meltdown, winning 14 of their 16 league games in 2024 to stay firmly in the hunt.

Arsenal travel to Manchester United in their penultimate game next weekend before hosting Everton in what they hope will be a potential title clincher on May 19.

During the match, Arsenal fans paid tribute to 14-year-old British-Nigerian born supporter Daniel Anjorin, who was killed in a sword attack on Tuesday.