Arsenal slip at home as title race swings back open

Arsenal’s grip on the Premier League title race loosened after a 2-1 home defeat to Bournemouth, a result that could have major implications in the final stretch of the season. Coming into the game, Arsenal had the chance to extend their lead at the top to 12 points. Instead, the gap remains nine — but crucially, Manchester City have two games in hand and are set to host the Gunners next weekend, a fixture that could redefine the title race.

The leaders’ performance itself raised concerns. Bournemouth started brighter and were rewarded early when Junior Kroupi finished from close range after a deflected cross. Arsenal struggled to control the tempo in the opening phase and looked vulnerable whenever Bournemouth transitioned forward. The hosts found a way back through a penalty, with Viktor Gyokeres converting after a handball decision against Ryan Christie. However, the equaliser did little to shift the momentum decisively in Arsenal’s favour. The decisive moment came in the second half when Alex Scott finished a well-worked move, running onto a flick on the edge of the area and firing past David Raya.