Bournemouth stunned Premier League leaders Arsenal to hand Mikel Arteta’s side a potentially damaging defeat in the title race.
Arsenal failed to add to their nine-point lead and it means Manchester City, who have two games in hand, can cut their advantage when they go to Chelsea tomorrow, before welcoming the Gunners in a title showdown next week.
Bournemouth won at the Emirates last season and were expected to be an awkward opponent, but Andoni Iraola’s side still surprised the league leaders when Junior Kroupi arrived at the back post to volley the visitors into a 17th-minute lead.
It added to Arsenal’s title race nerves but the Gunners were given the chance to equalise from the penalty spot when Bournemouth captain Ryan Christie blocked with a raised arm in the box. Viktor Gyokeres converted with his 18th of the season.
Still, Arteta was not happy with Arsenal’s display as Bournemouth took charge at the start of the second half. Eberechi Eze, Leandro Trossard and the 16-year-old Max Dowman were sent on in a drastic attempt to regain some control.
Bournemouth were still the dominant side and regained the lead when Alex Scott sliced through Arsenal’s defence to finish. There were boos from the Arsenal fans at full-time and a second successive Bournemouth victory at the Emirates also results in a huge swing in the title race.
Follow updates from Bournemouth v Arsenal, below
Arsenal v Bournemouth LIVE: Latest Premier League updates
- FULL TIME! Premier League leaders Arsenal stunned by Bournemouth in title race twist
- Man City can cut Arsenal's lead to six points ahead of next week's title showdown at Etihad
- 'You stand up and go for the fight or you're out': Arteta's message after 'punch in the face'
- Bournemouth match-winner Alex Scott: 'To come here and get three points is a big statement'
Arsenal suddenly look broken — now Mikel Arteta must fix their biggest problem
20:30 , Miguel Delaney, at the EmiratesWhile there might be a logic in playing for clean sheets and set pieces given the way that the modern game has developed, what happens when you stop keeping clean sheets and don’t find set pieces as effective.
Set-pieces are obviously a valuable weapon but there has to be more to champions than that. And the absolute key now is that Arsenal need more than that.
Arsenal need to re-assert themselves. They need to display a new authority. They need to dominate a game again.
Can they actually do that? Are they now too conditioned by these constraints?
Arsenal suddenly look broken — now Mikel Arteta must fix their biggest problem
74' GOAL! Scott slices through Arsenal to fire Bournemouth winner [ARS 1-2 BOU]
19:30 , Jamie BraidwoodDavid Brooks' pass was diverted by Evanilson into an onrushing Scott who blasted past Raya. Arsenal were crestfallen and never looked like troubling the scorers.
A beautifully worked goal and Bournemouth lead Arsenal for the second time 🔥
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) April 11, 2026
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38' GOAL! Gyokeres levels from penalty spot after Christie hand ball [ARS 1-1 BOU]
18:30 , Jamie BraidwoodBut then a lifeline. Bournemouth failed to clear Noni Madueke's corner and Gabriel's poke towards goal hit Christie's outstretched right arm. Referee Michael Oliver momentarily paused, before blowing his whistle and pointing to the spot.
Gyokeres took the ball off Havertz and made no mistake with a 12-yard thunderbolt; the sole first-half shot on target for Arsenal.
Gyokeres levels the tie from the spot 🎯
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) April 11, 2026
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17' GOAL! Kroupi Jr arrives at back post to stun Arsenal [ARS 0-1 BOU]
17:30 , Jamie BraidwoodRyan Christie was allowed the freedom of the Emirates to play an inch-perfect pass to an unmarked Adrien Truffert and the full-back's slide-rule pass across the box pinged off William Saliba's right boot, falling perfectly to Kroupi at the far post to cushion his volley home for his ninth goal of the season.
The teenager has now hit 10 Premier League goals in his first season in England.
There's a twist in the title race 👀
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) April 11, 2026
Eli Junior Kroupi puts Bournemouth ahead at the Emirates!
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'It's a big week - there is a lot at stake'
16:28 , Jamie BraidwoodMikel Arteta’s final word to TNT Sports, ahead of the return leg of the Champions League quarter-final on Wednesday then the trip to Manchester City on Sunday.
”It's a big week. It's a lot at stake. We're still in a really good position in both competitions, but we need to do better.”
'A worrying trend for Arsenal' - how will leaders respond?
16:08 , Jamie BraidwoodFormer England international Mikel Arteta, speaking on TNT Sports.
“There was the Carabao Cup final against Manchester City, who were brilliant. Southampton were absolutely fabulous in the FA Cup, deserved to win the game.
“They obviously beat Sporting, even though David Raya had a terrific game, and today they're outplayed.
“I think that's probably the worrying trend - that you've been outplayed in all of those games.
“I think the worry for Mikel will be that they didn't not find a solution to that press. There was a little bit of pressure, a little bit of stress in the crowd, you could feel it.”
'Arsenal played into Bournemouth's trap - they didn't find a solution'
15:38 , Jamie BraidwoodFormer Arsenal defender Martin Keown, speaking on TNT Sports.
“Arsenal played into their trap and they didn't find a solution. The substitutions came very early from the manager, I thought that was a real intention to change the game, but then they didn't find
“It's one of those days where it just hasn't worked, but you can't, after that body of work, you can't throw it all away. They'll be in that dressing room and there'll be some big questions, there will be an examination of where do we, what happened today.
“Arsenal have opened the Premier League, right up now for Man City to be licking their lips.”
'You stand up and go for the fight or you're out'
15:21 , Jamie BraidwoodArsenal manager Mikel Arteta speaking on TNT Sports.
”We've been very consistent, it can happen. This is football, somebody has to give credit to the opposition as well for what they do and the way they capitalise.
”I don't know how many shots they had, but the way they capitalize on our actions, our errors, and we were far from the level today.
“It has to hurt, and you have to take it on the chin. There is no grey areas now. You stand up and go for the fight or you're out, and that's it.”
'To come here and get three points is a big statement'
15:08 , Jamie BraidwoodBournemouth match-winner Alex Scott, speaking to TNT Sports.
”Obviously we knew coming here, they are obviously top of the league, they're having an unbelievable season.
“But we've been unbeaten for a while now, not as many wins, so to come out, to come here and, and get the three points is a big statement.
“I was playing deeper a lot today. About a minute before [the goal] I got moved more advanced. Raya is a top keeper, so I waited a little bit and, and saw he went one way and put it the other.
A good finish from me. I need to add more goals to my game, so, yeah, really happy.”
Mikel Arteta likens Arsenal's defeat to Bournemouth to a 'punch in the face'
15:05 , Jamie BraidwoodArsenal manager Mikel Arteta speaking on TNT Sports.
“It's extremely disappointing. It's a big punch on the face, and it's about how we react now.
“I think credit to them for what they've done. It's a team that obviously hasn't lost for 11 games for a reason, because they do a lot of things right.
“We were far from efficient and the first chance, I think, or the first opportunity they have to attack the box it's a deflection.
”We have a really bad defending action and it costs the goal, and that's obviously emotionally something that we have to deal with.
”We try to recover from there, try to push them, score the goal from the penalty in the second half.
”You expect a different game, but, yeah, we did a lot of strange things today, I would say.”
'Arsenal have to make sure wheels do not come off'
14:58 , Jamie BraidwoodFormer Arsenal defender Martin Keown, speaking on TNT Sports.
”You've got to be feeling nervous now. I could see little things happening all over the pitch. People have got to stand up. Personalities have got to come forward, leaders and emerge because the pressure will come off.
”It's still really in your hands because you play Man City next in the Premier League. You've got to deal with the Champions League game midweek though, and make sure that the wheels do not come off this season.”
'The pressure on Arsenal was too much at times'
14:48 , Jamie BraidwoodFormer Arsenal defender Martin Keown, speaking on TNT Sports.
“A huge disappointment. Obviously Bournemouth were quite magnificent, but how many times are we saying that? Southampton were magnificent last week.
“Bournemouth pressed exceptionally well, but it's about sticking together, and you are going to have to, they have a huge game in the midweek, and everyone is going to be writing you off now. Will that change the mentality of the players? The pressure today was too much at times, and we’re lacking energy.”
Arsenal suffer third consecutive domestic defeat
14:38 , Jamie BraidwoodCarabao Cup final... FA Cup quarter-final... now a Premier League defeat to Bournemouth and a third consecutive defeat for Mikel Arteta’s side.
They won in Lisbon against Sporting in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final in midweek but now face another pressure game on Wednesday.
After that, they go to Manchester City...
Brilliant Bournemouth on a charge towards Europe
14:33 , Jamie BraidwoodLet’s give some credit to Bournemouth. Andoni Iraola’s side are now 12 games unbeaten in the Premier League, a club record, and have found a victory after five successive draws.
Their game plan was superb today and they could now be targeting a historic European spot. Alex Scott, the match-winner, was brilliant in midfield. The Cherries have also won back-to-back games at the Emirates
'Arsenal didn't know how to change the game'
14:29 , Miguel Delaney, at the EmiratesA slip, and a twist. And Arsenal can't say they deserved any more. Bournemouth were superb and fully deserving of all three points, after doing a tactical number on an Arsenal side that couldn't react. A team built for containment didn't know how to change the game. It says much that when Arsenal were the team who needed the goal it was Bournemouth who were most dangerous.
FULL TIME! Arsenal 1-2 Bournemouth
14:27 , Jamie BraidwoodA remarkable result. Arsenal’s lead remains nine points, but Manchester City can close that down to six if they beat Chelsea. Man City then host Arsenal next Sunday, before playing Burnley, their other game in hand.
Man City could be top in 11 days time.
FULL TIME! Arsenal 1-2 Bournemouth
14:25 , Jamie BraidwoodBoos at the end! Cheers from the Bournemouth end!
What a shock, what a twist! Bournemouth were brilliant.
Arsenal were well beaten and they have lost their advantage in the title race.
Arsenal 1-2 Bournemouth
14:23 , Jamie Braidwood90+5 mins: Final minute... Scott heads away! Raya scampers back to his goal.
And then Lewis-Skelly is caught offside! Hundreds start to flood towards the exits.
Arsenal 1-2 Bournemouth
14:22 , Jamie Braidwood90+3 mins: Chance for Gyokeres... but he shoots wide! The striker lifts his shirt and bites into it in frustration.
Arsenal are heading for a third defeat in four games.
But they have another corner... Raya is up!
Arsenal 1-2 Bournemouth
14:21 , Jamie Braidwood90+2 mins: Gyokeres heads down and into the ground after finding space at the back post. He is adamant Arsenal should have a corner but Bournemouth clear.
Tavernier shoots from range... perhaps the corner would have been more sensible!
Arsenal 1-2 Bournemouth
14:20 , Jamie Braidwood90+1 mins: Bournemouth continue to press and force Arsenal to go long. They have been superb today.
Arsenal 1-2 Bournemouth
14:19 , Jamie Braidwood90 mins: How much added time, then?
FIVE MINUTES
Arsenal 1-2 Bournemouth
14:18 , Jamie Braidwood89 mins: GREAT DEFENDING! Gabriel is sent forward for Arsenal and almost bobbles into the box, but Jimenez gets across so well to win the challenge. He takes a huge knock in the process.
Arsenal 1-2 Bournemouth
14:15 , Jamie Braidwood86 mins: Clever ball in from Dowman... Jesus is there and Petrovic is forced to tip over the striker’s header. Another corner.
Arsenal go for a set-piece routine by Rice’s shot from the edge of the box is blocked by Bournemouth.
Arsenal 1-2 Bournemouth
14:12 , Jamie Braidwood83 mins: Gyokeres wins a corner and the Arsenal fans respond. They have created very little from open play.
Bournemouth clear. Then manage to crowd out Max Dowman, who is yet to make an impact for the Gunners.
Arsenal 1-2 Bournemouth
14:08 , Jamie Braidwood79 mins: CHANCE! Dowman’s cross is spilled by Petrovic, with Gyokeres then hooking over in the box. But it was deflected.
Bournemouth, though, clear the corner. Gyokeres is booked for stopping the counter, having brought down Tavernier.
Arsenal 1-2 Bournemouth
14:07 , Miguel Delaney, at the Emirates78 mins: And it is Bournemouth who take advantage of that opening. It's really no more than they deserve on the balance of play. A swift counter saw a fine touch on from Evanilson for Alex Scott to finish a thrusting move.
Arsenal 1-2 Bournemouth
14:06 , Jamie Braidwood77 mins: Arteta responds by sending on Jesus and Mosquera for Zubimendi and White. Trossard is forced behind and there are more groans from the Arsenal fans.
GOAL! Arsenal 1-2 Bournemouth (SCOTT 74')
14:03 , Jamie BraidwoodSTUNNING GOAL! ARSENAL ARE BEHIND! WOW!
Bournemouth have been excellent all afternoon and have just sliced through the leaders! Scott then produces a wonderful finish to beat Raya!
Arsenal are BEHIND!
A beautifully worked goal and Bournemouth lead Arsenal for the second time 🔥
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) April 11, 2026
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Arsenal 1-1 Bournemouth
14:01 , Miguel Delaney, at the Emirates72 mins: The game just beginning to open up a bit and get a straggled in the way the latter stages of Bournemouth matches often do. That probably suits Arsenal, as Andoni Iraola had worked this out. More openings are appearing.
Arsenal 1-1 Bournemouth
14:00 , Jamie Braidwood70 mins: Excellent defensive work from Eze to stop the Bournemouth counter-attack. The visitors have sent on Brooks and Adams for Rayan and Christie.
Arsenal 1-1 Bournemouth
13:57 , Jamie Braidwood68 mins: Close from Rice! It had to be him to try and take the game by the scruff of the neck. His shot from range is tipped over by Petrovic.
Arsenal 1-1 Bournemouth
13:56 , Jamie Braidwood67 mins: After Christie whistles a shot over the top, Raya again almost gives it away following a mix-up with Zubimendi. How or how have Arsenal not been punished.
Arsenal 1-1 Bournemouth
13:54 , Jamie Braidwood65 mins: Gyokeres puts the ball into the net after being sent through on goal - but the striker was offside. Jimenez stepped up just in time.
Arsenal 1-1 Bournemouth
13:52 , Jamie Braidwood63 mins: Raya is forced to go long after Bournemouth closed off any passing angles for the goalkeeper. That has been a theme of today.
Arsenal 1-1 Bournemouth
13:50 , Jamie Braidwood61 mins: Jimenez is allowed to carry the ball a long way and is chased back by Trossard, who then wins the ball in the box. Jimenez was demanding a penalty but Oliver is unmoved.
Arsenal 1-1 Bournemouth
13:49 , Jamie Braidwood59 mins: It really is all Bournemouth. The visitors are the only side showing attacking impetus. Truffert’s cross sails through but Bournemouth then retake control of midfield.
The Arsenal fans release they are second-best at the moment and attempt to get behind their side.
Arsenal 1-1 Bournemouth
13:45 , Jamie Braidwood56 mins: CLOSE! What is Raya doing? He tries to play a first-time pass with the outside of his foot and is almost caught by Evanlison. That’s a lucky escape for the goalkeeper.
Arsenal 1-1 Bournemouth
13:42 , Miguel Delaney, at the Emirates54 mins: Arteta realises Arsenal need a drastic change. All of Dowman, Eze and Trossard are about to come on to switch the emphasis of attack, with Havertz, Madueke and Martinelli coming off. Some of Arsenal's issues have been further back. They've been struggling to play through the very well executed Bournemouth press.
Arsenal 1-1 Bournemouth
13:42 , Jamie Braidwood53 mins: Madueke’s corner is aimed under Petrovic’s bar but Bournemouth survive. Now here come the changes.
Arsenal 1-1 Bournemouth
13:40 , Jamie Braidwood51 mins: Arteta has not seen the response he wanted... changes are coming.
Arsenal 1-1 Bournemouth
13:38 , Jamie Braidwood48 mins: Howls form the Arsenal fans as Raya passes straight out to Tavernier, although Arsenal are able to recover. Bournemouth have started the second half on top.
KICK-OFF! Arsenal 1-1 Bournemouth
13:33 , Jamie BraidwoodArsenal were out very early before the start of the second half.
No changes for Arsenal - and a big 45 minutes coming up in the title race.
HALF TIME! Arsenal 1-1 Bournemouth
13:27 , Jamie BraidwoodGyokeres now has 18 goals in his debut season for Arsenal.
The striker has six in his last five games for club and country.
HALF TIME! Arsenal 1-1 Bournemouth
13:23 , Jamie BraidwoodI’m not sure Bournemouth could have too many complaints about the penalty. It was from close range, but Christie’s right arm was high.
HALF TIME! Arsenal 1-1 Bournemouth
13:19 , Jamie BraidwoodBournemouth see out the last bit of danger as Rice’s free-kick from the right is cleared.
An entertaining half. It’s level, with Gyokeres levelling from the spot after Christie’s handball.
Kroupi Jr had given Bournemouth the lead and Arsenal need more in the second half if they are to take that 12-point lead.
Arsenal 1-1 Bournemouth
13:16 , Jamie Braidwood45 mins: Scott’s wonderful cross is almost met by Hill at the back post. Good defending from Gabriel just to usher it behind.
Into two minutes of added time.
Arsenal 1-1 Bournemouth
13:15 , Jamie Braidwood44 mins: Bournemouth are enjoying another good spell, with plenty of possession in the Arsenal half. Arteta may be looking to make some changes despite Gyokeres drawing them level. Martinelli has been very quiet and Eze could be needed.
Arsenal 1-1 Bournemouth
13:12 , Jamie Braidwood41 mins: A snapshot from Evanilson is well held by Raya, but Arsenal then lose the ball through Zubimendi. Bournemouth fly forward again but Scott lifts his cross over the bar.
Bournemouth have more goals in them but Arsenal’s nerves have been settled a little.
Arsenal 1-1 Bournemouth
13:10 , Miguel Delaney, at the EmiratesAfter an Arsenal display that had been seeing a lot of misplaced passes and a rising tension, an increase in momentum brought a set-piece... and a Ryan Christie handball in the area. He had his arm up so Bournemouth could have few complaints.
Gyokeres smashed home a superb penalty, to the palpable relief of the stadium. Bournemouth had been very well drilled before that. Will 22 days without a game affect them over 90 minutes?
Arsenal 1-1 Bournemouth
13:07 , Jamie Braidwood37 mins: That was Arsenal’s first shot on target.
GOAL! Arsenal 1-1 Bournemouth (GYOKERES 35')
13:06 , Jamie BraidwoodGyokeres finds the corner! Great penalty - lashed into the side netting with lots of power.
Arsenal are level. Gyokeres runs back to halfway.
Gyokeres levels the tie from the spot 🎯
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) April 11, 2026
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PENALTY! Arsenal 0-1 Bournemouth
13:04 , Jamie Braidwood33 mins: Penalty to Arsenal! Christie’s arm is raised and it blocks Gabriel’s close-range shot! after the ball fell at the back post.
Michael Oliver points to the spot.
Arsenal 0-1 Bournemouth
13:04 , Jamie Braidwood33 mins: Rice shoots from the edge of the box but it’s blocked by a combination of Christie and Evanlison. A corner.
Arsenal 0-1 Bournemouth
13:01 , Jamie Braidwood31 mins: Rice’s free-kick goes straight out.
Cue shots of Arsenal fans looking subdued and nervous in the stands.
Arsenal 0-1 Bournemouth
13:01 , Jamie Braidwood30 mins: There’s a shot on Eberechi Eze sitting on the bench. Arsenal look to be lacking that creative spark so far and they have still not troubled Petrovic in the Arsenal goal, while their best chance came from the set-piece.
Arsenal will get another chance to cross after Truffert brought down Madueke.
Arsenal 0-1 Bournemouth
12:59 , Jamie Braidwood28 mins: Raya collects a long throw from Hill and sparks the counter by releasing Rice. He looks for the through ball to Gyokeres but a superb recovery challenge from Christie cuts out the pass.
Arsenal 0-1 Bournemouth
12:57 , Jamie Braidwood26 mins: CHANCE! Oh, this is a big block from Gabriel. Rayan got round the outside of Lewis-Skelly and clipped in the cross. Kroupi Jr was there and met the cross with the volley, but Gabriel got his face in the way.
Bournemouth are attacking with freedom and confidence.
Arsenal 0-1 Bournemouth
12:54 , Miguel Delaney, at the Emirates24 mins: A job to do for the leaders. After all the build-up, Arsenal have started slowly. There have been a few slips and little errors, that manifested in Ben White being out of position for that fine Bournemouth ball through. Adrien Truffert then tried to clip the ball across the area, only for William Saliba's attempted intervention to tee up Junior Kroupi to divert in. Havertz almost scored from a corner in response, but Arsenal need to up this. There's a growing tetchiness to the atmosphere.
Arsenal 0-1 Bournemouth
12:51 , Jamie Braidwood20 mins: CLOSE! Rice’s corner is fierce and Havertz gets a header inside the six-yard box. But he heads over. Should be doing better.
Arsenal 0-1 Bournemouth
12:50 , Jamie Braidwood19 mins: Arsenal fans immediately responded to going behind by trying to get behind their team - but the mood in the Emirates is nervy and edgy now. They do, though, have a corner.
GOAL! Arsenal 0-1 Bournemouth (KROUPI JR 17')
12:47 , Jamie BraidwoodWOW! Bournemouth lead!
A lovely move - and a huge goal! Christie released Truffert down the left with a clever ball. Truffert’s cross was deflected but Kroupi was alive in the box. He volleys in at the back post to stun the Emirates!
There's a twist in the title race 👀
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) April 11, 2026
Eli Junior Kroupi puts Bournemouth ahead at the Emirates!
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Arsenal 0-0 Bournemouth
12:46 , Jamie Braidwood15 mins: A dangerous Bournemouth attack! Rayan squared up to Lewis-Skelly and cut into the box. It almost run onto Evanilson but Gabriel got his big body in the way and protected the ball so Raya could collect.
Bournemouth have enjoyed a good spell, with more possession than the hosts.
Arsenal 0-0 Bournemouth
12:43 , Jamie Braidwood13 mins: Lovely move. A superb ball from Madueke releases Gyokeres and the pull-back is dangerous. Jimenez read it well to clear at the front post. Arteta applauds above his head.
Arsenal 0-0 Bournemouth
12:41 , Jamie Braidwood10 mins: A lovely flick from Madueke and Arsenal are away, but Gyokeres was unable to find the return pass. Hill, again, got across well to cut out the threat.
Bournemouth have got through the first 10 minutes without facing a shot on goal.
Arsenal 0-0 Bournemouth
12:39 , Jamie Braidwood8 mins: Bournemouth are pressing very high when Raya has the ball from goal-kicks. It’s what Arsenal would have expected, of course, and the hosts will try to play their way through. A long ball towards Gyokeres is dealt with well by Hill.
Arsenal 0-0 Bournemouth
12:36 , Jamie Braidwood5 mins: Rice takes aim with a long throw into the box but Gabriel is ruled to have fouled Hill.
The Bournemouth goalkeeper Petrovic needs to be told to hurry up by referee Oliver when taking the goalkick.
Arsenal 0-0 Bournemouth
12:34 , Jamie Braidwood3 mins: Lewis-Skelly will be up against the young Brazil winger Rayan over on the far side. It looks an interesting battle. Gabriel has to get across as Tavernier looked to slip the ball through to Kroupi. This Bournemouth team is very attack-minded.
Arsenal 0-0 Bournemouth
12:32 , Jamie Braidwood1 min: Arteta wanted “full gas” from kick-off but Evanilson has caught a stray arm from Gabriel. It’s a lively atmosphere at the Emirates, with chants of ‘ole, ole, ole’.
KICK-OFF! Arsenal 0-0 Bournemouth
12:30 , Jamie BraidwoodOn Grand National day, Arsenal have seven hurdles to clear if they are to win a first Premier League title since 2004.
They cannot afford a slip-up before travelling to Manchester City next week - and Bournemouth cannot be underestimated.
And we’re underway!
Arsenal v Bournemouth
12:27 , Miguel Delaney, at the EmiratesThere was a lot of emotional and nervous energy around Holloway Road on the walk down to Arsenal this morning.
This one is huge, all the more so for how it might shape next Sunday at Manchester City.
That energy does for the moment seem to have transmitted into a fairly raucous crowd in the way Mikel Arteta wanted.
Reminder of team news and how to watch Arsenal v Bournemouth
12:27 , Jamie BraidwoodConfirmed line-ups
Arsenal XI: Raya; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Lewis-Skelly; Zubimendi, Rice, Havertz; Madueke, Gyokeres, Martinelli
Bournemouth XI: Petrovic; Jimenez, Hill, Senesi, Truffert; Christie, Scott; Rayan, Kroupi Jr, Tavernier; Evanilson
How can I watch it?
Viewers in the UK can watch the match on TNT Sports 1 and streaming service HBO Max, which has replaced discovery+ in the UK.
Mikel Arteta confirms Martin Odegaard misses out due to injury
12:25 , Jamie BraidwoodOn Odegaard: “It’s a very important player for us but he had a niggle in midweek and he’s not available today.”
On Lewis-Skelly: Riccy [Calafiori] is out and Hincapie is just returning from injury. Myles is a top player.”
Mikel Arteta wants 'full gas, full domination' from Arsenal against Bournemouth
12:21 , Jamie BraidwoodMikel Arteta, speaking to TNT Sports, ahead of Arsenal’s clash with Bournemouth at the Emirates.
“It’s an early kick-off so go right from the beginning, set the tempo, set the domination. Go for it. Full domination, full gas. Let’s do what we’ve been doing for nine months.”
Arsenal return to Premier League action - 28 days later
12:12 , Jamie BraidwoodArsenal are back in Premier League action for the first time since Max Dowman’s historic goal against Everton, which was 28 days ago!
A lot has happened since: defeat in the Carabao Cup final, an exit from the FA Cup quarter-finals, and a Champions League quarter-final first leg thrown into the mix as well.
But the Gunners have won four in a row in the Premier League. If that resume that winning run, they will be 12 points clear at the top.
Myles Lewis-Skelly makes rare Premier League start
12:05 , Jamie BraidwoodArsenal’s Myles Lewis-Skelly will be making just his second Premier League start of the season, and his first since the 2-1 home win over Brighton on December 27.
The 19-year-old’s previous stars for the Gunners this season have either come in the FA Cup, Carabao Cup, or Champions League league phase.
He starts at left back as Riccardo Calafiori misses out due to injury and Pierro Hincapie is only fit enough for the bench.
Andoni Iraola on beating Arsenal: 'You need something special'
11:57 , Jamie BraidwoodBournemouth boss Andoni Iraola, speaking to TNT Sports, before his side faces Premier League leaders and underlining what will be required to beat Arsenal.
“You need something special. You need to be good in both boxes. You need to be clinical, to take your chances and to stay in the game. We need to give our forwards the chance to make the difference.
“It’s a massive game. The atmosphere will be great for the players. We are in a good run but the teams around us keep winning games. It will require a lot [to qualify for Europe] but we need something special to keep that alive.”
Arsenal now leaning towards Julian Alvarez
11:50 , Miguel Delaney, Chief Football WriterThe Independent reported two weeks ago that Arsenal have been investigating whether a deal for Kvicha Kvaratshkelia is possible, and that remains the case.
It is still seen as hugely complicated to extract him from Paris Saint-Germain, which is why the club have been assessing various other targets depending on multiple possible plans.
Hence they are understood to be becoming more and more serious about Atletico Madrid’s Julian Alvarez. And how couldn’t they after another superb performance - and goal - on Wednesday in the Champions League against Barcelona?
Mikel Arteta loves him. If Alvarez does come, however, it is likely to see a significant outgoing. Figures outside Arsenal feel a deal for Martin Odegaard may be possible.
The article above is the lead column from the Miguel Delaney: Inside Football newsletter.
Members of Inside Football and Independent Premium subscribers can get the full column – plus additional reporting from inside the Premier League – delivered to their inbox every Friday.
Mikel Arteta's message to Arsenal fans before facing Bournemouth
11:35 , Jamie BraidwoodArsenal are playing a Premier League game at 12:30pm on a Saturday for just the third time this season and Mikel Arteta’s message to the Gunners fans was clear as they bid to go 12 points clear at the top of the table.
“The closer we get, the relevance and importance of the match increases obviously, and tomorrow is a big day for us,” he said.
“The players know it, our supporters know it. It's an early kick-off, so get up early, have an early breakfast, bring your lunch, bring your dinner, and let's go all together for it because it has to be a big day.”
Bournemouth team news: Kroupi Jr starts for visitors
11:24 , Jamie BraidwoodEli Junior Kroupi is fit to start for Bournemouth in the only change from their 2-2 draw with Manchester United a few weeks ago. Tyler Adams and Ben Gannon-Doak are both on the bench for the visitors.
Bournemouth XI: Petrovic, Jimenez, Hill, Senesi, Truffert,Scott, Christie, Rayan, Tavernier, Junior Kroupi, Evanilson
Subs: Mandas, Brooks, Doak, Adams, Smith, Diakite, Adli, Unal,Toth.
Arsenal team news: Lewis-Skelly starts and Eze on the bench
11:21 , Jamie BraidwoodMyles Lewis-Skelly makes just his second Premier League start of the season for injury-hit Arsenal.
There’s no Riccardo Calafiori in the squad and Pierro Hincapie is only fit enough for the bench.
There’s also no Bukayo Saka, Jurrien Timber and Martin Odegaard in the squad, but Eberechi Eze returns to the bench.
Kai Havertz starts in midfield after his late winner against Sporting in midweek, and Gabriel Martinelli also replaces Leandro Trossard.
Arsenal XI: Raya, White, Saliba, Gabriel, Lewis-Skelly, Zubimendi,Rice, Madueke, Havertz, Martinelli, Gyokeres.
Subs:Arrizabalaga, Mosquera, Hincapie, Gabriel Jesus, Eze, Norgaard,Trossard, Dowman, Salmon
Arsenal v Bournemouth team news and line-ups
11:16 , Jamie BraidwoodArsenal XI: Raya; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Lewis-Skelly; Zubimendi, Rice, Havertz; Madueke, Gyokeres, Martinelli
🔴 𝗧𝗘𝗔𝗠𝙉𝙀𝙒𝙎 ⚪️
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) April 11, 2026
Ⓒ Dec skippers the side
💪 Havertz steps in
⚡️ Martinelli on the wing
Leave it all out there, Gunners.
🤝 @deel
Bournemouth XI: Petrovic; Jimenez, Hill, Senesi, Truffert; Christie, Scott; Rayan, Kroupi Jr, Tavernier; Evanilson
Ready for #ARSBOU 👊 pic.twitter.com/UBcvxbIoPb
— AFC Bournemouth 🍒 (@afcbournemouth) April 11, 2026
Arsenal v Bournemouth team news and line-ups
11:13 , Jamie Braidwood... will be confirmed from the Emirates in the next few minutes.
Andoni Iraola’s future also a talking point
11:10 , Jamie BraidwoodAndoni Iraola is also remaining coy about his future as Bournemouth manager.
Iraola's current deal concludes at the end of the season and he has been linked with jobs in England and abroad.
Iraola has been involved in fresh dialogue with the Cherries over the international break but suggested no firm conclusions had been reached.
"Yes, obviously we spoke but I'm sorry I don't have news for you today," he said ahead of Saturday's clash against Arsenal.
"There is no changes on that side but we spoke, yes."
Mikel Arteta says contract talks on hold as Arsenal given injury boost in title race
10:55 , Jamie BraidwoodMikel Arteta said there is “no news” on his new contract and wants his full focus to be on winning the Premier League. The Spaniard’s deal is up for renewal in 2027.
"We have no time to discuss that now. The full focus is on what we have to do from here until the end of the season,” Arteta said.
"I am fully committed and really happy and I feel good. My family is good and I still have so much ambition to do with this football club, and for now we are in a good place.
"This job is about the present and what you do on the day. Give your very best and feel that you are the person that can lead and inspire the group to achieve great things for the club.
"And I feel that way and hopefully I will feel that way for the rest of the week, and with a great outcome at the end of the season.”
Emirate Stadium preparing for battle
10:52 , Luke BakerThe Emirates is looking pristine this morning as preparations are made ahead of the 12.30pm kick-off. Will Arsenal be making the most of the gorgeous surroundings?
Bournemouth eyeing Europe - but have to end drawing run!
10:40 , Jamie BraidwoodYou’d imagine Bournemouth would take a point today, given they are away at the league leaders. A draw would make it a 12-game unbeaten run for Andoni Iraola’s side, a club record in the Premier League, and would see the Cherries became the first team to draw six games in a row in the Premier League since Manchester City in 2009.
Bournemouth won this fixture 2-1 last season.
Inside Arsenal’s title doubts – and what will make the difference in Man City race
10:25 , Miguel DelaneyAfter late victory in Lisbon, Arsenal now have a good feeling to savour, ahead of a Premier League match at home to Bournemouth on Saturday that sources are already building up as one of the stadium’s biggest in years.
That is all the more important given Manchester City’s own surge. After the team completed a serious tactical number on Arsenal in the Carabao Cup final, it was like they enjoyed the release of a new conviction by letting loose against Liverpool in the FA Cup.
Pep Guardiola’s side were certainly enjoying their football there, which is why Arsenal’s win over Sporting was a required response.
Inside Arsenal’s title doubts – and what will make the difference in Man City race
Mikel Arteta on Eberechi Eze's return from injury
10:10 , Jamie BraidwoodEberechi Eze is available for the first time since featuring in the 2-0 win over Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League, where he scored a stunning goal but picked up an issue that would rule him out of the Carabao Cup final and England duty.
"My first conversation with him (Eze) after he felt that niggle, is that he wanted to be available the next week,” Arteta said.
"We knew that was impossible but the recovery and the will that he's shown from day one to get back as quickly as possible and how he's pushed the medical staff and himself to be there tomorrow, was great to see.
"I didn't know that he was so determined, so obsessed and so willing to push his body. It surprised me in a really powerful way just how much he loves the game."
What is the Bournemouth team news?
10:05 , Jamie BraidwoodBournemouth are sweating on the fitness of star forward Eli Junior Kroupi, who withdrew from duty with France’s Under-21s, but Tyler Adams, Ben Gannon-Doak and Julio Soler are all back in contention. Justin Kluivert and midfielder Lewis Cook remain out, however.
What is the Arsenal team news?
10:02 , Jamie BraidwoodBukayo Saka, Jurrien Timber, Martin Odegaard, Riccardo Calafiori and Piero Hincapie all missed training on Thursday but Mikel Arteta said some of them could feature against Bournemouth. There have been changes since yesterday, yes,” he said on Friday.
Eberechi Eze is available, though, for the first time since missing the Carabao Cup final due to injury.
Good morning and welcome
10:00 , Jamie BraidwoodIt’s a big day for Arsenal. The Premier League is back and the Gunners have the chance to open up a 12-point lead at the top of the table before Manchester City go to Chelsea tomorrow.
Nerves will be in the air as the run-in well and truly begins. Bournemouth will be out to spoil the party as they eye what would be a historic qualification for European football.
Stay tuned for all the team news and build up.
