Arsenal have been told their dreams of winning a Premier League title are over until 2025 at least after Wednesday night’s defeat to Manchester City.
While the Gunners remain top of the table, the 4-1 loss at the Etihad Stadium allowed the champions to cut the gap down to just two points while also boasting two games in hand.
It has been a fantastic campaign for Mikel Arteta’s side, who officially qualified for the Champions League for the first time in six years after Brighton lost to Nottingham Forest.
Still, City are now firm favourites to retain their title once more, potentially becoming only the second team in Premier League history to win it on three consecutive occasions.
Should they beat Fulham on Sunday, Pep Guardiola’s side will sit top of the table and will need overhauling.
Speaking after the defeat, former Arsenal midfielder Paul Merson told Sky Sports: “Arsenal had to take their chances, you might never get in this position again.
“There’s no way Arsenal are finishing above Man City next season.
“You don’t realise how close they’ve come this season but that’s it, it’s impossible. I put it as nailed-on impossible now.”