London, England: Arsenal players and fans erupted into emotional celebrations on Sunday evening as club captain Martin Ødegaard lifted the Premier League trophy at Selhurst Park, officially ending the club’s 22-year wait for an English league title.
The Gunners capped off their historic campaign with a 2-1 victory over Crystal Palace before receiving the trophy in front of jubilant travelling supporters in South London.
It marked Arsenal’s first Premier League triumph since the legendary “Invincibles” era of 2004 and the club’s 14th English league title overall.
Goals from Gabriel Jesus and Noni Madueke secured victory for Mikel Arteta’s side before the long-awaited trophy presentation began after the final whistle. Palace forward Jean-Philippe Mateta scored the hosts’ consolation goal late in the game.
The occasion carried extra historical significance as it was the first time Arsenal lifted the Premier League trophy at an away stadium during the Premier League era after sealing the title earlier in the week when Manchester City dropped points against Bournemouth.
Thousands of Arsenal fans travelled to Selhurst Park for the coronation moment, with emotional scenes unfolding as players embraced family members, staff and supporters after years of near misses under Arteta.
“It feels unreal – hard to put it into words, but just so proud, happy and emotional,” said Odegaard in an interview with the club media.
“It’s a crazy, crazy feeling. Walking up towards the trophy and just realising everything is a mad feeling. I’m just so proud of everyone for the way we did it and everything we’ve been through, and to finally get over the line just means the world to everyone, so I’m so happy.”
Arteta, who previously suffered three consecutive runners-up finishes, was visibly emotional during the celebrations as Arsenal finally dethroned Manchester City to become champions of England again.
The Spaniard admitted that it was more incredible than he could ever have envisaged. “It’s an amazing feeling,” he said. “I’ve been trying to go through this moment a few times, but I could never expect it to be that big, to be that beautiful, and to see so much joy and pride amongst all the people and our supporters.
“I think sometimes you need to reflect on that, because everything has happened so fast and in such a special way as well. But I really want to enjoy this moment, at least today. Tomorrow we’ll start to prepare for the final in Budapest, and I can’t wait to write a new chapter in the history of our football club.”
Gunners teen sensation Max Dowman also made history during the celebrations after becoming the youngest Premier League starter and medal winner at just 16 years old.
Attention will now quickly shift to the UEFA Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain as Arsenal chase a historic double to cap off one of the greatest seasons in the club’s modern history.
“We’re going to use all this energy, positivity and confidence that we have into that pitch in Budapest, and win it,” said Arteta.
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