Former Nigerian Vice President Atiku Abubakar has praised Arsenal for their historic Premier League title win in the 2025/26 season, citing resilience, discipline, teamwork, and courage as key factors. The Gunners secured the championship on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, ending a 22-year drought.
Arsenal's Triumph Over Manchester City
Arsenal clinched the title after Manchester City drew 1-1 with Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium. This result not only handed Arsenal the league crown but also secured European qualification for Bournemouth for the 2026-27 season. The Cherries' draw denied City a chance to retain the title, as Arsenal had led the standings for most of the campaign.
Atiku, a known Arsenal supporter, expressed his joy on his verified X account, stating: "Congratulations to Arsenal on a well-deserved Premier League victory. This title is a testament to resilience, discipline, teamwork, and the courage to keep believing even when the odds seemed difficult. As a proud supporter, tonight is special. Well done to the players, the manager, and the incredible fans who never stopped believing. North London is red again."
Mikel Arteta's Transformation
Under manager Mikel Arteta, who took over from Unai Emery in December 2019, Arsenal evolved from a struggling side to consistent title contenders. After finishing as runners-up in the previous three seasons, Arteta's squad finally broke through. Despite a nine-point lead being reduced to a tense finish following a defeat to City in April, Arsenal held firm in the final stretch.
According to the BBC, Arteta's achievement is remarkable for a first-time manager. His team's ability to overcome past disappointments and perform under pressure was crucial in the decisive five-game playoff-like scenario against City.
Bournemouth's European Dream
Bournemouth's draw against City was a double-edged sword: it ended City's title hopes but guaranteed the Cherries a spot in European competition for the first time. ESPN noted that this milestone highlights the club's rapid rise from the Championship to the Premier League's upper echelons.
Related Developments
- Arsenal and Manchester City's remaining fixtures were compared as the title race intensified.
- Atletico Madrid's Diego Simeone explained a hotel change ahead of their Champions League clash with Arsenal.
- Mikel Arteta reacted to Pep Guardiola's departure from Manchester City amid the title chase.
Earlier reports from Legit.ng indicated that a supercomputer predicted Arsenal as favorites for the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League after they defeated Atletico Madrid to reach the final. Their chances were estimated at 52.05% immediately after the match.
Ridwan Adeola Yusuf, a Current Affairs Editor at Legit.ng with over nine years of experience, compiled this report. He holds a Higher National Diploma in Mass Communication from The Polytechnic Ibadan and has previously worked with Africa Check. Ridwan completed the Google News Initiative Lab workshop in March 2024.
