News Focus
- Manchester City concede three goals in 13 minutes during chaotic second half at Goodison Park
- Arsenal now hold destiny in their hands with three matches remaining this season
- Jeremy Doku scores late equaliser to rescue a point for the defending champions
- Pep Guardiola admits the title race is no longer under City’s control
- Gunners can secure first league crown since 2004 with three victories from final three games
Manchester City have lost their grip on the Premier League trophy. A thrilling 3-3 draw against Everton on Monday night has shifted power to Arsenal. The result leaves the Gunners in charge of their own fate.
The match at Goodison Park was one of the most exciting of the season. City started well and took the lead. Jeremy Doku scored a fine goal to make it 1-0. However, the visitors fell apart after the break.
Everton scored three times in just 13 minutes. Thierno Barry found the net twice. Jake O’Brien added a header. One of these goals came after a mistake by Marc Guehi.
City refused to give up. Erling Haaland quickly pulled one goal back. Then, in the 97th minute, Doku struck again. His stunning late effort earned City a point.
Despite this fightback, the champions dropped two crucial points. They now trail Arsenal, who sit top of the table with 76 points. The Gunners also boast a better goal difference by four goals.
Pep Guardiola spoke honestly after the final whistle. “It is better than losing,” said the City boss. “But the title is not in our hands anymore. Before today, it was. We still have games to play. We will see what happens.”
Arsenal can win their first league title since 2004. They need three wins from their last three matches. Their remaining fixtures are against West Ham, Burnley, and Crystal Palace.
Former Arsenal striker Thierry Henry urged caution. “I would not think we can afford to drop points,” he said on television. “But it is true that the title race is back in Arsenal’s hands. I will not celebrate too early. Nothing is finished yet.”
Wayne Rooney believes Arsenal will finish the job. “City can be a little bit up and down,” the former England captain stated. “Arsenal are very consistent. I think it is Arsenal’s year.”
City’s defence looked weak during the match. They have now conceded eight goals from corners this term. This equals their total from the previous two seasons combined.
The champions have three home games left. They face Brentford, Crystal Palace, and Aston Villa at the Etihad Stadium. Their final away match is against Bournemouth.
There is a chance Arsenal could be crowned champions on 13 May. If they defeat West Ham and City lose to Brentford, the trophy could head to North London early.