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Premier League Title Race Tightens as Arsenal Hold Man City, Liverpool Pull Clear
September 21, 2025
Gabriel Martinelli’s stoppage-time equaliser rescued a crucial point for Arsenal in a dramatic 1-1 draw with Manchester City at the Emirates, keeping the Premier League title race alive but handing an early advantage to relentless leaders Liverpool.
City, who came into the match with just seven points from four games, looked set to claim a statement win after Erling Haaland’s first-half goal. Pep Guardiola surprised many by adopting an uncharacteristically defensive, counter-attacking approach. His side recorded only 32% possession the lowest of any Guardiola team in 601 top-flight matches and managed just eight touches in Arsenal’s penalty area.
Mikel Arteta’s Gunners struggled to break down City’s deep block until second-half substitute Eberechi Eze unlocked the defence with a lofted pass, allowing Martinelli to loop home the equaliser in the final minute.
The draw means:
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Liverpool remain the big winners, holding a perfect record and a five-point lead over both Arsenal and City after six matches.
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Manchester City’s seven points from five games mark their worst start to a Premier League season since 2006/07.
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Arsenal stay second, but have taken just one point from encounters with their two main rivals, City and Liverpool.
Guardiola admitted fatigue from Thursday’s Champions League clash with Napoli influenced his ultra-cautious tactics: “They were better and we were incredibly tired,” he told Sky Sports.
For Arsenal, the late strike felt like a victory and showcased their deeper bench this season. Yet both clubs know Liverpool’s flawless start leaves no margin for error as the title chase intensifies.
Next fixtures:
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Arsenal: Newcastle (A) – 28 Sept
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Man City: Burnley (H) – 27 Sept
