Arsenal's 2-1 victory over Everton proved in vain as their hopes of a first Premier League title for 20 years were crushed on the final day of the season on Sunday (May 19). Fans arrived at a sun-drenched Emirates Stadium full of hope, if not expectation, that they could become the first team in the Premier League era to grab the title on the final day having not started it as leaders.
Arsenal missed out on a first Premier League title since 2004 despite beating Everton as Manchester City took the glory. To be crowned champions, the Gunners needed to beat the Toffees and hope Man City failed to win against West Ham United.
Arsenal suffered a setback when Idrissa Gueye's deflected free-kick put Everton in front, although Takehiro Tomiyasu equalised three minutes later.
While Arsenal did eventually hold up their end of the bargain with Kai Havertz's late winner, ultimately City's victory over West Ham took matters out of their hands.
Phil Foden's early double for City at Etihad Stadium effectively ended the lingering hopes Arsenal had of a first title in 20 years.
The Gunners were further frustrated as Everton took the lead in north London despite the home side's dominance.
After Thomas Partey fouled Dwight McNeil 25 yards out, Gueye's free-kick took a huge deflection off the forehead of Declan Rice and flew into the net past the wrong-footed David Raya.
Arsenal responded quickly, Tomiyasu equalising with a fine low finish from the edge of the area following a pull-back from Martin Odegaard.
Havertz and Emile Smith Rowe both struck the woodwork in the second half, as belief visibly drained at the end of a long, losing battle for silverware.
Arsenal did find the winner, however, although it came in controversial circumstances.
After Havertz tucked the ball in from close range, the video assistant referee recommended that the goal should be disallowed for a Gabriel Jesus handball in the build-up. But after reviewing the footage at the side of the pitch, referee Michael Oliver allowed the goal.
