(Video) Arteta backs Bournemouth to derail Man City and seal Arsenal title

19.05.26 FT English Premier League

Bournemouth

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Manchester City

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Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta playfully backed Bournemouth ahead of tonight's clash hoping his childhood friend can derail Manchester City's title charge.

The brink of North London glory

Arsenal are incredibly close to lifting their first Premier League crown since the legendary 2004 Invincibles season.

Following a tense 1-0 victory over Burnley on Monday night, the Gunners have firmly cemented their position at the top of the table. The entire championship race now hinges on Tuesday evening's blockbuster fixture at the Vitality Stadium.

If Pep Guardiola's squad drops any points, whether by suffering a defeat or managing only a draw, Arsenal will officially be crowned the 2025 /26 champions.

A lifelong basque connection

Speaking to the media to address the escalating pressure, Arteta brought a surprisingly lighthearted tone to the title race.

The Spanish tactician jokingly declared that he is officially the biggest supporter in Bournemouth's history. However this temporary allegiance goes much deeper than just the Premier League trophy.

Arteta and Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola are childhood friends who grew up and played together in the Antiguoko youth system in the Basque Country. Arteta emphasized that everyone associated with Arsenal is firmly behind Iraola today, fully aware of the massive implications a positive result would carry.

Cherries chasing their own European dream

Bournemouth are certainly not treating this match as a mere favor to Arsenal. Sitting comfortably in sixth place with 55 point following a stellar campaign of 13 win and 16 draw, the Cherries are aggressively hunting a miraculous Champions League qualification spot.

When reporters asked if he had offered any tactical advice to his old friend, Arteta instantly dismissed the idea. He praised Iraola's phenomenal transformation of the south coast club insisting that their own European ambitions provide all the motivation they need.

The Arsenal boss also confirmed he will endure the nerve wracking 90 minute at home with his family, rather than hosting a squad viewing party.

Khaled Hegazy |

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Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.

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