Just two weeks ago, Arsenal supporters were the subject of relentless mockery from rival fans. Before their 1-0 victory over Newcastle on April 25th, the Gunners appeared destined for another second-place finish in the Premier League, a fate that had befallen them for three consecutive seasons. The taunts of "second again, olé olé" echoed from opposing terraces, painting a picture of familiar frustration for the North London faithful.
That narrative has been completely rewritten. Arsenal now travels to West Ham this Saturday as league leaders, with their destiny firmly in their own hands. The turnaround has been dramatic, transforming a fanbase accustomed to near-misses into one that is now the envy of the footballing world. Their position is one of immense promise, sitting atop the table with a clear path to their first league championship since the unbeaten 'Invincibles' season of 2004.
The emotional rollercoaster of the campaign has been intense. Arsenal were in contention for four trophies earlier in the season, but hopes were dashed with a 0-2 loss to Manchester City in the League Cup final on March 22nd and a 1-2 FA Cup elimination at Southampton on April 4th. A subsequent dip in form and a spate of injuries led many fans to fear another trophyless campaign, a sentiment shared by podcast host Elliot Smith.
The mood shifted dramatically in a pivotal three-day spell. A convincing 3-0 win over Fulham on May 2nd was followed by Manchester City's 3-3 draw at Everton on May 4th, which blew the title race wide open. This was capped by a monumental 1-0 victory over Atlético de Madrid at the Emirates on May 5th, securing Arsenal's place in the Champions League final. The atmosphere during that European night was described by supporter Raymond Herlihy as the best he has ever experienced at the stadium.
Now, with only four matches remaining—three in the Premier League and the Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain in Budapest on May 30th—the stakes are monumental. Supporters are in a state of euphoria, believing that winning all four remaining fixtures would complete the greatest season in the club's storied history. The journey from ridicule to the brink of a historic double has been anything but a "long fleuve tranquille," but for Arsenal fans, the ultimate prize is now tantalizingly close.
Based on reporting from Foot - actualités, mercato, info & vidéo en continu.
