Manchester City have now taken control of the Premier League title race with a 2-1 victory over Arsenal on Sunday 19 April, 2026 at Etihad Stadium.
The result means the Cityzens now have the chance to go top of the table if they emerge victorious in their unplayed game against Burnley.
Manchester City will take a trip to Turf Moor for the Premier League match against Burnley on Wednesday 22 April, 2026 at 20:00 (WAT).
All the power in the title race is now in the hands of Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City as it remains five (5) games to go after the midweek clash against the Clarets.
If Manchester City win all their remaining six (6) matches, then, they will definitely lift the Premier League trophy, while, the finest Arsenal will be able to achieve is match them on points if they win their remaining five (5) matches, however, with the defeat on Sunday evening that seems unlikely.
Mikel Arteta’s Gunners looked like they were exhausted at Etihad Stadium after their goalless result against Sporting CP in their Uefa Champions League quarter final second leg on Wednesday in North London.
And, City had a whole week to prepare for the Sunday game as the hosts showed more hunger, quality and experience in the big game.
Manchester City have a lot of work to do, but, the rule is win all your remaining games and stay in front of Arsenal on goal difference and that’s all.
The home side took the lead in the 16th minute through Rayan Cherki with an assist from Matheus Nunes, but, just two (2) minutes after, Kai Havertz levelled for the visitors, and it ended 1-1 in the first half.
Manchester City, the more determined side, restored their lead in the 65th minute through Erling Haaland; and Coach Guardiola had himself yellow carded six (6) minutes to full time.
Arsenal had big chances in the match but did not convert them and Manchester City took theirs as they slashed down the Gunners’ lead at the summit of standings to just three (3) points with a game in hand.
Arsenal, who are targeting to clinch their first title since 2004, were fighting for four (4) trophies until March, but, are now struggling to maintain their lead at the top of the Premier League table.
The Gunners are still in contention for the Uefa Champions League 2025/26 title.
Results:
| Premier League 2025/26 – Sunday 19 April, 2026 |
| Aston Villa 4-3 Sunderland |
| Everton 1-2 Liverpool |
| Nottingham Forest 4-1 Burnley |
| Manchester City 2-1 Arsenal |
Photo: Manchester City manager, Pep Guardiola, pump fists in the air in celebration of his side’s 2-1 win over Arsenal in the Premier League match at Etihad on Sunday | Manchester City/X
