“The Jaw-Dropping Final Day Drama You Missed That Will Leave You Speechless”

Despite most Arsenal fans resigning themselves to likely missing out on the Premier League title ahead of the Everton game, the atmosphere around the Emirates Stadium was electric, as if the league had already been won. From early afternoon, the areas surrounding the ground were a sea of red, with fans chanting and letting off flares, defiant in their belief that this could still be a “beautiful day.”

Even the absence of Bukayo Saka from the team sheet did little to dampen the spirits, with fans welcoming Gabriel Martinelli’s inclusion and maintaining an unwavering faith that Arsenal had enough to overcome Everton at home. The roar of “North London Forever” was the loudest it had been since the anthem’s introduction, sending a clear message of support to the players.

While the tactics and performances held little significance, as the focus was solely on the results at the Emirates and elsewhere, Martinelli showed promising signs of regaining his best form. His fearlessness, desire to create chances, and impressive statistics (two big chances created, five key passes, five completed crosses) suggested he was edging closer to his clinical touch from the previous season.

The return of Jurrien Timber after a lengthy injury layoff was another highlight, with his introduction prompting a tactical shift to a 2-3 build-up shape, offering a glimpse of the flexibility and adaptability he could provide in the future alongside the versatile Takehiro Tomiyasu.

When the final whistle blew, confirming Arsenal’s failure to secure the 14th league title, there was a brief moment of stunned silence before the crowd’s noise brought the players back to reality, serving as a reminder of the unwavering support and belief in their journey. Mikel Arteta’s message to not be satisfied with second place resonated, but the authentic love and belief in this Arsenal team, arguably the best since the Invincibles, remained unshaken.

Though celebrations were put on hold, the atmosphere throughout the day was no different from that of champions, a testament to the genuine passion and connection between the fans and this remarkable Arsenal side. As thoughts turned to next season, arrangements were already being made for potential title celebrations in May 2024.