Declan Rice went viral declaring that “it’s not done,” which became the rallying cry Arsenal needed as they navigated a high-stakes encounter against Newcastle United. Following a bruising defeat to Manchester City last week, the Gunners silenced doubters by securing a hard-fought 1-0 victory, effectively reclaiming their lead in what Mikel Arteta has dubbed “a new league.” Rice became so emotional.
The match was decided by a moment of brilliance from Eberechi Eze, whose clinical strike proved to be the difference-maker. The win moves Arsenal three points clear of Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City, who slipped to second after briefly holding the summit following their midweek triumph over Burnley. The atmosphere at the final whistle was one of pure catharsis, with Arsenal players collapsing to the turf in relief after snapping a rare two-game losing streak.
Mikel Arteta was quick to praise his squad’s mental fortitude in what he labeled “game one” of the final sprint.
“We talked about ‘game one’ and how important that was. We did the job,” Arteta remarked. “I don’t expect, after 22 years of not winning it, that it’s going to be a path of roses… we are ready for it.”
The victory puts significant pressure back on Manchester City. While City were occupied with FA Cup semi-final duties against Southampton, Arsenal capitalized on the scheduling gap. If the Gunners defeat Fulham next week, they will establish a six-point buffer, though City will retain two games in hand.
Despite the grueling domestic schedule, captain Martin Odegaard emphasized that the team is prepared to leave everything on the pitch. The Gunners’ focus now shifts rapidly to the continent, with a Champions League semi-final against Atletico Madrid looming on Wednesday.
“The schedule is crazy,” Odegaard admitted, “but we just have to keep going. We will fight every single day.” With the fight for a first Premier League title since 2004 reaching a fever pitch, Arsenal have proven they have the grit to match their ambition.