Arsenal's Premier League Triumph Boosts European Hopes
Arsenal players celebrate their long-awaited Premier League victory. Photo: RTE.ie
Liam Brady, the legendary Dubliner who knows the heart of Arsenal better than most, believes the club's first Premier League title in 22 years is more than just a domestic triumph. It is a statement of sporting merit over the limitless, state-backed millions of Manchester City, and a launchpad for a new era of European dominance.
Arsenal were confirmed as champions on Tuesday evening without even kicking a ball, as second-placed Manchester City could only manage a 1-1 draw against Bournemouth. For a club that has finished as runners-up for the past three seasons, constantly staring up at the financial might of the Etihad regime, this victory tastes sweeter than most. It is a win for the collective, for the working-class supporters who have waited patiently for sporting integrity to prevail over the oligarchic dominance so common in the modern British game.
A Foundation for Continental Success
The season is far from over for Mikel Arteta's men. They travel to Crystal Palace on Sunday to conclude their domestic campaign, before turning their attention to the grand European stage. On May 30, they face Paris St Germain in the Champions League final in Budapest, a fittingly continental setting for a club looking to finally claim the ultimate prize.
Brady insists that shaking off the weight of the Premier League chase will give Arsenal the belief they need to overcome PSG and break their Champions League duck. He believes that getting a major trophy under your belt makes the task of winning others significantly easier.