Arsenal fell 1-0 to Nottingham Forest on Saturday, dropping them to fourth place with one game remaining in the season and four points behind Manchester City, who went on to win their fifth Premier League championship in six years.
While Pep Guardiola’s team had been pursuing the Gunners for much of the season, their 4-1 victory over them at the Etihad last month delivered a significant blow.
The Citizens are now in first place, and they are also in the running for a first-ever Triple thanks to the record-breaking goal total of Norwegian wonder Erling Haaland.
Guardiola cited the backing of the crowd as the key to their success this season.
He said: “Our amazing fans have been with us every single step of the way. Without their amazing backing I don’t think there is any way we would have been able to achieve what we have done these past six seasons.
“Their passion and support have been so important and inspirational for us all. Hopefully winning the Premier League title again is a fitting way for us to say thank you to our fans.”
Ilkay Gundogan, the captain of Manchester City, acknowledged the importance of the entire team in the effort to win a third straight championship.
He said: “To have helped the Club win a third straight Premier League title is something very special.
“The Premier League is without doubt the most demanding and competitive league in the world so that tells you everything about what an achievement this is.
“I would also like to thank Pep, all the backroom staff and everyone who works across this football club. Every single day they help provide us as players with everything we need in order to try to be successful. There is no way we could have won this title without all their support.
“To have won this trophy three times in a row and five times in six years is incredible. That quality and consistency helps sum up what Manchester City stand for and ensures the Club will continue to strive for success going forward.
“It has been a season I will never forget.”