The 2025/26 Premier League season concluded in fitting fashion as newly crowned champions Arsenal rounded off their historic campaign with a 2-1 victory over Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park.
In a match that served as a celebratory prelude to their long-awaited trophy presentation, Mikel Arteta’s side demonstrated the depth and tactical versatility that secured them their first league title since 2004.
The afternoon was marked by a significant moment in Premier League history, as 16-year-old Max Dowman was handed his first start.
At 16 years and 144 days old, Dowman became the youngest player ever to start a Premier League game.
His presence on the pitch was a testament to Arsenal’s forward-thinking approach, and he did not look out of place, playing a pivotal role in the build-up to the opening goal.
His clever flick provided the spark that allowed Gabriel Martinelli to tee up Gabriel Jesus, who coolly dispatched the finish in the 41st minute.
​With their eyes firmly fixed on the upcoming Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain, Mikel Arteta used the final day as an opportunity to manage his squad’s fitness.
The Gunners made several tactical adjustments at half-time, introducing Kai Havertz and Gabriel Magalhães.
Shortly after the restart, a well-worked set-piece routine which has been the trademark of Arsenal’s season saw Havertz cushion a header for Noni Madueke, who fired home to double the lead in the 47th minute.
Mikel Merino made a welcome comeback after a prolonged injury spell, further boosting the squad’s morale ahead of their European showpiece.
​While the atmosphere in the away end was one of jubilation, the afternoon proved challenging for Crystal Palace.
Manager Oliver Glasner, who was overseeing his final home match in charge of the club, saw his team struggle to break down a resilient Arsenal defense.
​The primary concern for the Eagles was not the scoreline, but the health of Adam Wharton. The midfielder, having come on as a substitute, was forced off with an injury following a challenge by Myles Lewis-Skelly.
With a crucial Europa Conference League final against Rayo Vallecano approaching on Wednesday, Palace supporters will be anxious for positive news regarding his fitness.
Despite the setback, Palace managed a late consolation goal through Jean-Philippe Mateta in the 88th minute and saw a frantic stoppage-time equalizer from Yéremy Pino ruled out for offside.
As the final whistle blew, the contrast in emotions was clear. It was time for proper celebration after breaking their Premier League jinx which has seen fail to win the title.
For Arsenal, the 2-1 win was the perfect punctuation mark on a season that has redefined the club’s recent history.
Owner Stan Kroenke, in a rare appearance, watched on as the team prepared to lift the Premier League trophy under the south London sun.
​For Palace, while the result was disappointing, the day served as a farewell to Glasner and a chance to regroup before their own European final.
As the dust settles on the 2025/26 Premier League season, both clubs now look toward mid-week continental finals, but for Arsenal, the focus remains on savoring a campaign that will be remembered by the Emirates faithful for years to come.
