Arsenal’s Premier League title hopes suffered what will surely be a fatal blow as Brighton came to the Emirates and delivered a brilliant performance en route to a sensational 3-0 victory.
Manchester City’s comfortable win at Everton earlier on Sunday meant it was all or nothing for the Gunners but they were unable to rise to the occasion against a Brighton side that responded emphatically to their humiliation at the hands of the Toffees earlier this week.
In a feisty encounter that simmered throughout, Julio Enciso struck the first blow when he nodded in Pervis Estupinan’s cross from just yards out after being left unmarked by Jakub Kiwior, who went down in the build up.
The Seagulls then toyed with their hosts, who saw Mikel Arteta booked for dissent as they grew increasingly frustrated, and delivered the knockout punch when Deniz Undav punished former Brighton forward Leandro Trossard’s loose pass by lobbing Aaron Ramsdale.
Estupinan then added a third when he followed up Ramsdale’s weak save by prodding home the rebound and sparking wild celebrations on the south coast – and in Manchester.
Arsenal travel to Nottingham Forest next Saturday with in their final away game of the season. The Gunners then host Wolves on the final day on May 28.
Brighton are in midweek action as they visit Newcastle on Thursday night before hosting Southampton the following Sunday.
Roberto De Zerbi’s side then host Arsenal’s title rivals Manchester City on May 24, before going to Aston Villa on the final day.