Premier League: Arsenal Loses and Endangers Its Second Place

Arsenal was defeated 2-1 by Bournemouth at home on Saturday, marking their fourth loss of the season in the Premier League and putting their second-place position in jeopardy, just four days before their Champions League semi-final return against PSG.

The Gunners, fielding their strongest lineup, failed to adequately prepare for their upcoming trip to Paris, as they were overturned in the second half by an opponent fighting for its first European ticket in history. Having held a solid second position since late December, Arsenal (2nd, 67 points) now sees Manchester City (3rd, 64 points) closing in at just three points, with three matches remaining. Newcastle (4th, 62 points) could also draw closer if they win on Sunday against Brighton.

Sticking to his principles, Mikel Arteta put forth his strongest side on Saturday to maintain sporting momentum, rather than opting for rotation. The only change came from Jurriën Timber's absence, which required Ben White to take over the right back position. Thomas Partey, who was suspended for the first leg against Paris (a 1-0 loss), returned as a defensive midfielder.

The presence of the Ghanaian allowed Declan Rice to revert to his role as a central midfielder, providing a significant offensive advantage for the Gunners. The 26-year-old Englishman created early threats with shots (15th, 17th minutes), nearly scored with a header (19th), and opened the scoring with the composure of a striker (34th minute, 1-0). His captain Martin Odegaard assisted him inside the box, he made a cut to evade goalkeeper Kepa, and scored despite a defender's recovery.

However, Bournemouth (8th, 53 points) did not give up; on the contrary, they brought the necessary intensity to turn the match around in the second half, capitalizing on set pieces. Antoine Semenyo, just two minutes after entering the match, delivered a long throw that Dean Huijsen headed in (67th minute, 1-1), followed by Evanilson, who converted a corner by netting a deflected ball at the far post (75th minute, 1-2).

Arsenal will finish the league against the new champions Liverpool, followed by matches against Newcastle and Southampton, who have already been relegated.