If this is to be the end of Arsenal's title challenge -- and given events in Brentford earlier Saturday, it feels like it might be -- then it could scarcely be more appropriate. This was the full smorgasbord of the reasons why the Premier League trophy will be on Merseyside come May 24 rather than north London.

Arsenal has slipped up in the Premier League title race by squandering a two-goal lead to draw with Aston Villa after Liverpool beat Brentford thanks to a stoppage-time double from Darwin Nunez.

Aston Villa came back from 2-0 down to rescue a draw against Arsenal in the Premier League. Gabriel Martinelli and Kai Havertz scored either side of half-time to put the home side in a commanding position, but they were pegged back.

Arsenal pushed for a winner after that and Mikel Merino had a late goal ruled out as VAR ruled his shot struck Havertz’s arm. Merino also hit the post in the dying moments and Arsenal were left gutted at the final whistle as they dropped crucial points in the title race.

Arne Slot’s team had threatened to run away with the 2024-25 Premier League, but after their draw at Nottingham Forest on Tuesday and Arsenal’s win over Tottenham Hotspur the following night, the gap is down to four points — albeit Liverpool have a game in hand.