WITHER PREMIER LEAGUE?

FINAL DAY:   GUARDIOLA’S SIDE IN POLE POSITION WHILE ARTETA IS HOPEFUL WEST HAM CAN DO GUNNERS A FAVOUR VS MAN CITY

By  Sports Reporter

Manchester City are back on top of the Premier League table as the 2023/24 title race heads in to the final day on Sunday for only the third time in the last 11 years.

 Both Man City and Arsenal won at the weekend, but Pep Guardiola’s side took pole position after beating Tottenham Hotspur 2-0 on Tuesday with their match in hand, keeping the destiny of the title in their control.

How does the table look?

Title race

Position   Club            Played     GD    Points

1                Man City    37            +60   88

2                Arsenal      37           +61   86

Who do title rivals play in final matches?

Sunday 19 May

Emirates Stadium, London

Arsenal

18:00

Everton

Etihad Stadium, Manchester

Man City

18:00

West Ham

How can Man City win the title?

If Man City win their final-day home encounter at home to West Ham United, they will be crowned champions for a record fourth successive season. Otherwise, they just need to match Arsenal’s result.

How can Arsenal win the title?

For Arsenal to lift their first Premier League Trophy in 20 years, they first must beat Everton and then need City to drop points at home to West Ham. Their superior goal difference could be decisive if the two finish level on points by Arsenal winning and City drawing.

What happens if the teams’ points are the same?

If teams have the same total of points, the following criteria will determine the champions:

–      goal difference.

–      goals scored.

–      total points scored by the relevant teams in head-to-head matches between the title rivals.

–      most away goals scored in the head-to-head matches.

–      playoff match at a neutral stadium, the format, timing and venue of which shall be determined by the Premier League Board.

History favours City, however. On each previous occasion the team sitting top going into the final day has ended up lifting the trophy. But that does not mean there have not been late twists and turns.

The Hammers’ record at the Etihad may not be impressive, but many believe they have the sort of quality that can hurt any team.

 It is also David Moyes’ final match in charge.