One of the most intense Premier League title races in recent memory is nearing its end.
This week, Arsenal, Liverpool, and Manchester City played crucial games on consecutive nights, and The Athletic was present at all three to capture the emotions of the clubs and their fanbases.
At The Emirates, an Arsenal fan pauses between bites of a doner kebab to exclaim, “The internet is gonna be a f****** joke tonight.”
Here, the fans are different; still passionate football enthusiasts at heart, but with unique priorities on matchdays.
The sight of fans taking selfies in front of the giant Arsenal lettering is common, a deviation from typical football ground behavior.
One man records a video of his friend walking towards the camera with a club-shop bag and sunglasses. They review the video, adjust their scarves, and consider their job done.
Pre-match scenes include alcohol, meat, cigarette smoke, and anticipation.
Despite Arsenal being at the top of the league with five games left, there appears to be a sense of normalcy around the stadium.
For some Gunners fans, the dominance of the Manchester City machine renders Arsenal’s performance inconsequential.
However, there is a sense of pride in the club’s recent run of form, highlighted by the feeling that they are pushing City closer than in previous seasons.
The atmosphere at The Emirates is one of unity and contentment, reflecting a club comfortable in its identity.
Inside the stadium, fans are wrapped in warm clothing as AC/DC’s “Hells Bells” plays in the background, setting the tone for a crucial match.
Arsenal’s early goal sets the stage for a dominant performance, supported by enthusiastic fans and a sense of unity among the players.
Chelsea, with their high possession and chances in the first half, fail to capitalize on opportunities, allowing Arsenal to secure a convincing victory.
Leoandro Trossard celebrates scoring Arsenal’s first of the evening (Charlotte Wilson/Offside via Getty Images)
After the match, fans rejoice and celebrate, reflecting on the significance of the win and the team’s progress.
Overall, The Emirates exudes a sense of unity and joy, a stark contrast to the subdued mood at Everton.
As Liverpool faces Everton in a tense Merseyside derby, Klopp’s team struggles to keep up with their rivals, resulting in a disheartening defeat.
Everton’s determination and tenacity overshadow Liverpool’s lackluster performance, leaving fans disappointed and reflective.
In the aftermath, Liverpool players express their frustrations, while Klopp faces the reality of the team’s challenging position in the title race.
Klopp and Van Dijk after Liverpool’s potentially costly defeat at Everton (Peter Byrne/PA Images via Getty Images)
The defeat at Everton symbolizes a setback for Liverpool, contributing to doubts about their title ambitions.
Meanwhile, at the Amex, Manchester City is on a different trajectory, focused and determined to secure another Premier League title.
City’s dominant performance against Brighton highlights their strength and consistency, setting the stage for a potential title triumph.
De Bruyne and Foden celebrate as City demolish Brighton (Sebastian Frej/MB Media/Getty Images)
As City secures another victory, their fans express confidence and optimism about the team’s prospects in the title race.
Overall, the contrasting experiences at The Emirates, Goodison Park, and the Amex highlight the drama and intensity of the Premier League title race.
(Top photo: Zac Goodwin/PA Images via Getty Images)