Arsenal suffered a major setback in the Premier League title chase on Saturday, losing 2-1 at home to Bournemouth, giving Manchester City renewed hope of overtaking the long-time leaders.
Junior Kroupi gave the visitors the lead at Emirates Stadium, but Mikel Arteta’s side equalised late in the first half with a penalty from Viktor Gyokeres.
The Arsenal made numerous attacking substitutions early in the second half but struggled to produce clear-cut chances against Andoni Iraola’s enterprising team.
Bournemouth were back in front in the 74th minute after a fluid move finished off by Alex Scott, who rifled the ball past David Raya.
Arsenal fought for a leveller but suffered only their second home defeat of the season.
With six games remaining, Arsenal, chasing their first Premier League crown since 2004, is nine points ahead of second-placed City.
However, if Guardiola’s side beats Chelsea on Sunday and defeats Arsenal in an Etihad summit meeting next week, they will be within three points of the top spot.
