The Closest Premier League Title Races: Thrilling Battles Between Top Three Teams

Introduction

The Premier League title race has seen some thrilling battles over the years, with the top three teams often competing closely for the coveted trophy. In this article, we will explore the five closest finishes between the top three teams since the inception of the Premier League in 1992/93.

2013/14 Season

The 2013/14 season witnessed a nail-biting title race, with Manchester City, Liverpool, and Chelsea vying for the top spot. Manchester City emerged as the champions with 86 points, closely followed by Liverpool with 84 points and Chelsea with 82 points. The title race went down to the wire, with the top spot changing hands 25 times throughout the season. Manchester City secured the title on the final day with a 2-0 victory over West Ham, while Liverpool faltered in the closing stages, losing crucial matches.

2007/08 Season

The 2007/08 season saw another intense battle for the title between Manchester United, Chelsea, and Arsenal. Manchester United clinched the title with 87 points, just ahead of Chelsea with 85 points and Arsenal with 83 points. Chelsea, under the management of Avram Grant, pushed United until the final day, remaining unbeaten after December 16. However, Arsenal, who were leading at the end of February, faltered in the closing stages, losing crucial matches and falling out of contention.

1998/99 Season

The 1998/99 season witnessed a closely contested title race between Manchester United, Arsenal, and Chelsea. Manchester United secured the title on the final day with 79 points, followed closely by Arsenal with 78 points and Chelsea with 75 points. Arsenal had a chance to retain their title but faltered in the penultimate game, losing to Leeds. United capitalized on this opportunity and secured the title with a one-point advantage.

1996/97 Season

The 1996/97 season saw Manchester United dominate the title race, finishing with 75 points. Newcastle and Arsenal finished tied on 68 points, but Newcastle claimed the second Champions League spot due to a superior goal difference. While United comfortably secured the title, the battle for second place was fiercely contested.

2008/09 Season

The 2008/09 season witnessed a thrilling title race between Manchester United, Liverpool, and Chelsea. Manchester United emerged as the champions with 90 points, followed by Liverpool with 86 points and Chelsea with 83 points. Liverpool made a late surge, reducing United's lead to just one point, but ultimately fell short. United sealed the title with a game to spare, equalling Liverpool's record of 18 top-flight titles.

Conclusion

The Premier League has witnessed some exhilarating title races, with the top three teams battling it out until the final whistle. These closest finishes between the top three teams highlight the intensity and competitiveness of the league. Whether it's a four-point gap or a seven-point gap, every point matters in the pursuit of the Premier League title.