Top 10 Premier League Title Races: Drama, Excitement, and Pressure

WriterAlex Johnson

25 February 2024

Teams
Top 10 Premier League Title Races: Drama, Excitement, and Pressure

The Premier League is renowned for its captivating title races that draw people from around the world. The drama and pressure on players make these races some of the most exciting moments in football. Here, we rank the top 10 title races in Premier League history based on factors such as points difference, excitement, and final-day drama.

1. 2011/2012: Man City vs Man United

The best title race in Premier League history goes to the 2011/2012 season, where Manchester City secured their first-ever Premier League triumph. With a brilliant start to the season, including a memorable 6-1 victory over rivals Manchester United, City seemed unstoppable. However, they faced a setback and had to regain control with a crucial 1-0 win over United. On the final day, City found themselves 2-0 down at home to QPR, but a remarkable comeback, culminating in Sergio Aguero's last-minute winner, secured the title in dramatic fashion.

2. 2021/2022: Man City vs Liverpool

The 2021/2022 season witnessed an intense battle between Manchester City and Liverpool. Both teams were vying for the title, with Liverpool aiming for an unprecedented quadruple. The race came down to the final day, with City going 2-0 down against Aston Villa. However, a stunning comeback, including Ilkay Gundogan's winning goal, secured the title for City. Liverpool's 3-1 win against Wolves proved meaningless in the end.

3. 1998/1999: Man United vs Chelsea vs Arsenal

The 1998/1999 season is famous for Manchester United's historic treble, but their Premier League triumph was hard-fought. After a tough start, United went unbeaten for the rest of the season. On the final day, they had a one-point lead over Arsenal, but a goal from Les Ferdinand gave Tottenham an unlikely lead. However, goals from David Beckham and Andy Cole secured a comeback victory for United, rendering Arsenal's win over Aston Villa irrelevant.

4. 2015/2016: Leicester vs Tottenham vs Arsenal

The 2015/2016 season will forever be remembered as Leicester City's fairytale title triumph. Against all odds, Claudio Ranieri's team, tipped at 5000/1 to win the league, defied expectations. Tottenham Hotspur's draw against Chelsea in the 'Battle of the Bridge' sealed Leicester's victory. Jamie Vardy's record-breaking goal-scoring streak and Arsenal's late surge added to the excitement of this remarkable title race.

5. 2013/2014: Man City vs Liverpool vs Chelsea

The 2013/2014 season saw a thrilling title race that included one of the most memorable moments in Premier League history - Steven Gerrard's slip. Liverpool's hopes were dashed as they blew a 3-0 lead against Crystal Palace, allowing Manchester City to secure the title with a 2-0 win over West Ham on the final day.

6. 1997/1998: Arsenal vs Man United

Arsenal's first Premier League title in the 1997/1998 season was a remarkable achievement. Under Arsene Wenger, Arsenal finished one point ahead of Manchester United, securing the title with two games to spare. Their impressive run of 45 points from a possible 51 between December and May played a crucial role in their success.

7. 2009/2010: Man United vs Chelsea

The 2009/2010 season witnessed a fierce battle between Manchester United and Chelsea. Man United, aiming for a fourth consecutive title, lost Cristiano Ronaldo in the summer. Chelsea's 2-1 victory at Old Trafford helped secure the title, as they finished one point ahead of United. Chelsea's emphatic 8-0 win over Wigan on the final day sealed their first title since 2006.

8. 2007/2008: Man United vs Chelsea vs Arsenal

The 2007/2008 season showcased another thrilling title race. Manchester United clinched the title on the final day after defeating Wigan 2-0, while Chelsea drew with Bolton. Arsenal's challenge faded after a series of setbacks, including a horror injury to Eduardo. United's victory in the Champions League final against Chelsea added to the excitement of their title triumph.

9. 1995/1996: Man United vs Newcastle

In the 1995/1996 season, Manchester United reclaimed the title after a fierce battle with Newcastle. Newcastle had a 12-point lead at the start of 1996 but collapsed in the second half of the season, finishing four points behind United. The memorable clash between the two teams showcased the pressure and intensity of a title race.

10. 1994/1995: Blackburn vs Man United

Blackburn Rovers' triumph in the 1994/1995 season completes our list. Blackburn, led by manager Kenny Dalglish, pipped Manchester United to the title on the final day. Despite losing 2-1 to Liverpool, Blackburn finished one point ahead of United. This underdog story remains etched in the memory of football fans.

These top 10 Premier League title races have provided us with unforgettable moments of drama, excitement, and pressure. They exemplify the competitiveness and thrill that make the Premier League one of the greatest football leagues in the world.

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Alex Johnson
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Alex Johnson is a dynamic and insightful sports journalist with a deep expertise in Premier League football. His vibrant writing brings a unique perspective to football analysis and reporting.

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