The Premier League has delivered iconic title races over the years. Some teams have defied the odds to claw their way back to glory. Here are some of the most memorable comebacks in Premier League history.
Manchester City (8.99), Chelsea (17.21) and Arsenal (3.78) will be looking for some inspiration in the Premier League title race after falling well behind Liverpool (1.58). However, there have been some superb comebacks in title races before which they can look to for inspiration. It may be of interest to soccer betting enthusiasts that one came from Pep Guardiola’s City against the current league leaders themselves.
Manchester City (2011/12)
Key moment: Aguero’s last-minute winner
Manchester City’s 2011/12 Premier League triumph is etched in history as one of the most dramatic and unforgettable comebacks in the sport. Trailing Manchester United by eight points with just six games to go, City’s title hopes seemed all but lost. However, under Roberto Mancini’s leadership, the team embarked on an extraordinary run, a crucial 1-0 victory over United that kept their dreams alive.
The final day of the season delivered unprecedented drama. United had already beaten Sunderland and appeared poised to lift the trophy, while City were shockingly trailing 2-1 to Queens Park Rangers deep into stoppage time. In a heart-stopping finish, Edin Džeko equalised, and Sergio Aguero then produced an iconic last-minute winner, his goal sparking wild celebrations as City clinched a 3-2 victory. The title, decided on goal difference, marked City’s first Premier League triumph and ushered in a new era of dominance. Aguero’s unforgettable strike remains one of the most celebrated moments in Premier League history.
Arsenal (1997/98)
Key moment: Overturning Manchester United’s lead
Arsenal’s 1997/98 Premier League triumph stands as one of the most extraordinary comebacks in soccer history. It showcases the grit and genius of Arsène Wenger in his first full season. By December, the Gunners were a daunting 13 points behind Manchester United, a team that had dominated the league under Sir Alex Ferguson. What followed was a remarkable turnaround—a streak of 15 wins and three draws in their final 18 games. It included a season-defining 1-0 victory at Old Trafford, where Marc Overmars scored a goal that shifted the title race.
Wenger’s impact was revolutionary, a seamless blend of attacking flair and defensive discipline. It has transformed the league with its modernized approach to training, nutrition, and tactics. More importantly. key players like Dennis Bergkamp, Patrick Vieira, and Overmars elevated their performances, embodying the resilience and brilliance of a team that refused to give up. Arsenal not only clawed their way back but sealed the title with two games to spare, breaking United’s hold on the league. This victory redefined English soccer, proving that no deficit was insurmountable with determination, vision, and the right leadership.
Manchester United (1995/96)
Key moment: Keegan’s famous rant
Manchester United’s 1995/96 Premier League title win remains a masterclass in resilience and mental strength. At the halfway mark, Newcastle United, managed by Kevin Keegan, looked unstoppable, holding a commanding 12-point lead over Sir Alex Ferguson’s United by January. However, Ferguson’s team mounted an extraordinary comeback, clawing their way back into the race with consistent performances and critical victories.
The turning point came in March with a gritty 1-0 win at St James’ Park, piling immense pressure on Newcastle. The tension culminated in Keegan’s now-legendary “I would love it!” rant, an emotional outburst that symbolised the growing cracks in his team’s title challenge. Newcastle faltered under the weight of expectations, while United kept their nerve to overtake them and lift the trophy. This comeback exemplified Ferguson’s ability to inspire his players and outlast even the most dominant rivals.
Manchester City (2018/19)
Key moment: 14-game winning streak
Manchester City’s 2018/19 Premier League triumph was a showcase of Pep Guardiola’s tactical brilliance and his team’s unrelenting determination. The season saw an epic title race between City and Liverpool, with Liverpool leading by seven points in January and appearing destined to end their long title drought.
City, however, refused to relent. They embarked on a stunning 14-game winning streak, showcasing consistency and composure under immense pressure. The race went down to the wire, with City edging out Liverpool by a single point to retain their title. This victory highlighted Guardiola’s mastery. Moreover, it also underlined City’s resilience and ability to thrive in one of the most fiercely contested title battles in Premier League history.
Manchester City (2022/23)
Key moment: Arsenal’s April collapse
The 2022/23 season showcased Manchester City’s dominance and resilience. Arsenal had led the league for most of the campaign. Furthermore, by early April, Mikel Arteta’s side were in pole position to win their first title since 2004.
Then came April, a month Arsenal fans would rather forget. A run of three draws against Liverpool, West Ham, and Southampton, followed by a crushing 4-1 defeat to Manchester City, derailed their hopes.
Meanwhile, City were relentless. Pep Guardiola’s team won 12 straight league games to overtake Arsenal and seal the title. They didn’t stop there, completing a historic treble with the FA Cup and Champions League.
This comeback demonstrated not just City’s quality but also the unforgiving nature of modern Premier League title races.
