Premier League Wobblers: Teams That Let the Title Slip Away

In the Premier League, teams that fail to maintain their lead and win the title are often labeled as "bottlers" by rival fans. Arsenal, a team that has faced this criticism over the years, is determined to overcome this reputation. However, they are not the only ones who have let the league slip from their grasp. Let's explore some of the top flight's biggest wobblers with the help of BBC Sport statistician Chris Collinson.

Tottenham Hotspur's 2015-16 season saw them in a promising position to win the title, but Leicester City's unexpected surge to the top left Spurs in third place. Norwich City led the league for a significant period in the 1992-93 season before Manchester United overtook them. Liverpool's impressive 2018-19 campaign, with 97 points, was overshadowed by Manchester City's superior performance.

Arsenal's 2002-03 season and 2007-08 season saw them squander leads to Manchester United and Chelsea, respectively. In 2022-23, Arsenal spent the most days at the top of the Premier League without winning it, ultimately losing out to Manchester City. Manchester United's 1997-98 season saw them lose the title to Arsenal after a late surge by the Gunners.

Liverpool's 2013-14 season, marked by Steven Gerrard's slip against Chelsea, ended in disappointment as they failed to secure the title. Manchester United's 2011-12 season witnessed Sergio Aguero's last-minute heroics for Manchester City, snatching the title from United's grasp. Newcastle United's 1995-96 season, with Kevin Keegan's iconic outburst, remains one of the most memorable instances of a team letting the title slip away.

These examples highlight the unpredictable nature of the Premier League and the challenges teams face in maintaining their lead to secure the title. Despite the heartbreak of falling short, these teams continue to strive for success and redemption in future seasons.