The Most Dramatic Premier League Title Race Collapses

The Premier League has seen its share of shocking late-season collapses from title favorites over the years. As Liverpool currently leads Arsenal by 12 points with just weeks remaining in the 2023-24 season, it’s worth remembering that even big leads aren’t always safe. Let’s look back at some of the most dramatic instances of teams squandering seemingly comfortable advantages in the title race:

1. Newcastle’s 12-Point Lead Evaporates (1995-96)

Kevin Keegan’s high-flying Newcastle side built up a massive 12-point lead by mid-January. But a late-season stumble, including key losses to title rivals Manchester United, allowed Alex Ferguson’s men to overtake them and claim the trophy. Keegan’s infamous “I would love it if we beat them!” rant epitomized Newcastle’s collapse under pressure.

2. Manchester United Fail to Close Out 1997-98 Season

United led Arsenal by 11 points with two months left, but Arsene Wenger’s side went on a 10-match winning streak to steal the title. Key United dropped points against Liverpool, Newcastle and Arsenal sealed their fate. The Gunners won the league by a single point.

3. Arsenal’s Late Stumble Hands United 2002-03 Title

The defending champion Gunners looked set to retain their crown, but a late draw at Bolton followed by a shock home loss to Leeds allowed Ferguson’s United to pip them at the post. Arsenal went from title favorites to runners-up in a matter of weeks.

4. Liverpool’s Gerrard Slip Costs 2013-14 Title

Liverpool had destiny in their own hands with three games left, but Steven Gerrard’s infamous slip against Chelsea followed by a 3-3 draw at Crystal Palace opened the door for Manchester City. The Reds came agonizingly close but fell short of their first Premier League title.

These dramatic collapses show that no lead is truly safe until the trophy is lifted. As the current season enters its final stretch, both Liverpool and Arsenal would do well to remember the lessons of Premier League history.