Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta admitted he lost control when Reiss Nelson scored the sensational 3-2 winner over Bournemouth in the seventh minute of stoppage time on Saturday.
The stands of the Emirates Stadium caught fire and Arsenal substitutes stormed the field, while Nelson directed a karate kick towards the side flag in celebration of the goal, and Arteta was in a state of ecstasy.
No wonder, because the victory came after Arsenal trailed 2-0, keeping leaders Arteta within five points of chasing Manchester City, with 12 Premier League matches remaining.
The Spanish coach acknowledged that it was the most emotional moment he had experienced since returning to the club as coach.
He said: It is perhaps the most tumultuous and emotional moment we have lived, the journey we take together and how the fans mingled with the players, in addition to the important moment, was very special.
He added: When the winning goal came, I lost consciousness. I started running and didn’t really know where to run. I just looked at everyone’s faces, the staff, the players and the fans with all the joy in their eyes. It’s wonderful to live this experience. It was an amazing day and a beautiful experience.
The result seems pivotal to the title struggle and positive to increase the fans’ sense of optimism that Arsenal will win its first league title since 2004.
Arsenal’s way of responding was charming, after conceding a quick goal in the first ten seconds, and then trailing 2-0 with Marcus Sensi’s header.
Thomas Partey and substitute Ben White scored before Nelson snatched the win after coming on as a substitute with almost the last shot of the match.
Former Arsenal title winner Paul Merson believes this is a defining moment in the league race.
Merson told Sky Sports: I think he will win the league, he keeps progressing and I don’t know when he will lose.
Arsenal will play its next league matches against Fulham, Crystal Palace and Leeds United before visiting Liverpool.
