Merino: Team spirit helped us win the championship, achieving our goal of lifting the trophy.

Goals from Jesus and Maduk secured a 2-1 victory for Arsenal over Crystal Palace in the 38th round of the 2025/26 Premier League season, lifting the title and concluding the season on a high note. Merino stated that the players' collective spirit and solidarity in facing challenges helped the team achieve its championship goal.

Martinelli played a through ball into the penalty area in the 42nd minute of the first half, and Jesus, despite the defense, fired a low shot into the net, giving Arsenal a 1-0 lead. In the 48th minute of the second half, Arsenal took a corner kick, Havertz headed the ball across, and Maduk volleyed it into the net, extending Arsenal's lead over Crystal Palace to 2-0.

In the 89th minute, Jeremy Pino chipped a pass into the penalty area, and Mateta headed the ball into the net, helping Crystal Palace pull one back to 1-2.

Arsenal ultimately defeated Crystal Palace 2-1 away from home. After the match, manager Mikel Arteta and his players were crowned champions.

Merino, who returned to the field after recovering from injury, said, "It feels amazing, like a dream come true, and this trophy is really heavy. This group of players put in a tremendous effort to win this trophy, as did the fans. It is an honor to be a part of this team, to be one of the members who helped the team bring the Premier League title back to the Emirates Stadium. I really can't put words into it."

“When outsiders watch us on TV, they may just think of us as another team. But if they get up close and personal with us, they will see what this team is like every day at the training base. They will see that these players are actually a group of friends and a big family, and that is the most important thing about this club.”

Merino stated, "We are building a very strong team, a team that stands together and overcomes problems when faced with difficulties. This season we have proven that it is this spirit of unity that helped us win the championship."

“I don’t have any more to ask for. It would be perfect if I could score a goal. But to be honest, after such a long period of time and a slump, I don’t know if I can come back, or how long the injury will last. I’m also worried that I might miss the final stage of the season.”

In addition, Melino said, "It feels amazing to be a part of all this again, to be on the grass and with my teammates. They have all given me tremendous support, and I am very grateful to them, my family, and the fans who have supported me during this time."

Image source: Internet