Arsenal has failed to win the English football championship on all seven of the most recent occasions they led at Christmas. This includes four instances in the Premier League era, where they conceded their advantage to Man Utd (in the 2002-2003 and 2007-2008 seasons) and Man City (in 2022-2023 and 2023-2024). The Gunners last secured the title after leading the table over the festive period in the 1947-1948 season.

Across 126 national championship seasons since 1888, only 44% of teams leading at Christmas ultimately became champions. In the Premier League era, which began in the 1992-1993 season, this rate rises to 51.5%. Specifically, over the past 33 seasons, 17 clubs celebrated the title, while 16 others faltered in the later stages.

Viktor Gyokeres celebrates a goal in Arsenal's 1-0 win against Everton in matchday 17 of the Premier League at Hill Dickinson Stadium, Vauxhall, England on 20/12. Photo: PA Wire

However, Arsenal also holds the record for the biggest points deficit overcome to win the Premier League. In the 1997-1998 season, the Gunners were 13 points behind Man Utd at Christmas but still claimed the title with 78 points, one point ahead of their rivals. Similarly, in the 1995-1996 season, Man Utd trailed table-toppers Newcastle by 10 points at this juncture but went on to win the championship.

Conversely, the record for the lowest position at Christmas yet still winning the championship belongs to Man City. In the 2020-2021 season, Pep Guardiola's squad ranked 8th on 25/12 but surged in the second half of the season to win the title with 86 points, 12 points clear of Man Utd.

Meanwhile, the unwanted record for a club leading the Premier League at Christmas and then finishing lowest belongs to Aston Villa, who dropped to 6th in the 1998-1999 season.

Arsenal currently sits atop the table with 39 points, two points ahead of Man City and three points clear of Aston Villa. In matchday 18 this weekend, the Gunners will face Brighton, Man City will visit Nottingham Forest, and Aston Villa will travel to Chelsea.

Asked about the significance of leading after 17 matches, coach Mikel Arteta stated: "My belief comes from performance and consistency. That is very difficult in this league. We will focus on the next match, improve, and maintain the team's spirit and energy."

Compiled by Hong Duy