Arsenal’s Malta Connection: Celebrating Premier League Triumph

In the heart of Sliema, Malta, a cheer erupted from a packed bar. The clock struck 9:45 PM, and Arsenal fans, gathered around a TV screen, let out a collective roar. Manchester City had drawn with West Ham, securing Arsenal’s Premier League title. The Gunners’ first league win in 19 years was a momentous occasion, even here, 1,800 miles away from the Emirates Stadium.

Malta’s Arsenal Connection

Malta’s love for Arsenal is no secret. The island nation has a significant Arsenal fanbase, with many Maltese supporting the Gunners since the 1980s. The connection is so strong that Arsenal even played a friendly match in Malta in 2012. So, when Arsenal clinched the title, Malta celebrated too.

In Valletta’s Republic Street, fans wearing Arsenal jerseys hugged each other, their chants echoing through the historic city center. “We’ve waited so long for this,” said Mario, a lifelong Arsenal fan from Birkirkara. “It’s not just about the title; it’s about the hope and joy it brings to so many Maltese fans.”

Local Heroes: Maltese Players in Arsenal’s Squad

Arsenal’s Malta connection runs deeper than fan support. The Gunners’ squad includes Maltese players, like defender Nuno Tavares and midfielder Miguel Azeez. Both players were born in Malta and started their careers here before moving to England.

Tavares, a left-back, joined Arsenal in 2021 and has since become a regular in the squad. Azeez, a versatile midfielder, is a product of Arsenal’s youth academy. Their presence in the squad has inspired Maltese fans, who see them as local heroes making it big in the Premier League.

Celebrations and

Back in Malta, celebrations continued into the night. From Paceville to Rabat, Arsenal flags waved, and chants of “We are the champions” echoed. The title win has reignited hope among Maltese fans, who now look forward to more success.

“This is just the beginning,” said Daniel, an Arsenal fan from Qormi. “We’ve waited so long, and now we want more. We want to see Arsenal at the top, challenging for every trophy.”

As for Arsenal, the focus now shifts to the FA Cup final and the Champions League. Manager Mikel Arteta will be hoping to build on this success, perhaps with more Maltese talent joining the squad. After all, as one Maltese fan put it, “Arsenal’s success is our success. We’re all Gooners here.”