When it comes to North London football, few rivalries spark as much passion as that between Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur—the 2024/25 season woven a thrilling tale for both clubs, with one focusing on domestic stability and the other seeking European glory. As we look back, the question lingers: Who truly emerged victorious in this season’s saga?
Arsenal: A Season of Consistent Promise
Under the astute guidance of Mikel Arteta, Arsenal continued to rise, finishing second in the Premier League for the third straight year. While that might paint a picture of near misses, their campaign was anything but lacklustre.
The Gunners dominated the pitch, clinching 20 league wins and suffering only four defeats, all while boasting the league’s best defence, allowing a mere 34 goals to slip past. Their style was a spectacle—fluid and aggressive, with Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli lighting up the wings. Martin Ødegaard expertly conducted the midfield, while Declan Rice brought added grit and leadership, and William Saliba anchored a rock-solid defence.
On the European front, Arsenal made a remarkable run in the Champions League, reaching the semi-finals for the first time since 2009. They shocked many by dispatching Real Madrid with a staggering 5–1 aggregate in the quarters, only to come up short against Paris Saint-Germain in the semis. Domestically, however, they stumbled in both the FA Cup and the EFL Cup, exiting in the third round with their trophy cabinet remaining bare.
Despite the absence of silverware, the Gunners’ season showcased their commitment to long-term vision, squad growth, and tactical evolution. They were consistently competitive, tantalizingly close to seizing glory.
Tottenham: A Rollercoaster Ride of Despair and Delight
Tottenham’s season was a dramatic tale of two contrasting narratives.
In the domestic arena, they faced a nightmare, finishing a shocking 17th in the Premier League, marking their lowest finish in nearly 50 years. Under Ange Postecoglou, consistency eluded them, resulting in just 11 victories over 38 matches, which ultimately led to his job being terminated.
Yet, amidst the chaos, Spurs pulled off an extraordinary feat: they clinched the UEFA Europa League title! Their 1–0 win over Manchester United in the final marked a historic moment, ending a 17-year trophy drought and securing the club’s first European title in 41 years. Brennan Johnson’s unforgettable goal will forever be etched in the hearts of the fans, a long-awaited moment of euphoria.
This Europa League triumph not only secured Tottenham a spot in the 2025/26 Champions League but also paved their way to the UEFA Super Cup. It heralded the dawn of a new era under Thomas Frank, who now faces the daunting task of reshaping a squad that struggled domestically yet proved resilient on the European stage.
Measuring Success: Trophies vs. Trajectory
So, how do we measure success this season?
If the yardstick is silverware, Tottenham claims the crown with their thrilling Europa League victory—historic, emotional, and transformative. It marked a joyful end to a long wait for a trophy, bringing a tangible sense of achievement to the club.
However, if we define success through the lens of consistency, growth, and long-term potential, Arsenal’s season shines brighter. They were title contenders until the final weeks, showcasing some of the league’s most exhilarating football and advancing to the Champions League semi-finals. Arteta’s vision is taking shape, and the team is poised to challenge for the title once again next season.
Tottenham’s European triumph was undeniably memorable, but the turmoil in the domestic league overshadowed it. Meanwhile, Arsenal displayed elite performance across the board—just not quite enough to hoist a trophy.
The Verdict
Ultimately, both clubs can claim a form of success. Tottenham gave their fans a monumental night in Bilbao and a trophy to savour. Conversely, Arsenal gifted their supporters a season filled with pride, progress, and promise.
But if we’re to name one club as the standout success story, the nod goes to Arsenal. Their consistency, defensive strength, and European adventure reflect a club firing on all cylinders across multiple fronts. Tottenham’s triumphant night was heartwarming, but Arsenal’s campaign serves as a powerful blueprint for sustained excellence and ambition.
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