Arsenal are poised to collect a record financial reward after securing the 2025/26 Premier League crown, ending a 22‑year wait to become champions of England once again.
How Premier League Merit Payments Work
The Premier League distributes central payments to clubs based on final league positions through a merit‑based system. Under this arrangement, the champions receive 20 times the basic merit payment, while the runners‑up get 19 times that amount. The amount decreases progressively down to the team that finishes 20th.
Arsenal’s Record Payout
Last season each league position was valued at roughly £2.6 million. Liverpool, as champions, earned about £53.1 million in merit payments alone, while Southampton, who finished bottom, received approximately £2.6 million. With Arsenal now crowned champions, the Gunners are set to receive a similar figure – the largest Premier League prize cheque in the club’s history.
Celebrations and Looking Ahead
The title triumph sparked jubilant scenes across north London, with players reportedly leaving the Emirates Stadium around 5 am after the festivities. Arsenal will conclude their victorious campaign on Sunday when they visit Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park, where the home side are expected to give the new champions a guard of honour before kick‑off. Captain Martin Ødegaard is also anticipated to lift the Premier League trophy following the match.
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