Looking Deeper at Arsenal’s Recent Struggles | OneFootball

Arsenal’s Season Hangs in the Balance: The Fight to Prevent a Fading Finish

As the Premier League season pushes into its critical final stages, Arsenal’s resolve is once again under the microscope. After a disheartening exit from the Champions League following a narrow 1-0 defeat at the hands of Bayern Munich, the question looms large: can Arsenal prevent another late-season fade?

Late-Season Stumbles: A Trend Arsenal Must Reverse

In recent years, Arsenal’s campaign has consistently lost momentum in its concluding phases. Last season saw them win a mere three of their last nine fixtures, while the 2021-22 season wasn’t much better, with only six wins in the final twelve. Such declines could not just repeat but become a distressing trend if not addressed. “I wish I had the right words today to make the players feel better,” lamented Mikel Arteta in the aftermath of their latest European disappointment. Yet, the real challenge lies ahead—ensuring this setback does not lead to a collapse in their domestic campaign.

Despite not playing poorly in Munich, Arsenal’s performance over both legs of the tie didn’t scream of a side deserving progression. Arteta reflected on the match, stating, “It was a tie of very small margins. In the first leg, we conceded two very poor goals. That has a big effect on the tie. We were still alive and came here today. I’m really proud of the players. How they stood up, the way they played and what they tried to do, especially in the first half. It was a game where you could see an error, or an individual magic moment was going to decide the tie.”

The Missing Spark in Arsenal’s Attack

The Champions League highlighted a glaring issue in Arsenal’s setup: the absence of maverick match-winners. While the team has exhibited exceptional organisation and robustness, the spark necessary to unlock tight games has been notably absent. “It’s true that we lacked the magic to unlock the game and open that door when the game requires,” Arteta conceded. The summer may provide an opportunity to remedy this shortfall.

Photo: IMAGO

Recurring Errors and Psychological Hurdles

Another source of frustration for Arteta and the Arsenal faithful has been the unforced errors leading to goals. These lapses, apparent in both legs against Bayern, which culminated in a 3-2 aggregate loss, underscore a need for greater mental fortitude and consistency.

Reflecting on the broader implications of their European exit, Arteta added, “What me and all the coaching staff are going to do is be close to the players. I feel so grateful to be their coach and work with them every day. What we need to do is stand right next to them, give them our support and our love. We have to pick it up because we have a big, big game on Saturday. We’re still playing for the Premier League and we really want it and we have to show we’re capable of turning it around. I can guarantee you by tomorrow we’re fully focused on Wolves and everybody is lifted. What we still have to play for is beautiful.”

A Premier League Title Still Within Reach

Despite the setbacks, Arsenal’s Premier League journey is far from over. With six games remaining, starting with a crucial encounter at Molineux, the Gunners are not out of the title race. However, with Manchester City holding a game in hand, every match is now a must-win to keep their title hopes alive. The recent exit of Real Madrid from the Champions League only intensifies the pressure, allowing City to focus solely on domestic challenges.

Arsenal’s season, rich in promise and progress, faces its ultimate test. Will they surge over the finish line, or stumble as they have in seasons past? The narrative of fading when it matters most is one they are desperate to change. It’s not just about points and positions; it’s about proving their progress, protecting their pride, and possibly, lifting the Premier League trophy.