Arsenal recorded an eighth consecutive Premier League win for the first time under Mikel Arteta, following a dramatic 2-1 win over Brentford at the Emirates Stadium.
Many had written the North London side out of the race for the league title at the start of the year, as Arsenal lost three in a row across league and cup. Now they sit top of the table with 10 games to go and head into a Champions League knock-out second-leg at the Emirates Stadium, the first since 2017.
After a tough start to 2024, Arsenal headed off to Dubai during their winter break and since returning, they have a 100% record. So how has he changed Arsenal from last season’s pretenders to serious contenders in 2024?
SOLID DEFENCE
No team in the Premier League has a better defence than Arsenal. Of course William Saliba’s presence is the obvious difference, after his crucial injury side-tracked last season’s title push. But as a unit, Arsenal are a very well-drilled team off the ball.
Jakob Kiwior has the made left-back role his own, allowing Ben White to be the more advanced of the full-backs which is already paying dividends with his two assists vs Brentford. Fewest shots faced, fewest conceded and fewest XG allowed in 2024, Arsenal may have another brilliant back-four on their hands.
Embed from Getty ImagesMENTALITY
If the game isn’t over in the first 30 minutes, Arsenal are striking a winner late-on. Only Aston Villa have more goals [21] in the first 30 minutes than the Gunners [20] this season. Only Liverpool [17] have more goals after the 80th minute than Arsenal [14] this campaign.
Last year, Arsenal made a habit of late comebacks which became unsustainable, but proving they can do both means they are becoming a more well-rounded side.
BIG GAME WINS
Arsenal’s record against the ‘Big Six’ has improved immensely during Arteta’s reign. For years, when Arsenal faced their rivals they would crumble more often than not, especially away from home.
But, this season they are unbeaten against them beating both Manchester City and Liverpool in the process. City have only beaten Manchester United, whilst Liverpool have just a win against Chelsea at Anfield. These battles will determine the destination of the title, as Arsenal travel to United, Tottenham and City during the run-in.
KAI HAVERTZ
The signing of the German international has brought many critics Arsenal’s way during the season. The majority thought he was replacing Granit Xhaka, however this never looked like the role made for a player like Havertz.
Goals against Brentford and Brighton at the end of 2023 provided promise for him being effective offensively, now he’s come into his own. Four goals and two assists in his last four games, he has equalled his best goal return for Chelsea in his first season in North London.
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