It is evident why Arsenal has become a favorite among fans to capture the Premier League title this season. Comparing their performances against key rivals including Newcastle, West Ham, Fulham, and Crystal Palace, the Gunners have shown significant improvement. Last season, they dropped 10 points against these teams, ultimately finishing second with a sizable 10-point gap from champions Liverpool. In the current campaign, the Gunners have outperformed their past misfortunes by securing victories in all these matches.
Adding to their strong start, Arsenal defeated Manchester United, Liverpool, and Newcastle United away from home and faced Manchester City at home, yet still finds themselves four points clear at the top of the table, ahead of Bournemouth. This contrasts starkly with the struggles faced by traditional rivals, as for the first time since 1992, neither Manchester City nor United, Liverpool, or Chelsea occupy a top-four position at this point in the season.
Former Manchester City defender Nedum Onouha shared insights on BBC Radio 5 Live, debunking myths about Arsenal’s reliance on set pieces, stating that they rank among teams with the highest number of shots and the fewest goals conceded in the league. He commended their impressive start, emphasizing that their place atop the league standings is well-deserved.
Manager Mikel Arteta faced significant expectations at the beginning of the season, having invested around £250 million in eight new signings, all in pursuit of Arsenal’s first title since 2004. The investment appears to be paying off, as Arsenal boasts the league’s second-largest goal tally and the tightest defense despite dealing with several injuries.
Former Arsenal striker Theo Walcott praised the current squad, noting that they possess a versatile approach to the game and create a ‘fear factor’ among opponents. He expressed optimism about their ability to maintain strong defensive performances, stating that the club’s belief is now palpable. This sentiment was echoed by ex-Arsenal and England striker Ellen White, who referred to the team as a “juggernaut” that appears increasingly difficult to stop.
Arsenal’s trajectory this season signals a renewed hope for supporters, as they remain in contention for the Premier League title with a solid foundation built on strong performances. With the Gunners showing a balance of attacking flair and defensive resilience, fans can look forward to an exhilarating season filled with the potential for triumph.