Arsenal have been the most consistent team in the Premier League this season. They haven’t dropped points against teams like West Brom due to dumb mistakes, or failed to score against teams like Norwich City.
Against those in the mid-table and below, Arsenal always seem to have what it takes. They’ve won a lot of games 2-0 this season, because they’ve been set-up well, have been organised and have enough creativity in their midfield to create chances.
But the Gunners are consistent in another way too: they just can’t seem to beat the big teams. In fact, they seem to have a real mental block in this department.
Apart from a 2-0 victory over Liverpool earlier this season, Arsenal have struggled to perform against the big boys. The fact that they’ve now picked up two drubbings is a little worrying.
The 6-3 defeat at the hands of Manchester City was the first sign that all was not well in the Arsenal camp. But at least in that case Arsenal fans were granted the solace of having scored three goals against a fellow title rival.
There was to be no such consolation last weekend as Arsenal lost 5-1 to Liverpool. The result and the game came as a real slap in the face to Arsenal fans and Arsene Wenger. It’s now clear that if the Gunners take their foot off the gas for a second during this tough period, they’re going to get themselves into real trouble.
Here’s what Arsene Wenger said after the game:
“It raises questions that we have to answer on Wednesday night [against Manchester United]. I still think we can win the league because mathematically it is possible. It is always what you make of a defeat that decides your future. We have a lot to answer and a lot of answers to find,” he added.
It is perhaps better I don’t talk too much and get on and respond well against Manchester United on Wednesday because I include myself in that performance.” (Source: The BBC)
Of course, Arsenal are still in the title race. Manchester City’s draw against Norwich City has certainly helped with that. But if the Gunners lose to Manchester United, they might as well forget it. You can’t win the Premier League title without nabbing some points from your competitors.
I don’t know what’s causing the Gunners mental block, but if it isn’t fixed soon then the club will be left to rue yet another missed opportunity.
What’s your take? Can the Gunners compete with the top clubs?
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