Can Arsenal Secure Premier League Title Without a Star Striker?
Arsenal is currently at the top of the Premier League table, yet they face a significant challenge: scoring goals in open play. Their recent match against Manchester United highlighted this issue as they lost 3-2 while struggling to create clear chances. Despite their dominance in possession, Arsenal’s offensive output remains concerning.
Arsenal’s Goal Scoring Challenges
This season, Arsenal has scored only 22 goals from open play over 23 matches. In comparison, teams like Manchester City, Liverpool, and Manchester United have surpassed them with 36, 28, and 26 goals, respectively. This statistic is glaring given that Arsenal boasts a diverse range of attacking talents.
- Arsenal’s goals from different sources:
- Set pieces
- Own goals
- Penalties
The team’s inability to finish scoring opportunities highlights a pressing need for an exceptional forward. Historically, Premier League title-winning teams have had standout attackers who significantly contributed to their scoring efforts.
The Role of Key Players
Leandro Trossard leads Arsenal this season with nine goal contributions, consisting of five goals and four assists. While Trossard is a capable player, ideally, he should complement a title challenge rather than serve as the primary offensive force.
Bukayo Saka and Martin Ødegaard, who have been Arsenal’s standout players in past seasons, also face challenges. Saka, hindered by injuries, has accumulated only seven goal contributions this season, while Ødegaard has managed just four. Their previous partnerships, once the league’s best, are struggling to regain peak form.
Statistical Background
The disparity in goal contributions among Arsenal’s players raises eyebrows. Historical data underscores that a leading contributor’s output is typically much higher for title-winning teams. For instance, Kevin De Bruyne’s 18 contributions in the 2020-21 season were instrumental, earning him the PFA Player of the Year award.
Arteta’s tactical approach may be constraining these players. However, he is utilizing Saka and Ødegaard in familiar positions, which raises questions about why their performance has dipped.
Missing Pieces in the Squad
Injuries have also impacted Arsenal’s performance. Kai Havertz, while not prolific, adds crucial link play absent from other forwards. Additionally, Ben White’s fitness is vital; his overlapping runs contribute significantly to the team’s attacking cohesion, especially with Saka and Ødegaard.
Arteta’s recent tactical adjustments, including the introduction of White, indicate ongoing efforts to improve the offensive output. Despite their strong position—four points clear at the top—Arsenal will need pivotal performances from their attackers to secure the Premier League title.
Conclusion
For Arsenal to maintain their title hopes, they need star players to rise to the occasion. With quality depth within the squad, someone must step up effectively, reminiscent of past legends like Marc Overmars and Freddie Ljungberg. The current season is still up for grabs, but a surge in individual brilliance from their attackers will be key.
