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Unless you’ve been in hiding over the last few months, you’ll be fully aware of the exciting end to the season that is unfolding in the Premier League right now. Not only is it tight down at the bottom of the table, but the title race is shaping up to be one of the most memorable climaxes we could be treated to in years. Alongside creating leagues and listening to podcasts, sports fans everywhere are gearing up for what promises to be a fascinating finish in England’s top flight.
One team that is in with a strong chance of reigning supreme is Arsenal, with last season’s title collapse being replaced by a hunger to succeed under a manager the players are clearly still playing for. In fact, despite many football lovers selecting Manchester City’s notable world-class stars for their fantasy football squads and backing Liverpool for the title when it comes to betting, many members of the football fraternity also believe that Mikel Arteta’s side have the ingredients needed to get the job done this season.
After all, the Gunners are showcasing their title credentials on a weekly basis right now and look far stronger this time around. As such, we could easily be witnessing a title-winning campaign, particularly given the encouraging developments that fans of the North London giants are currently witnessing. In case you need further convincing, though, then let’s take a look at some of the key reasons why Arsenal can win the Premier League this season and end 20 long years of hurt in the process.
A more resolute defence has been built
Last season, at times, Arsenal’s leaky defence hindered the team’s title prospects. This was particularly on show when William Saliba picked up a season-ending injury that coincided with poor form, which ultimately resulted in the team gifting the Premier League title to Manchester City. This time around, though, Arteta’s troops have conceded far fewer goals than the 43 strikes that Aaron Ramsdale picked out of his net last season. Now, with stronger competition for places, coupled with more protection in front of the defense thanks to the acquisition of midfield enforcers like Declan Rice, Arsenal is a much tougher nut to crack. The defensive solidity that has been established has certainly aided their title prospects, with the Gunners keeping up with both Liverpool and Manchester City and providing plenty of hope that a sustained title challenge is a more realistic aim this time around.
A stronger all-round squad
While Arsenal’s reliable defense has been a key reason for their notable evolution this campaign, the strength and depth in the squad are also on another level. From Jurrien Timber being able to slot into the backline with ease to Kai Havertz chipping in with the odd goal and showing Chelsea what they rarely saw, the competition for places has clearly created a healthy and competitive environment for Arsenal’s players to thrive in. In the past, certain players were nailed starters and had little to worry about when it came to being replaced. Now, though, Arteta appears to have found the missing pieces to the puzzle, with Arsenal being far less reliant on certain players and having numerous options all over the pitch.
Gunners now capable of handling grueling campaign
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Following on from the last point referring to Arsenal’s new and improved squad, this increase in quality and competition for places has also resulted in a more adaptable squad for Mikel Arteta to work with. Last season, the Gunners were mightily impressive at times, but they became too predictable on occasions. Players also became stale, and Mikel Arteta didn’t have the tools needed to execute a more flexible approach to tactics. Now, though, given the abundance of options that the Spanish boss has to work with, Arsenal is now a more flexible outfit. Instead of running players into the ground and playing with the same system on a weekly basis, Arteta can chop and change things depending on the opposition, with the Gunners now being well-resourced and more than ready for whatever any opponent has to offer.
Goals being shared around the team
Another reason behind Arsenal’s increased chances of Premier League success this season is undoubtedly the goals they now have in the team. While the team’s aforementioned defensive solidity has also played a part, the North London giants have put numerous sides to the sword in some style this season. In the past, a reliance on the likes of Bukayo Saka became an issue, particularly given his relative inexperience at the time. This season, though, Saka’s output has been supplemented by a good amount of goals from the likes of Leandro Trossard, Martin Ødegaard, Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus, and Gabriel Martinelli. Put simply, there are dangers all over the pitch for Arsenal, with threats popping up in a variety of positions. Even set pieces have improved, with the Gunners’ defensive stalwarts, such as Gabriel, also chipping in. In the past, when teams would try to stifle Saka in an attempt to see off Arsenal, it would work on occasions. However, nowadays, there are far more options on a side that is full of goals.
Confidence is high again
After blowing their title chances last season, the Gunners appear to be hungrier and more confident than ever before. Staying cool, calm, and composed during the next few weeks will be vital for Arsenal, particularly given the team’s tough schedule against some of the more dangerous sides in the Premier League. Giant strides have clearly been made, though, and with confidence seemingly high, Mikel Arteta’s side won’t be fearing any team they come up against. While Liverpool and Manchester City are two excellent teams in their own right, neither side has shown the same type of consistency as Arsenal this season. The Gunners’ confidence is back, and that makes them a formidable outfit once again.
