Arsenal’s Title Ambition: "Over My Dead Body"
Mikel Arteta is not ready to throw in the towel on Arsenal’s Premier League title ambitions, despite a significant gap between his team and the leaders, Liverpool. The Gunners, who currently sit 11 points behind the reigning champions, suffered a disappointing 1-0 home defeat to West Ham last weekend, a result that many saw as the final nail in their title hopes. However, Arteta is determined to keep fighting, declaring, “Over my dead body” when asked if the title race is over. He acknowledges the herculean task ahead but remains resolute, emphasizing that the team will continue to strive for the required points to stay in contention. The Spanish manager is pragmatic about the challenges, noting that the probability of winning is still there, and the team must push to increase it, regardless of Liverpool’s lead or any unforeseen circumstances.
The Season’s Challenges and Resilience
Arsenal’s season has been marred by a series of setbacks, including key injuries and suspensions. Star players like Bukayo Saka, Ben White, Gabriel Jesus, Kai Havertz, and Gabriel Martinelli have all missed significant time due to injuries. Additionally, the team has had to cope with red cards to Myles Lewis-Skelly, Declan Rice, Leandro Trossard, and William Saliba. Despite these hurdles, Arteta is exceptionally proud of his team’s performance. From November 9, 2024, to February 16, 2025, Arsenal managed to match Liverpool’s record of 10 wins and five draws, with an identical goal difference of +23. This remarkable consistency, given the circumstances, is a testament to the team’s resilience and ambition. Arteta believes this run is one of his proudest moments as Arsenal’s manager, highlighting the team’s ability to perform under pressure and the depth of their squad.
The Impact of Injuries and Suspensions
The injury and suspension issues have significantly impacted Arsenal’s form. Bukayo Saka, one of the team’s most creative and dynamic players, has been a notable absentee. His absence has left a void in the midfield, where his energy and skill are sorely missed. Similarly, the loss of Gabriel Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli has weakened the attack, while Ben White’s injury has affected the defensive stability. The multiple red cards have also disrupted the team’s rhythm, forcing them to play with fewer men and often leading to crucial goals conceded. These challenges have made it difficult for Arsenal to maintain the same level of performance and competitive edge they displayed earlier in the season. However, Arteta’s team has shown remarkable adaptability and fighting spirit, which he hopes to leverage in the remaining matches to close the gap on Liverpool.
Facing Nottingham Forest: A Crucial Test
Ahead of their upcoming match against Nottingham Forest, Arteta is urging his players to stay focused and maintain their determination. The Gunners need a strong performance to keep their title hopes alive, even if the odds are stacked against them. Nottingham Forest, while not at the top of the table, will be a formidable opponent, and a win is crucial to keep the pressure on Liverpool. Arteta is confident in his side’s abilities and believes that their recent consistency and resilience will serve them well. The players are well aware of the stakes and the importance of each game, having experienced the swift changes in fortune that can occur in football. Arteta’s message is clear: they must continue to fight and give their best performance in every match, regardless of the outcome.
Player Ratings: A Mixed Bag
Arsenal’s performance against West Ham was a mixed bag, with several players failing to meet the high standards set earlier in the season. Goalkeeper David Raya, who came in for an injured Aaron Ramsdale, received a rating of 5. He was criticized for his positioning on the goal, though his defenders also played a part in the mistake. Jurrien Timber and William Saliba were both rated 6, with Timber having a relatively comfortable game and Saliba showing ambition to push forward but delivering a poor cross late in the match. Riccardo Calafiori, who started at left-back, was rated 4 and was at fault for the opening goal. Declan Rice, Thomas Partey, Ethan Nwaneri, Martin Ødegaard, and Leandro Trossard all received ratings of 5, reflecting their subpar performances. Mikel Merino, despite being a makeshift striker, also struggled, earning a 5. The substitutes, including Myles Lewis-Skelly, who received a red card, and Oleksandr Zinchenko, were rated 4 and 6, respectively.
Looking Ahead: Champions League and Domestic Recovery
Despite the setback in the Premier League, Arsenal still have a lot to play for. They are in the Champions League last 16, set to face PSV Eindhoven next week, and their third-place finish in the new league phase format is a significant achievement. Arteta is hopeful that the team can use the Champions League as a platform to regain their confidence and form. The upcoming matches against Nottingham Forest and PSV will be crucial in determining whether Arsenal can mount a late-season push for the title or focus on securing a top-four finish and advancing in the Champions League. Arteta’s unwavering belief in his team and their potential is a source of inspiration for the players, who will need to summon all their resources and spirit to turn things around in the remaining games of the season.
