Arsenal FC | 2022/23 Season

[Kroll]

I hope title isn't won based on forcefully removing points from another team. The timing of this seems fishy to me.

PS: If this is the case, challenge by Mamoon is null and void.

 

[Kroll]

As it is, I doubt they can remove points for this season as the investigation is for past seasons, so Arsenal may still have to earn their title

 

[topspin]

Man city in trouble for FFP breaches, hope they get points deducted this season.

Nah I don't want to win the title like that because it would take the gloss out of what Arteta and his players have achieved.

The season would be more famous for City's points deduction than Arsenal winning it.

 

[topspin]

If City are guilty of breaching FFP, throw them out of CL and perhaps make them start next season in the relegation zone with negative points.

 

[MenInG]

What about Chelsea? How have they not violated these rules?

 

[Kroll]

What about Chelsea? How have they not violated these rules?

As soon as this news broke, people have started talking about Chelsea. They'll be looking over their shoulder for sure.

 

[topspin]

What about Chelsea? How have they not violated these rules?

I did read somewhere that if Chelsea don't make the Champions League, they're in danger of breaching FFP rules because they need that additional revenue from this competition to meet the FFP requirements.

 

[Theo_14]

I admire [MENTION=131701]Mamoon[/MENTION] bold statement of title race being over and being convinced Arsenal will win the league. I think I still have PTSD from season 07/08 and season 10/11 (?) (When Leicester won the league.) So I can’t even imagine to say such thing. but in sha Allah we win the league. Long way to go.

What gives me more confidence is that we have finally added depth in Jan and slowly have players coming back from injuries Ie Nelson, ESR and Jesus. What is good is that teams around us are struggling and lacking identity though Manchester United are slowly building their case.

I think it’s about time Arteta drops Martinelli, his form has been terrible since the World Cup. Yes his role means he gets less cover than Saka but offensively he has been very isolated and one dimensional. Trossard needs to be given a run. Ben White has also been below par recently.

On the other hand, Balogun seems to be doing well in French league. Yes Lacca is performing like Messi in the league but Balogun is playing for a relatively poor side and it’s his first senior football. I definitely think we should sell him for a good fee with a buy back clause or send him out on loan in PL next year. Easily a £45m+ player now.

Another one to keep out on is Patino. He really is the next big thing.

 

[The_KING]

Bro I remember the days when you had Misbah as your display pic. The point is Misbah supporters should be the last people on Earth to be trolling fans of any sports team who perform at a high standard when you consider the number of times Misbah embarrassed the Pakistan cricket team.

Other than Mamoon, no one has claimed we have already won the league yet you keep parroting this like a broken record.

You make your trolling obvious for everyone to see with your last sentence because it makes no sense. Arsenal are only pursuing the PL. This is evident by the fact that most of the players who started the FA Cup against Man City were reserve players (Turner, Tomiyasu, Holding, Tierney, Vieria and Trossard).

In previous seasons, Arsenal placed greater importance on the FA Cup because we were not in the title race so it was our only realistic chance of securing silverware. If this is too difficult to grasp then I suggest changing role models because your hero Misbah was never the sharpest tool in the shed and his fans also exhibit his low IQ and awareness.

It's funny how Misbah still lives rent free in your head years after his retirement. )

Speaking of football terms, I am a Man United fan and I have seen my team perform at the highest stage in football, unlike your team who is still yet to win a Europa League, let alone a Champions League.

Arsenal fans that I know and ones that I have come across online are always going on about how important the FA cup is, and how it is "their" tournament. Now that Arsenal are out of it, all of a sudden, it doesn't mean anything. I bet if Arsenal were still in the FA cup, Arsenal fans will be talking about a potential league and cup double.

 

[topspin]

It's funny how Misbah still lives rent free in your head years after his retirement. )

Speaking of football terms, I am a Man United fan and I have seen my team perform at the highest stage in football, unlike your team who is still yet to win a Europa League, let alone a Champions League.

Arsenal fans that I know and ones that I have come across online are always going on about how important the FA cup is, and how it is "their" tournament. Now that Arsenal are out of it, all of a sudden, it doesn't mean anything. I bet if Arsenal were still in the FA cup, Arsenal fans will be talking about a potential league and cup double.

Even if this is somehow true then I suggest grasping what "banter" is as it appears to be alien concept for you. FA Cup isn't an important trophy especially for the big six. If you're going to be so gullible I suggest not exposing yourself like this on an online forum.

As for Misbah, it's about having standards. Anyone who supports him doesn't have any so should therefore be the last to utter a word about any half decent sports team let alone a Big Six Premier League side. It's one thing being his supporter but to have him as a display picture as if you're gonna worship him is just so cringeworthy that I actually pity you.

You could have put up Cantona, Rooney, Roy Keane or any other Man U legend but you opted for a serial failure in Misbah which strongly suggests to me that you don't have an eye for talent. This is also evident by the fact that prior to Ronaldo's interview with Piers Morgan, you always insisted he was superior to Messi. Anyone who is a credible reader of the game knew well before the World Cup who the real GOAT was out of the two but just like Misbah's poor awareness and slow strike rate, his fans like yourself are also slow to grasp the reality which is why no Misbah fan can ever be taken seriously with their views on any sport.

 

[Rana]

What about Chelsea? How have they not violated these rules?

All of their transfer business has been highly suspicious throughout

 

[The_KING]

Even if this is somehow true then I suggest grasping what "banter" is as it appears to be alien concept for you. FA Cup isn't an important trophy especially for the big six. If you're going to be so gullible I suggest not exposing yourself like this on an online forum.

As for Misbah, it's about having standards. Anyone who supports him doesn't have any so should therefore be the last to utter a word about any half decent sports team let alone a Big Six Premier League side. It's one thing being his supporter but to have him as a display picture as if you're gonna worship him is just so cringeworthy that I actually pity you.

You could have put up Cantona, Rooney, Roy Keane or any other Man U legend but you opted for a serial failure in Misbah which strongly suggests to me that you don't have an eye for talent. This is also evident by the fact that prior to Ronaldo's interview with Piers Morgan, you always insisted he was superior to Messi. Anyone who is a credible reader of the game knew well before the World Cup who the real GOAT was out of the two but just like Misbah's poor awareness and slow strike rate, his fans like yourself are also slow to grasp the reality which is why no Misbah fan can ever be taken seriously with their views on any sport.

"FA Cup isn't an important trophy especially for the big six." Oh dear).

FA Cup is an iconic trophy. In fact, your club did a parade after winning the FA Cup. But sure, it isn't an important trophy.

And I don't worship any sports star or athlete. Having a picture of Misbah as my display picture doesn't mean I worshipped him. My main reason was to annoy his serial haters like yourself.

And I have always stated that Messi is better than Ronaldo. I have held that opinion for years, long before the Piers Morgan interview.

 

[Firebat]

Arsenal, Liverpool and Newcastle are all interested in Ajax's Mexico midfielder Edson Alvarez, 25. (Caught Offside)

Arsenal could also have a clear run at a move for Real Sociedad's Spanish midfielder Martin Zubimendi, 24, this summer thanks to Barcelona turning their transfer focus elsewhere. (Mirror)

 

[SpiritOf1903]

Arsenal desperately need a win on Saturday otherwise the slump is terminal.

Got away with it last year by robbing Leeds and not losing at Southampton.

Maybe the luck is turning.

Meanwhile Balogun is Ligue 1 top scorer.

Considering Pepe cost 80m, I'm guessing he's worth 150m and will be sold for about 10m

 

[shaz619]

After City it will be Villa away which I think will be another tough test with old boss Unai Emery out for blood. [MENTION=46929]shaz619[/MENTION]

That will be interesting for sure, did he part you on bad terms? the city game is on Amazon Prime btw

 

[Rana]

Here’s to hoping Arsenal rack up 6 points in their next two home games,

Gain a virtual 12 point lead against City

And one hand on the league title.

It will be extremely, extremely hard for City to catch up 12 points with 16 games remaining in the season

 

[Kroll]

That will be interesting for sure, did he part you on bad terms? the city game is on Amazon Prime btw

Oh I don't support Arsenal but believe he got sacked so probably not.

 

[Kroll]

Here’s to hoping Arsenal rack up 6 points in their next two home games,

Gain a virtual 12 point lead against City

And one hand on the league title.

It will be extremely, extremely hard for City to catch up 12 points with 16 games remaining in the season

I think its going to be an interesting dogfight as I believe Arsenal will lose points against lesser teams as the lesser teams fight for their aims.

Looks as though City will too as Pep as lost the plot this season and needs to turn things around quickly. But no doubt these two matches will be pivotal.

 

[Rana]

I think its going to be an interesting dogfight as I believe Arsenal will lose points against lesser teams as the lesser teams fight for their aims.

Looks as though City will too as Pep as lost the plot this season and needs to turn things around quickly. But no doubt these two matches will be pivotal.

Even then, the same scenario applies on City who can drop points on the road. At some point they will mentally forfeit the league.

Every league campaign has that one, crucial point that can be definitive. The next two home games for Arsenal are that definitive point.

 

[Amjid Javed]

Got a feeling we may drop points vs Brentford. They are an in form well organised team with good strikers. There 3-5-2 means Arsenal will be playing against a low block.

Arteta needs to play Tierney and tomi vs teams with low blocks as getting extra space on wings and overlaps will be needed, neither white or zinny offer that.

Also the slow side to side passing from Arsenal needs to stop from last few games, ball has to be moved quicker. Also no silly mistakes at back as Toney will punish Arsenal if we do

 

[Mamoon]

It is normal for teams to go through a dip of form at some point. That might happen to Arsenal too, but the City is not going to win every game from this point either.

We heard this nonsense before the Spurs game as well and how City were supposed to be unstoppable now.

Arsenal‘s lead at the top is large enough to absorb a dip in form especially considering the fact that City are not done drawing and losing matches.

The title race is already done and dusted. Arsenal will be crowned champions -19 long years. At last.

 

[Mamoon]

Argentina winning the World Cup and Arsenal winning the league in the same season almost sounds poetic. Two beautiful, historic institutions of football waiting for so long for the glory days to return.

Scaloni was the youngest coach at the World Cup; Arteta is the youngest coach in the PL. Beautiful.

 

[Iqbal'sh]

Argentina winning the World Cup and Arsenal winning the league in the same season almost sounds poetic. Two beautiful, historic institutions of football waiting for so long for the glory days to return.

Scaloni was the youngest coach at the World Cup; Arteta is the youngest coach in the PL. Beautiful.

Don’t jinx it.
Pressure is going to ratchet up the closer they get to achieving the target and unfortunately, apart from the two ex City players, our squad has never experienced this type of situation

 

[Kroll]

Don’t jinx it.
Pressure is going to ratchet up the closer they get to achieving the target and unfortunately, apart from the two ex City players, our squad has never experienced this type of situation

It would only be a jinx if the title wasn't already signed, sealed and delivered.

 

[WengerOut]

Brentford, City, Villa. Have a feeling only 3 points from those. After that, meltdown and a dogfight with Man U for second. Everton game has completely killed it for me.

 

[Amjid Javed]

Arsenal have 6 home games in next 9 fixtures

Brentford, City, Everton, bournemouth, Palace, Leeds

And 3 away VIlla, Leicester, Fulham

Arsenal need to be looking at 5 wins at home and not losing the city game (draw minimum)

The 3 away games at tricky, but keeping home form is key here.

 

[topspin]

It is normal for teams to go through a dip of form at some point. That might happen to Arsenal too, but the City is not going to win every game from this point either.

We heard this nonsense before the Spurs game as well and how City were supposed to be unstoppable now.

Arsenal‘s lead at the top is large enough to absorb a dip in form especially considering the fact that City are not done drawing and losing matches.

The title race is already done and dusted. Arsenal will be crowned champions -19 long years. At last.

Given your confidence, you should book a plane ticket in advance for the parade in North London.

 

[topspin]

Argentina winning the World Cup and Arsenal winning the league in the same season almost sounds poetic. Two beautiful, historic institutions of football waiting for so long for the glory days to return.

Scaloni was the youngest coach at the World Cup; Arteta is the youngest coach in the PL. Beautiful.

Would be great if we can add to Argentina's success.

It would be a season known for the the humiliation of those who ridiculed Arteta and Messi. It's the humble pie they truly deserve.

 

[Kroll]

Argentina winning the World Cup and Arsenal winning the league in the same season almost sounds poetic. Two beautiful, historic institutions of football waiting for so long for the glory days to return.

Scaloni was the youngest coach at the World Cup; Arteta is the youngest coach in the PL. Beautiful.

Would be great if we can add to Argentina's success.

It would be a season known for the the humiliation of those who ridiculed Arteta and Messi. It's the humble pie they truly deserve.

I do like Arteta cos he used to play for Rangers. As far as Argentina is concerned, it was good due to the Messi factor but they are one of the dirtiest teams around. Even the antics of their goalie Martinez were cringe.

 

[topspin]

I do like Arteta cos he used to play for Rangers. As far as Argentina is concerned, it was good due to the Messi factor but they are one of the dirtiest teams around. Even the antics of their goalie Martinez were cringe.

I'm surprised that you like Arteta because I feel like you you're eagerly waiting for us to slip up in the title race

As for Argentina, [MENTION=131701]Mamoon[/MENTION] made a good point about the fact that Argentines are generally uncivilised and that Messi's time at Barcelona made him more European in his behaviour and mannerisms, but he was more aggressive than usual in the World Cup as evident by what went on in the Quarter Final game against the Dutch.

 

[Kroll]

I'm surprised that you like Arteta because I feel like you you're eagerly waiting for us to slip up in the title race

As for Argentina, [MENTION=131701]Mamoon[/MENTION] made a good point about the fact that Argentines are generally uncivilised and that Messi's time at Barcelona made him more European in his behaviour and mannerisms, but he was more aggressive than usual in the World Cup as evident by what went on in the Quarter Final game against the Dutch.

I've made my bed and have to run with it, still plenty of football left. Mamoon said Arsenal already won the title so the stakes were raised. You maybe right though.

Pep and his overthinking is letting me down in my predictions because City could have taken advantage of Arsenal's recent slips us but they haven't, instead shied away when presented with the opportunity.

 

[Firebat]

AC Milan are set to revive their interest in Arsenal and England Under-21s forward Folarin Balogun, 21, who is currently impressing as top scorer in Ligue 1 while on loan at Reims. (Mail)

 

[MenInG]

Premier League leaders Arsenal remain without injured pair Gabriel Jesus and Mohamed Elneny.

This game also comes too soon for Emile Smith Rowe, who is recovering from a thigh problem.

Reiss Nelson, who has not played since November because of a hamstring issue, has resumed training but is not ready to return.

Pontus Jansson, Thomas Strakosha and Frank Onyeka are all unavailable for Brentford.

 

[MenInG]

Arsenal v Brentford (15:00 GMT)

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is a big fan of a settled side and he is able to name a unchanged starting XI again today.

Influential midfielder Thomas Partey plays, despite concerns earlier this week over his fitness.

The Ghana international was substituted before the hour-mark in the 1-0 defeat at Everton last week after being an injury doubt for that match.

Forward Gabriel Martinelli and right-back Ben White also retain their places after both were hooked at Goodison Park.

Arsenal XI: Ramsdale, White, Saliba, Gabriel, Zinchenko, Partey, Odegaard, Xhaka, Saka, Martinelli, Nketiah.

 

[WengerOut]

Arsenal v Brentford (15:00 GMT)

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is a big fan of a settled side and he is able to name a unchanged starting XI again today.

Influential midfielder Thomas Partey plays, despite concerns earlier this week over his fitness.

The Ghana international was substituted before the hour-mark in the 1-0 defeat at Everton last week after being an injury doubt for that match.

Forward Gabriel Martinelli and right-back Ben White also retain their places after both were hooked at Goodison Park.

Arsenal XI: Ramsdale, White, Saliba, Gabriel, Zinchenko, Partey, Odegaard, Xhaka, Saka, Martinelli, Nketiah.

Brentford wont allow spaces behind. Martinelli would not be useful especially when he is out of form. Could have started Trossard.

 

[Amjid Javed]

Arsenal just as poor as last week, still 0-0 but Brentford should be a couple of goals up here already.

Arsenal to slow at getting ball forward.

 

[Amjid Javed]

Zinchenko and Eddie have been attrioucious so far. Simple passes can't even been made. Moving the ball so slow Brentford handling Arsenal with ease.

Get Tierney on for zinchenko and get Eddie off as well at HT.

 

[topspin]

Zinchenko and Eddie have been attrioucious so far. Simple passes can't even been made. Moving the ball so slow Brentford handling Arsenal with ease.

Get Tierney on for zinchenko and get Eddie off as well at HT.

Completely agree.

Brentford have decided to double up on Saka like Everton did. It looks like teams have now worked out that if they shut him down, Arsenal won't pose as much of a threat. It doesn't help when Martinelli isn't penetrating defences like he did earlier in the season.

2 x awful misplaced passes from Zinchenko and Nketiah was terrible at releasing the ball. The latter needs to work on his footballing IQ.

 

[topspin]

Brentford look more dangerous in the final third. I'm worried we're gonna lose this game. Arsenal don't have the same intensity and ruthlessness about them. They appear to be indecisive and more hesitant which is a sign of a team that's lacking in confidence.

 

[Amjid Javed]

Completely agree.

Brentford have decided to double up on Saka like Everton did. It looks like teams have now worked out that if they shut him down, Arsenal won't pose as much of a threat. It doesn't help when Martinelli isn't penetrating defences like he did earlier in the season.

2 x awful misplaced passes from Zinchenko and Nketiah was terrible at releasing the ball. The latter needs to work on his footballing IQ.

Zinchenko offers zero overlap to Martinelli and hes just being isolated. Everything is in front of Brentford and their defenders arent even breaking sweat.

Its slow ponderous sideways passing.

As far as Eddie goes, these are they games he goes missing when teams play low blocks, we are likely to get one chance in 2nd half and i would not back eddie to score it.

I can see a 2-0 Brentford win in the 2nd half here.

 

[SpiritOf1903]

They're in one of their seasonal slumps and it's unlikely they'll recover.


Might be struggling to get top 4 at this rate.

 

[Amjid Javed]

Brentford look more dangerous in the final third. I'm worried we're gonna lose this game. Arsenal don't have the same intensity and ruthlessness about them. They appear to be indecisive and more hesitant which is a sign of a team that's lacking in confidence.

Brentford will score in 2nd half from a set piece or some other chance. Our midfield are taking to many touches to move the ball, everything is slow and to touch, Brentford are playing one tough and going through us, just like everton.

No plan B from Arteta as per usual vs Low block

 

[Amjid Javed]

1-0 Trossard, finally a bit of quality

 

[topspin]

Trossard with his first goal for Arsenal. Great ball from Saka and lovely finish.

 

[Amjid Javed]

1-1 shocking defending

 

[topspin]

Awful defending

 

[Amjid Javed]

Why is Zinchenko still on the pitch, how many times is he going to give the ball away and slowing play down.

 

[SpiritOf1903]

Why is Zinchenko still on the pitch, how many times is he going to give the ball away and slowing play down.

Dropping Tomiyasu has been arsenals undoing.

Pathetic from corners agains.

Arsenal have once again crumbled in February but thought they were strong enough to not significantly improve.

 

[Amjid Javed]

2 points dropped, Arsenal ain't winning league and they ain't beating city on Wednesday.

Arteta keeping on Zinchenko is a shambles, a few others need to be looking to be dropped as well.

 

[topspin]

Why is Zinchenko still on the pitch, how many times is he going to give the ball away and slowing play down.

Worst player on the pitch today. Odegaard's levels have dropped as well. Martinelli has been toothless in recent games.

 

[topspin]

We're not winning the league, we're crumbling.

 

[topspin]

We badly need Jesus back in the side.

 

[Rana]

Choking as usual

 

[Amjid Javed]

The dumb tactics of zero width with 2 full backs offering nothing going forward vs low blocks was exposed again.

Newcastle, Everton and Brentford have now exposed Arsenal with this tactic.

City will do what they did in the FA Cup and they will double up on wings vs Arsenal, doing so will mean Arsenal will struggle to create.

Partey has Been in last 2 games as well, his passing very sloppy.

As inconsistent as City have been they will punish Arsenal's dropped points tomorrow and Wednesday.

 

[WengerOut]

Hate to say i told you, but Everton game was a psychological disaster. They have provided the blue print. There was no need for Saliba to enter into a wrestling competition with Toney. No apparent danger at that time.

 

[Technics 1210]

To be honest I expected Brentford to lose but to salvage a point away is as good as a win.

Arsenal may come to rue the 2 points lost.

 

[Amjid Javed]

Worst player on the pitch today. Odegaard's levels have dropped as well. Martinelli has been toothless in recent games.

Martinelli gets no support, he gets doubled up on and zinny and xhaka just stand their and offer no width. Everytime same thing silly slow passes side to side.

The goal from an overlap on otherside.

This is why Liverpool had trent and TAA to overcome low blocks, you stretch teams.

Zinchenko needs to be dropped. Also midfield 3 needs a refresh as well as xhaka and partey have been poor.

Defensively we have started to look bad on set pieces as well.

 

[Amjid Javed]

City will be Top of league on goal difference come end of Wednesday night.

 

[MenInG]

Gunners title hopes dented by resilient Bees

Arsenal have been formidable at home this season, winning eight and drawing one of their nine games at the Emirates before the visit of Brentford.

They are one of two sides, along with Newcastle, in the top flight unbeaten on their own turf - but that record was given a stern test against in-form Brentford, who had won four of their previous five league games.

Mikel Arteta's side had plenty of possession but found little joy in unlocking a disciplined Bees defence their patience was rewarded when Trossard struck midway through the second half.

The Belgium forward has looked a fine addition since joining from Brighton & Hove Albion for £27m last month and he was close to adding a second soon after with a shot from distance.

But a one-goal lead rarely looked like it would be enough against a Brentford side who had been sharp in attack, and so it proved when Toney equalised.

The draw for Arsenal follows successive defeats in the league and FA Cup to Everton and Manchester City respectively.

How they respond to this relative stumble - not least in Wednesday's home game against City will be key in determining whether they can win a first Premier League title since 2003-04.

 

[Amjid Javed]

Two most Annoying things from todays Game Eddie non-existent link up play, add to that the number of times he kept running into the space where Martinelli was, he must have run into him at least 3 times. I would actually start Trossard on Wing and Martinelli through the middle. Whilst Eddie has done well in a few games, consistently hes not good enough to lead the over a long period of time. The Sooner Jesus is back the better, in mean time we need to take Eddie on Wednesday.

Also seems like Zinchenko is undroppable, every time he got the ball he slowed game down and then kept playing balls in field, xhaka doing exactly the same.

Man city will expose Zinchenko lack of defensive ability as well, Ben white who was really good up until world up has also been poor. Tomi needs to come in as well.

Id even go as far as maybe playing Jorghino instead of xhaka who is another one whose performances have been mediocre.

Arteta has been here 3 years now and cant still learn to break down teams who put men behind the ball.

There was zero creativity and sending in crosses against 3 Brentford CBs was stupid.

 

[WengerOut]

Two most Annoying things from todays Game Eddie non-existent link up play, add to that the number of times he kept running into the space where Martinelli was, he must have run into him at least 3 times. I would actually start Trossard on Wing and Martinelli through the middle. Whilst Eddie has done well in a few games, consistently hes not good enough to lead the over a long period of time. The Sooner Jesus is back the better, in mean time we need to take Eddie on Wednesday.

Also seems like Zinchenko is undroppable, every time he got the ball he slowed game down and then kept playing balls in field, xhaka doing exactly the same.

Man city will expose Zinchenko lack of defensive ability as well, Ben white who was really good up until world up has also been poor. Tomi needs to come in as well.

Id even go as far as maybe playing Jorghino instead of xhaka who is another one whose performances have been mediocre.

Arteta has been here 3 years now and cant still learn to break down teams who put men behind the ball.

There was zero creativity and sending in crosses against 3 Brentford CBs was stupid.

I had also noted players running into each other atleast 3 times. CMs need some rest, but the backups are not upto standard. Odegard is still reeling from the Everton game. Viera's freekick at the last second sums up his career upto now as an arsenal player. Trossard was the only guy trying to make things happen. Arsenal need the dribbling quality of Jesus to open up low block teams.

Any negative result on Wednesday, it will be a fight for second with Man Utd after that.

 

[Amjid Javed]

I had also noted players running into each other atleast 3 times. CMs need some rest, but the backups are not upto standard. Odegard is still reeling from the Everton game. Viera's freekick at the last second sums up his career upto now as an arsenal player. Trossard was the only guy trying to make things happen. Arsenal need the dribbling quality of Jesus to open up low block teams.

Any negative result on Wednesday, it will be a fight for second with Man Utd after that.

100% Spot some out of form players need dropping Zinny and White and Tierney and Tomi are good replacements.

But you right about the midfield Can we rest / dropped oddegard? No because Vieria is a waste of 30M or what ever the club wasted on this weakling player, when he came in it was a waste of time.

Also Arsenal are missing ESR big time, hes the one player that can pick ball up in central postions and drive, sadly he cant stay fit and if that continues i can see him being sold in summer (Huge fan of his but wont be shocked if he is gone)

Also against low blocks Xhaka in advanced position is a waste of time, hes passing is always slow and side ways.

Problem is dont think Arteta has balls to drop zinny and xhaka for weds game.

Man city will play like they did in cup game, they will use AKE on oneside to stop saka and and they will put men behind the ball, knowing full well they have mahrez, Haaland etc.. who can do damage on counter attack.

I can see City schooling Arsenal on wednesday and winning 2-0

Peps wont play an open game, he will be cagey knowing he can prey on Arsenal vulnerability. Weds is must win for Arsenal now.

You will see Mamoon hiding behind a rock for a while now, unless Villa some how beat City tomorrow.

 

[Rana]

That was a massive two points dropped

We have no choice now but to beat City at home

 

[topspin]

Two most Annoying things from todays Game Eddie non-existent link up play, add to that the number of times he kept running into the space where Martinelli was, he must have run into him at least 3 times. I would actually start Trossard on Wing and Martinelli through the middle. Whilst Eddie has done well in a few games, consistently hes not good enough to lead the over a long period of time. The Sooner Jesus is back the better, in mean time we need to take Eddie on Wednesday.

Also seems like Zinchenko is undroppable, every time he got the ball he slowed game down and then kept playing balls in field, xhaka doing exactly the same.

Man city will expose Zinchenko lack of defensive ability as well, Ben white who was really good up until world up has also been poor. Tomi needs to come in as well.

Id even go as far as maybe playing Jorghino instead of xhaka who is another one whose performances have been mediocre.

Arteta has been here 3 years now and cant still learn to break down teams who put men behind the ball.

There was zero creativity and sending in crosses against 3 Brentford CBs was stupid.

Totally agree with this. Honestly this game was so painful to watch. Even after 5 mins I could tell this wasn't the same Arsenal who had won 16 out of their first 19 games.

Vieria's free kick made me want to break my screen. I don't want to see him playing in the PL again. Awful signing. I'm sure he'll be sold in the summer.

 

[topspin]

100% Spot some out of form players need dropping Zinny and White and Tierney and Tomi are good replacements.

But you right about the midfield Can we rest / dropped oddegard? No because Vieria is a waste of 30M or what ever the club wasted on this weakling player, when he came in it was a waste of time.

Also Arsenal are missing ESR big time, hes the one player that can pick ball up in central postions and drive, sadly he cant stay fit and if that continues i can see him being sold in summer (Huge fan of his but wont be shocked if he is gone)

Also against low blocks Xhaka in advanced position is a waste of time, hes passing is always slow and side ways.

Problem is dont think Arteta has balls to drop zinny and xhaka for weds game.

Man city will play like they did in cup game, they will use AKE on oneside to stop saka and and they will put men behind the ball, knowing full well they have mahrez, Haaland etc.. who can do damage on counter attack.

I can see City schooling Arsenal on wednesday and winning 2-0

Peps wont play an open game, he will be cagey knowing he can prey on Arsenal vulnerability. Weds is must win for Arsenal now.

You will see Mamoon hiding behind a rock for a while now, unless Villa some how beat City tomorrow.

Agreed ESR and Jesus are so badly needed in this team. Jesus may have missed a few chances just prior to the WC but his ability to unlock defences via dribbling, hold up play and make space for other players was superb.

Nketiah is a good goal scorer but today's match exposed his footballing IQ and inability to create the chemistry that Jesus can do. Jesus is a better all round player.

Nketiah is good for the bench.

I agree with your suggestion in re to starting Martinelli as a CF (instead of Nketiah) and having Trossard take his spot as a LWF.

 

[Saj]

A few players looking out of sorts at the moment.

The question now is does Arsenal have the strength in depth to drop those players and bring in players who have been waiting for their opportunity.

 

[sweep_shot]

I want Arsenal to win this time. Don't want to see City winning it again.

 

[Firebat]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Exc: VAR Lee Mason forgot to draw offside lines on Ivan Toney's equaliser in a mistake that could have a huge impact on Arsenal's title hopes.<br><br>Christian Norgaard was offside. Had the lines been drawn, the goal would have been disallowed.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AFC?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AFC</a><a href="https://t.co/V2woDadQpF">https://t.co/V2woDadQpF</a></p>— James Sharpe (@TheSharpeEnd) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheSharpeEnd/status/1624537708587634690?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 11, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

They were so fixated on the earlier offside that they didn't realise Norgaard was offside, utter utter farce. First Old Trafford, where they actually admitted they wrongly ruled out Martinelli's goal, and now this. And I've just read that it's the exact same VAR official Mason that officiated both

 

[Firebat]

Arsenal 1-1 Brentford: Mikel Arteta accuses officials of 'changing the rules' on 'awful' day for VAR

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has accused officials of "changing the rules" after claiming Brentford's equaliser in the 1-1 draw at Emirates Stadium should have been ruled out for offside.

The Gunners had taken the lead in the second half when Leandro Trossard scored his first goal for the club.

But Ivan Toney levelled when he nodded in Christian Norgaard's cross from close range.

"I just looked back and it is offside, yes," said Arteta.

Toney's celebrations were delayed for a lengthy check by the video assistant referee (VAR).

Norgaard appeared to be offside in the build-up to the 74th-minute goal, while there was a suggestion Ethan Pinnock blocked Gabriel Magalhaes while in an offside position prior to that.

However, the decision to award the equaliser stood, leaving Arteta frustrated.

"The action when you get blocked when you are offside - you cannot block if you are offside," the Arsenal boss added.

"You have to apply certain principles in defending and you do that by sticking to the rules. Suddenly you change the rules and then you have to change your principles.

"So tell us before, so then you don't hide the line that high, because you're always going to have an advantage if you get blocked."

On the controversial strike, Brentford boss Thomas Frank said: "I agree that when they kicked the ball, Ethan (Pinnock) is in an offside position.

"Then, as far as I know the football laws, the next question is did he influence the cross? They decided it was not enough and I agree."

The point meant Arsenal are now six points clear of Manchester City, who play Aston Villa on Sunday and then visit the Gunners on Wednesday.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/64612850

 

[IAJ]

If City win the match against Arsenal, then it's over for The Gunners this time I am afraid because there will be alot of preassure in remaining games and Guardiola have more experince than Arteta. Let's see.

 

[MenInG]

The PGMOL have admitted that it was 'human error' which lead to VAR not fully investigating an offside call for Brentford's equaliser against Arsenal.

 

[IMMY69]

That was a ridiculous VAR decision.
Yes a draw was the probably the right result based on performances but if they made the right decision then we would be talking about a hard faught victory and a champion team instead of talking about this and that and imploding due to pressure.

Same VAR ref who disallowed Martineli's goal in Old Trafford.

 

[Saj]

Lead down to 3 points now.

Huge game coming up this week between the top 2.

Arsenal feeling the heat now?

 

[Firebat]

That was a ridiculous VAR decision.
Yes a draw was the probably the right result based on performances but if they made the right decision then we would be talking about a hard faught victory and a champion team instead of talking about this and that and imploding due to pressure.

Same VAR ref who disallowed Martineli's goal in Old Trafford.

There aren't many other professions where one can make multiple high profile, costly errors in a massively high-stakes environment and be allowed to continue.

Managers get sacked when they don't bring in results, players get sold. Referees should be no different. Instead they just sit out one week and are back in the next.

 

[topspin]

There aren't many other professions where one can make multiple high profile, costly errors in a massively high-stakes environment and be allowed to continue.

Managers get sacked when they don't bring in results, players get sold. Referees should be no different. Instead they just sit out one week and are back in the next.

Sadly, English referees are the worst in Europe.

Not many PL fans are aware of this because these pundits and analysts aren't really allowed to criticise referees to this extent.

 

[Firebat]

On Christmas Day, Arsenal were 5 points clear of City with the same games played. Now, we are 3 points clear with a game in hand. We all would have taken that! The timeline of results has skewed everyone's perspectives.

Panic and negativity sets in so quick in Arsenal fans, scars from previous seasons. We will never reach the top again with this mentality, and we'd be battling Liverpool and Chelsea in mid-table if the players shared it.

We've been the best team in the league for 21 games with a dip in form and points stolen by referees. Keep positive, it's still in our hands and we can still beat City on Wednesday, they're vulnerable defensively and not the City of old. Remember how we battered them last season at home with a worse side and mentality, if we can recreate that performance without the red card it's ours.

 

[topspin]

I feel like the game against City is a must win.

If we lose, City will go top level on points. If we draw, it will be 4 consecutive games without a win. Failing to beat City in either of these two games would be a dent on the team psychologically.

I don't have a good feeling after seeing how City played against Villa. They'll go to the Emirates with a lot of confidence.

Guardiola has stopped these stupid experiments and has now brought back KDB and Gundorgan who are their two best midfielders in their side.

Arteta needs to think about the following changes:

Tierney -> Zinchenko
Tomiyasu -> White

I would also like to see Martinelli play the number 9 role instead of Nketiah and see Trossard play as our left wing forward.

I can't see us winning with the same XI.

 

[Firebat]

I can't see us winning with the same XI.

Why? It's the same XI that has taken us to the top of the league for 21 games, and City will not be parking the bus like Everton or Brentford, it will be a open, high energy game.

We will desperately need the midfield control and technical security that Zinchenko and White offer, the only change I would consider is Trossard for Martinelli. The XI is good enough to win this, as they have against all other top 6, just need to stay confident and execute on the day.

 

[topspin]

Why? It's the same XI that has taken us to the top of the league for 21 games, and City will not be parking the bus like Everton or Brentford, it will be a open, high energy game.

We will desperately need the midfield control and technical security that Zinchenko and White offer, the only change I would consider is Trossard for Martinelli. The XI is good enough to win this, as they have against all other top 6, just need to stay confident and execute on the day.

The current first XI just isn't clicking together. The chemistry isn't there and they're struggling to unlock defences.

I appreciate Everton and Brentford played low blocks but these games exposed how dependent we are on Saka. In the last two games, the opposition have doubled up on him which has neutralised his threat going forward. The likes of Martinelli, Odegaard and Nketiah in recent times can't unsettle the defence like he does.

Saka is by far our best player and for me he's the second best right wing forward after Messi. I'm worried teams have worked us out now because we look like a one man team, without Jesus.

 

[Firebat]

The current first XI just isn't clicking together. The chemistry isn't there and they're struggling to unlock defences.

I appreciate Everton and Brentford played low blocks but these games exposed how dependent we are on Saka. In the last two games, the opposition have doubled up on him which has neutralised his threat going forward. The likes of Martinelli, Odegaard and Nketiah in recent times can't unsettle the defence like he does.

Saka is by far our best player and for me he's the second best right wing forward after Messi. I'm worried teams have worked us out now because we look like a one man team, without Jesus.

While Saka is obviously our best player, we are by no means a 1-man team. The goal contributions are very evenly spread:

Saka - 15
Odegaard - 13
Jesus - 10
Martinelli - 9
Xhaka - 8
Nketiah - 4

As a complete attacking unit we have been very fluid and proficient all season, but it's true that other attackers have gone off the boil in recent games. That's why I would consider Trossard for Martinelli.

I'm hoping that the intensity and occasion of the game will spark our attacking flame back into life. We can get back to what we do best, moving the ball with speed and confidence through tight spaces, instead of sitting in the opposition half staring at 11 men in the penalty box. This is why I'd keep Zinchenko and White, they are crucial to that system.