Arsenal FC | 2022/23 Season

[Amjid Javed]

Decision overturned. very lucky

 

[James]

Arsenal so lucky today.

Leeds played very well. Lots of pride to take away.

 

[Rana]

Breath easy

Another vital 3 points!

 

[Firebat]

1-0. Clean sheet away from home. 3 points.

 

[James]

We will be ridiculously lucky to leave here with 3 points. We are getting battered.

Can’t believe Leeds lost that! Haha

 

[Rana]

United drop 2 points at home and City could also lose if Liverpool turn up

Massive result for Arsenal as 1/4th of the season is complete

 

[IAJ]

What an ugly win for Arsenal. Leeds completely outplayed Arsenal. So this was very frustrating.

But Arsenal still getting away with all the points, sign of a top team also, still winning on a bad day at office.

 

[Amjid Javed]

Arsenal so lucky today.

Leeds played very well. Lots of pride to take away.

Leeds deserved the win today.

Arsenal very lucky. 2nd half was shocking.

Gabriel lucky that was a red. even after the initial foul you cant kick out like that.

i told you james this wouldnt be easy for Arsenal.

 

[IAJ]

1-0. Clean sheet away from home. 3 points.

Lol, in the end only the points matter, so congrats.

 

[James]

What an ugly win for Arsenal. Leeds completely outplayed Arsenal. So this was very frustrating.

But Arsenal still getting away with all the points, sign of a top team also, still winning on a bad day at office.

Leeds deserved the win today.

Arsenal very lucky. 2nd half was shocking.

Gabriel lucky that was a red. even after the initial foul you cant kick out like that.

i told you james this wouldnt be easy for Arsenal.

You did!

Really good display from Leeds, deserved something from the game.

Heartening for Leeds fans to see this performance.

Arsenal are learning how to win ugly.

 

[Firebat]

Leeds deserved the win today.

Arsenal very lucky. 2nd half was shocking.

Gabriel lucky that was a red. even after the initial foul you cant kick out like that.

i told you james this wouldnt be easy for Arsenal.

Regardless it would not have been a pen.

 

[topspin]

What a game!

We got lucky to win that but great mental strength and resolve by Arsenal.

Bamford will rue his penalty miss.

Under previous managers during the 2010s, we would have folded and gone on to lose it by 4-1.

Gabriel needs to be benched. He's a liability who's going to cost us points. Arteta must act now.

No we didn't get lucky by the referee's decision to overturn the second penalty. Bamford fouled Gabriel, who didn't warrant a red.

One of the best games of the season for sure. Well played Leed. We'll take the 3 points though.

 

[topspin]

Arsenal so lucky today.

Leeds played very well. Lots of pride to take away.

Play very well today. I feel for you guys, I really do.

I could tell Bamford was going to miss. He didn't look comfortable and the pressure of being on 99, as we often say in cricket, got the better off him.

 

[Rana]

Such a shame this game wasn’t televised

Missed it!

 

[topspin]

Decision overturned. very lucky

Bamford fouled Gabriel. It was never a penalty unless the rules change whenever Arteta is head coach?

 

[Amjid Javed]

Regardless it would not have been a pen.

im not saying its a pen. should have still been red. They guys a walking liability and will cost us points at somepoint.

 

[Amjid Javed]

Bamford fouled Gabriel. It was never a penalty unless the rules change whenever Arteta is head coach?

Do you read what i wrote. i said even after bamfords foul you cant kick out like that.

No it was a pen. Yes it should have a been a red card.

 

[MenInG]

Premier League leaders Arsenal held on to win at Leeds in a dramatic finish after the match had been delayed by about 40 minutes because of a power outage.

There was drama in stoppage time when referee Chris Kavanagh sent off Arsenal's Gabriel for kicking out at Leeds striker Patrick Bamford and awarded the hosts a penalty, but both decisions were overturned after Kavanagh reviewed the incident on the pitchside monitor.

Earlier, he halted the match after 23 seconds of play because of a power cut at Elland Road, which meant Kavanagh lost communication with the video assistant referee officials, while goalline technology was down too.

Once they got going again, the impressive Bukayo Saka scored the winning goal in the first half by punishing Rodrigo's loose pass, exchanging passes with Martin Odegaard before smashing in high at the near post.

Bamford was sent on at the start of the second half and the Englishman almost made an immediate impact but his close-range strike was ruled out for a push on Gabriel.

Before the stoppage-time controversy, Leeds were awarded a penalty when William Saliba was adjudged to have handled the ball, but Bamford dragged his effort wide.

Leeds piled on the pressure and Luis Sinisterra's goal-bound shot was blocked by Gabriel, while Brenden Aaronson's arrowed strike from long range was pushed away by Aaron Ramsdale.

Mikel Arteta's side are now four points clear after making a highly impressive start to the campaign which has seen them collect nine victories from 10 Premier League games.

 

[Amjid Javed]

Lol, in the end only the points matter, so congrats.

Such a shame this game wasn’t televised

Missed it!

Was loads of sites streaming it, always is online.

 

[topspin]

Such a shame this game wasn’t televised

Missed it!

This is why you need IPTV.

 

[Amjid Javed]

Arsenal so lucky today.

Leeds played very well. Lots of pride to take away.

Our midfield was non-non-existent in 2nd half? bottled tackles. Captain decided he was going to hide in 2nd half. Xhaka moving like he had his legs tied together.

This is why we need at least 1 more midfielder in january to freshen things up when players go AWOL. very lucky 2nd half.

 

[Amjid Javed]

One person who was brilliant all game was Ramsdale. Made some great saves and was good from corners and ball distribution.

 

[Amjid Javed]

Video ref was Paul tierney - 1st time ever hes probably made a right decision vs Arsenal when he asked Ref to review 2nd incident for pen.

 

[topspin]

One person who was brilliant all game was Ramsdale. Made some great saves and was good from corners and ball distribution.

Agreed. Should be England’s number 1.

BTW who was MOTM?

 

[Firebat]

This is Arsenal's best ever start to a PL season. The first time we have won 9 out of the first 10 games since 1903.

 

[Firebat]

Such a shame this game wasn’t televised

Missed it!

Count yourself lucky. It was like watching a Pakistan run chase

 

[Amjid Javed]

Agreed. Should be England’s number 1.

BTW who was MOTM?

Im not sure.

But pickford was awful yesterday

Ramsdale should be number 1.

 

[Amjid Javed]

This is Arsenal's best ever start to a PL season. The first time we have won 9 out of the first 10 games since 1903.

Lets hope run gets up top 4. I still think even with this start that we have city will blow everyone away still.

 

[Rana]

4 points clear of city

 

[Amjid Javed]

4 points clear of city

no invincibles for city )

 

[Amjid Javed]

So weds should have been Arsenal vs Man city.

I guess we will have to wait for that clash now.

 

[Saj]

4 points clear at the top.

Can they keep it going?

 

[Firebat]

All in all a good couple of games that we've survived.

Flew out to Norway on Wednesday, played on Thursday, flew back Friday, one training session before travelling up to Leeds Saturday to play a high energy game in a raucous and hostile atmosphere at Sunday lunchtime. Our 2 worst games this season quality-wise yet we've left with 6 points from them and now 4 points clear at the top.

The mentality to grind out results when you're under the pump seems to be improving.

 

[Amjid Javed]

4 points clear at the top.

Can they keep it going?

1 game at a time - southampton Away next.

The squad defo needs strengthening in midfield and another striker or RW in january.

 

[Amjid Javed]

The Gabriel incident today. Bamford clearly pushes Gabriel so its a foul and No penalty. However Gabriel is just plain Dumb.

1) Just remember in every single PL game there are cameras and VAR so any player lashing out in the box, on corners or even after a coming together will get picked up.Contact was minimal but your not going to get away with lashing out.

2) Look at Rob holdings reaction where hes continually pushing away Gabriel away who is still being aggresive.

3) Then have a look at Granit xhaka (who massive respect to him) after the whole incident is wagging his finger at Gabriel and clearly tells him how lucky he is.

This guy has in 6 games this season been responsible for various different mess ups and will continue to do so while being picked.

 

[Firebat]

4 points clear at the top.

Can they keep it going?

4 PL games left before the WC:

Southampton (A)
Forest (H)
Chelsea (A)
Wolves (A)

If we can take at least 10 points (though 12 should be the aim as we have a good record as of late at Stamford Bridge), it would be a huge boost going into the WC.

After that, it's anyone's guess. Ramsdale, White, Tomiyasu, Partey, Xhaka, Saka, Jesus (probably Saliba and Martinelli too) all heading to Qatar. Who knows what shape the squad will be in after that. That's why it's important to secure every point available before then while confidence is high and players are fit.

 

[SpiritOf1903]

Europa League proving their undoing. Will only get harder

 

[James]

Southampton away and Forest at home are two easy wins for Arsenal. awful sides

 

[Firebat]

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta says something special is happening with his team after the won their ninth game in ten Premier League matches with a 1-0 win over Leeds.

 

[Amjid Javed]

4 PL games left before the WC:

Southampton (A)
Forest (H)
Chelsea (A)
Wolves (A)

If we can take at least 10 points (though 12 should be the aim as we have a good record as of late at Stamford Bridge), it would be a huge boost going into the WC.

After that, it's anyone's guess. Ramsdale, White, Tomiyasu, Partey, Xhaka, Saka, Jesus (probably Saliba and Martinelli too) all heading to Qatar. Who knows what shape the squad will be in after that. That's why it's important to secure every point available before then while confidence is high and players are fit.

10 out of 12 points would be good especially as some of the top 6 sides play each otjer in that time period. The club needs to strengthen in january. Cant have same repeated mistakes in January of last season.

 

[Mamoon]

Some people have a hard time coping with Arsenal stunning season so far and they keep waiting for the team to falter so that they can say “told you so”.

Arsenal may or may not falter, but none of them would have put their money on Arsenal having a 4 point lead at the top after 10 games, so they have already been proved wrong and perhaps it is time for their shut their mouths.

Yes Arsenal played poorly at Leeds, but no team in PL history has played great 38 matches. Even the invincibles Arsenal played some average football in between, City over the last few seasons have had some ordinary games too.

However, to win the league, you need to find a way to win and draw even after playing poorly. This is what Arsenal have been able to do so far this season.

Wins such as yesterday will make a huge difference at the end of the season.

There is absolutely no reason why Arteta should not tell the players to focus on staying at the summit. Thinking that they have no chance and they will falter at some point is a defeatist mentality.

Who knows what can happen if Arsenal can beat City at the Emirates.

 

[Firebat]

Gabriel was immense yesterday. Our best defender by a country mile, winning his duels, cleaning up after Saliba and making a few goal-saving blocks and interceptions in the box. His performance actually got the highest rating of the 22 players on the pitch on SofaScore.

And despite Bamford's best efforts to cheat his way into a redemption penalty and getting him sent off, VAR with all the camera angles in the world told the referee to overturn the red card.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Gabriel's game by numbers vs. Leeds:<br><br>100% aerial duels won<br>90% pass accuracy <br>80 touches <br>9 duels contested <br>8 duels won <br>4 clearances <br>4 blocks<br>3 tackles <br>3 interceptions <br>1 shot <br><br>And zero red cards. �� <a href="https://t.co/CmgVBqAglj">pic.twitter.com/CmgVBqAglj</a></p>— Squawka (@Squawka) <a href="https://twitter.com/Squawka/status/1581673026135142402?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 16, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Credit where it's due.

 

[Amjid Javed]

Gabriel was immense yesterday. Our best defender by a country mile, winning his duels, cleaning up after Saliba and making a few goal-saving blocks and interceptions in the box. His performance actually got the highest rating of the 22 players on the pitch on SofaScore.

And despite Bamford's best efforts to cheat his way into a redemption penalty and getting him sent off, VAR with all the camera angles in the world told the referee to overturn the red card.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Gabriel's game by numbers vs. Leeds:<br><br>100% aerial duels won<br>90% pass accuracy <br>80 touches <br>9 duels contested <br>8 duels won <br>4 clearances <br>4 blocks<br>3 tackles <br>3 interceptions <br>1 shot <br><br>And zero red cards. �� <a href="https://t.co/CmgVBqAglj">pic.twitter.com/CmgVBqAglj</a></p>— Squawka (@Squawka) <a href="https://twitter.com/Squawka/status/1581673026135142402?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 16, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Credit where it's due.

Do you have his stats for the season?

Do those stats include?

1 x Mistake vs Fulham
2 x mistake vs Man utd
1 x mistake vs liverpool
1 x lucky handball vs liverpool
1 x mistake vs Spurs

Thats just a small list of his shoddy performances. Stats wont indicate that.

Also since when has Sofascore been some sort of yard stick of performance. There are 100s of these type of sites these days. Most of players got higher rating on that site then leeds players. Yet leeds pretty much dominated the game, especially in midfield where they were running through it and bypassing it with ease.

 

[Amjid Javed]

Some people have a hard time coping with Arsenal stunning season so far and they keep waiting for the team to falter so that they can say “told you so”.

Arsenal may or may not falter, but none of them would have put their money on Arsenal having a 4 point lead at the top after 10 games, so they have already been proved wrong and perhaps it is time for their shut their mouths.

Yes Arsenal played poorly at Leeds, but no team in PL history has played great 38 matches. Even the invincibles Arsenal played some average football in between, City over the last few seasons have had some ordinary games too.

However, to win the league, you need to find a way to win and draw even after playing poorly. This is what Arsenal have been able to do so far this season.

Wins such as yesterday will make a huge difference at the end of the season.

There is absolutely no reason why Arteta should not tell the players to focus on staying at the summit. Thinking that they have no chance and they will falter at some point is a defeatist mentality.

Who knows what can happen if Arsenal can beat City at the Emirates.

You talk about about positive mindset! and staying at the summit.

yeah lets see how much ambition the manager, Edu and in particular the kronkes have if Arsenal are in the top 2 come january

We hear all these interviews from Josh kronke with buzz words and loads of hype how he wants Arsenal win to win trophies and compete.

Same as Edu that Arsenal want to win titles and trophies. (link for Edu's pre-season interview below)

https://youtu.be/Mzbcv4KEEgI

facts are that in whole time Kronkes have been here and in any season where Arsenal have been in a strong position in january the club has lacked ambition to strengthen squad in january to aid that final push. So lets see if kronkes back the manager.

last season top 4 was there for the taking and instead the club failed to strengthen in january and bottled top 4. The clubs wage bill was supposedly more important. Add to that the supposed clubs Target was get back into europe which you can do finishing 7th which shows no ambition.

So lets see if Kronkes / Edu are going to back the manager and try and win a title or trophies or whether it was just usual PR bullcrap that this club likes to spin.

Yeah if the club aims for title and falls short they will make top 4. Its all down to mindset.

only small clubs like spurs celebrate finishing 2nd as they know thats the best they will get. No cares that mourinho got a 2nd place with man utd a few seasons ago either. Clubs only remember titles and cups.

For years people slagged Wenger off for seeing 4th place as a trophy, thats how little ambition Arsenal have had.

Thats why it makes me laugh now some fans getting over excited because we might make top 4 after 6 years.

If its seen as a stepping stone to winning a PL or a CL fair enough. if its not then it aint worth getting over excited about.

Also fans aint waiting for team to fail, fans are waiting to see if this so called "project" is actually really about winning titles and cups or is it just bout getting top 4 every season again so kronkes can take money out of club and invest elsewhere.

Arteta for now is doing a job with what hes been given, lets see if rest of club Edu (getting jan transfers done) and kronkes (actually think oh we can win title, lets take a risk or we just need top 4 money so we dont have to spend ourselves).

 

[Firebat]

Do you have his stats for the season?

Do those stats include?

1 x Mistake vs Fulham
2 x mistake vs Man utd
1 x mistake vs liverpool
1 x lucky handball vs liverpool
1 x mistake vs Spurs

Thats just a small list of his shoddy performances. Stats wont indicate that.

Also since when has Sofascore been some sort of yard stick of performance. There are 100s of these type of sites these days. Most of players got higher rating on that site then leeds players. Yet leeds pretty much dominated the game, especially in midfield where they were running through it and bypassing it with ease.

In what way is that relevant to my post?

Lol. I trust a site that rates players on the factual events of the match rather than a guy who blindly runs his agenda any time he sees Gabriel's name. The defenders of the team that won 1-0 were higher rated than the attacking force of the losing side. And the Leeds midfield were higher rated than Arsenal's, except for the one that created the winning goal and marshalled the game for the majority of the time he was on the pitch. None of this is rocket science.

The mental gymnastics to come up with those numbers is painful. I've already explained in this thread why it was not a handball vs Liverpool, we can scratch that one off the list.

2x mistake vs Man Utd? You've got them down as Gabriel mistakes, really? Have you not realised by now it is his role and directive to be aggressive and press up against their front line? They were failures of the entire back line, not just Gabriel. Why did Saliba and White decide to play an offside trap on the halfway line? Why did Zinchenko run at the ball leaving the goalscorer that he was marking free? If one criticises Gabriel, one must criticise the rest of them too.

The Liverpool mistake there is a case for but the ball was physically just too far for him to reach, perhaps a quicker CB would have been able to get there.

The only actual egregious mistakes were against Fulham and Spurs, both of which he atoned for in-game with goal contributions to save the points.

Why not the same pile-on for Saliba? The player who scored an own goal (and nearly another against LFC)? The one equally at fault (if not more) for the LFC goals than Gabriel was? The one who yesterday gave away a penalty and a terrible giveaway that Ramsdale's brilliance bailed him out of?

Instead you wrote an essay criticising Gabriel's match-winning performance because of an offence he was not even guilty of. At least be consistent.

I think both CB's are fantastic defenders, Saliba clearly a much higher ceiling, but both need to cut out errors in their game going forward. Van Dijk was playing at Celtic at Gabriel's age, meanwhile our 21 and 24 year old CBs are starting every game at the high-pressure business end of the PL. Some patience is needed, not blind agendas.

 

[Amjid Javed]

In what way is that relevant to my post?

Lol. I trust a site that rates players on the factual events of the match rather than a guy who blindly runs his agenda any time he sees Gabriel's name. The defenders of the team that won 1-0 were higher rated than the attacking force of the losing side. And the Leeds midfield were higher rated than Arsenal's, except for the one that created the winning goal and marshalled the game for the majority of the time he was on the pitch. None of this is rocket science.

The mental gymnastics to come up with those numbers is painful. I've already explained in this thread why it was not a handball vs Liverpool, we can scratch that one off the list.

2x mistake vs Man Utd? You've got them down as Gabriel mistakes, really? Have you not realised by now it is his role and directive to be aggressive and press up against their front line? They were failures of the entire back line, not just Gabriel. Why did Saliba and White decide to play an offside trap on the halfway line? Why did Zinchenko run at the ball leaving the goalscorer that he was marking free? If one criticises Gabriel, one must criticise the rest of them too.

The Liverpool mistake there is a case for but the ball was physically just too far for him to reach, perhaps a quicker CB would have been able to get there.

The only actual egregious mistakes were against Fulham and Spurs, both of which he atoned for in-game with goal contributions to save the points.

Why not the same pile-on for Saliba? The player who scored an own goal (and nearly another against LFC)? The one equally at fault (if not more) for the LFC goals than Gabriel was? The one who yesterday gave away a penalty and a terrible giveaway that Ramsdale's brilliance bailed him out of?

Instead you wrote an essay criticising Gabriel's match-winning performance because of an offence he was not even guilty of. At least be consistent.

I think both CB's are fantastic defenders, Saliba clearly a much higher ceiling, but both need to cut out errors in their game going forward. Van Dijk was playing at Celtic at Gabriel's age, meanwhile our 21 and 24 year old CBs are starting every game at the high-pressure business end of the PL. Some patience is needed, not blind agendas.

Runs an agenda? Hes been poor vast majority of the season. Go watch varying different Arsenal podcasts or content creators online and most people have said Gabriel needs to cut out his stupid mistakes. even fans in this thread Mamoon and few others have said hes a liability, so i aint only one calling him out.

Its one thing to be so called aggressive its another to continually get to close to strikers and get spun. Go look at 2 off his previous red cards vs Man city and southampton and hes to eager to win the ball gets spun and gets a stupid 2nd booking. He does exactly the same thing against united gets in to close and got spun and it opens up space in behind him. Good defenders learn you cant always win the ball like that. Even the 1st goal vs united where lakonga dissappeared Gabriel feels need to engage and come across to far which then pulled zinchenko across so thats why space was left. We are 10 games into season and Gabriels having lapses of concentration every other game. Thats not a sign of a top defender. Also his petulance aint doing anyone any favours.

Saliba is still a kid and its his 1st season in PL, huge difference. His own goal vs leicester was ramsdales fault as when crosd came in he had to head the ball as someone was behind him and ramsdale was in no mans land and should have been on his line. Yeah he nearly scored another vs liverpool trying to block a cross. Saliba had his worst game yesterday game away a stupid pen and was lucky not to get a yellow for pulling bamforda shirt. But lets be real Gabriel is the senior defender and is always losing his head.

The fact the xhaka went over to Gabriel and told him to sort his **** out while pointing his finger at him says it all. Its not 1st time gabriel has thrown his toys out of pram and reacted in a game. Last season vs city he was booked for scuffing up penalty spot, then got sent off later.

Also in regards to that site its a load of rubbish. You say are highest rated midfielder was because he got an assist, then got bullied all 2nd half and got taken off. How many Arsenal captains get hauled off 3 games in a row because manager isnt happy with their 2nd half performance.

 

[Mamoon]

You talk about about positive mindset! and staying at the summit.

yeah lets see how much ambition the manager, Edu and in particular the kronkes have if Arsenal are in the top 2 come january

We hear all these interviews from Josh kronke with buzz words and loads of hype how he wants Arsenal win to win trophies and compete.

Same as Edu that Arsenal want to win titles and trophies. (link for Edu's pre-season interview below)

https://youtu.be/Mzbcv4KEEgI

facts are that in whole time Kronkes have been here and in any season where Arsenal have been in a strong position in january the club has lacked ambition to strengthen squad in january to aid that final push. So lets see if kronkes back the manager.

last season top 4 was there for the taking and instead the club failed to strengthen in january and bottled top 4. The clubs wage bill was supposedly more important. Add to that the supposed clubs Target was get back into europe which you can do finishing 7th which shows no ambition.

So lets see if Kronkes / Edu are going to back the manager and try and win a title or trophies or whether it was just usual PR bullcrap that this club likes to spin.

Yeah if the club aims for title and falls short they will make top 4. Its all down to mindset.

only small clubs like spurs celebrate finishing 2nd as they know thats the best they will get. No cares that mourinho got a 2nd place with man utd a few seasons ago either. Clubs only remember titles and cups.

For years people slagged Wenger off for seeing 4th place as a trophy, thats how little ambition Arsenal have had.

Thats why it makes me laugh now some fans getting over excited because we might make top 4 after 6 years.

If its seen as a stepping stone to winning a PL or a CL fair enough. if its not then it aint worth getting over excited about.

Also fans aint waiting for team to fail, fans are waiting to see if this so called "project" is actually really about winning titles and cups or is it just bout getting top 4 every season again so kronkes can take money out of club and invest elsewhere.

Arteta for now is doing a job with what hes been given, lets see if rest of club Edu (getting jan transfers done) and kronkes (actually think oh we can win title, lets take a risk or we just need top 4 money so we dont have to spend ourselves).

Finishing 2nd is an achievement for a club that hasn’t been in the UCL since 2017. It is a power statement.

United finished 2nd two years ago too, but they were never 1st for a significant period if at all, and trailed City by a fair margin.

There is a difference between being a distant second and spending numerous weeks at the top. This is Arsenal’s lengthiest run as league leaders since 2015-16 when Wenger bottled the title to Leicester.

You keep bringing referencing Wenger but it is a different situation. Wenger was content with the top four and never showed any desperation to win the league during the Emirates era. The one thing he badly wanted was European glory but he didn’t have the team or the tactics for it.

Arteta is a young manager with a lot of ambition and a big ego. He is desperate to prove himself and make Arsenal a powerhouse.

There is absolutely no way he is going to settle for a top four position and not have enough financial backing to challenge for the PL and UCL.

Arteta is the hottest young manager in the world right now - his stock is rising each week and if the Arsenal board cannot give him what he wants, there will be plenty of big clubs like City, Barcelona, PSG etc. who would be eyeing him.

Everyone at Arsenal is one the same page right now. They are working together and you can see the ambition at the club. It is a very exciting time to be an Arsenal fan.

 

[Amjid Javed]

Finishing 2nd is an achievement for a club that hasn’t been in the UCL since 2017. It is a power statement.

United finished 2nd two years ago too, but they were never 1st for a significant period if at all, and trailed City by a fair margin.

There is a difference between being a distant second and spending numerous weeks at the top. This is Arsenal’s lengthiest run as league leaders since 2015-16 when Wenger bottled the title to Leicester.

You keep bringing referencing Wenger but it is a different situation. Wenger was content with the top four and never showed any desperation to win the league during the Emirates era. The one thing he badly wanted was European glory but he didn’t have the team or the tactics for it.

Arteta is a young manager with a lot of ambition and a big ego. He is desperate to prove himself and make Arsenal a powerhouse.

There is absolutely no way he is going to settle for a top four position and not have enough financial backing to challenge for the PL and UCL.

Arteta is the hottest young manager in the world right now - his stock is rising each week and if the Arsenal board cannot give him what he wants, there will be plenty of big clubs like City, Barcelona, PSG etc. who would be eyeing him.

Everyone at Arsenal is one the same page right now. They are working together and you can see the ambition at the club. It is a very exciting time to be an Arsenal fan.

Its not just a case of wenger being content with top 4, thats what the owners wanted CL and the money that came with it as they basically were getting a return on their majority shareholding at the time. Wenger basically protected the owners for years when they never invested. No ambition at all.

- Do you believe that the owners will back the manager in january and strengthen for a title push? or do you think they are just bothered about top 4?

- There was no ambition shown last year january, so what exactly makes you think they will change 12 months later in january?

 

[Mamoon]

Its not just a case of wenger being content with top 4, thats what the owners wanted CL and the money that came with it as they basically were getting a return on their majority shareholding at the time. Wenger basically protected the owners for years when they never invested. No ambition at all.

- Do you believe that the owners will back the manager in january and strengthen for a title push? or do you think they are just bothered about top 4?

- There was no ambition shown last year january, so what exactly makes you think they will change 12 months later in january?

Arsenal had enough spending power from 2013 onwards to mount a title challenge. Wenger had full control of the transfer decisions but he had lost his touch in the market.

Yes the owners did not him give him the same money that the likes of City, Chelsea and a United had, but it is not like they instructed him not to fight for the league.

He did not sign a single outfield player in 2015 summer and bottled the league to Leicester. It wasn’t the owners fault, it was his own stubbornness and delusions.

A lot of Arsenal blame the board but Wenger was also part of the problem and he had to go.

We don’t know if the club will spend in January or not, but if Arsenal are at the top or in contention then we will surely see some activity in the window.

 

[topspin]

[MENTION=138771]Firebat[/MENTION]

There’s no agenda against Gabriel.

He makes glaring errors in each game. I don’t think you’ll find a single Arsenal fan here who doesn’t think this guy is a liability.

When I see our starting XI, I see 10 good players + a Brazilian liability in our defence. Arteta must bench him before he starts costing us points.

What I would pay to see is for Xhaka to slap him up and give him a good kick up the backside so he can wake up.

 

[Firebat]

[MENTION=138771]Firebat[/MENTION]

There’s no agenda against Gabriel.

He makes glaring errors in each game. I don’t think you’ll find a single Arsenal fan here who doesn’t think this guy is a liability.

When I see our starting XI, I see 10 good players + a Brazilian liability in our defence. Arteta must bench him before he starts costing us points.

What I would pay to see is for Xhaka to slap him up and give him a good kick up the backside so he can wake up.

I only mention the word "agenda" in the sense that there is an inability of fans to give credit where it's due and an over-eagerness to pile on him and exaggerate every little misstep. I don't think he is a flawless CB, I've said on here many times he's the weak link in the defence.

Yes he has made a couple of glaring errors this season, which he atoned for during those matches, but he is not doing it "each game" as I explained above and I would not go so far as to call him a liability.

People refuse to acknowledge the strengths he brings to the team. He plays an intrinsically higher-risk style of play than Saliba so it looks worse when it doesn't come off, so fans forget that he wins the vast majority of those high-risk duels, on the ground and in the air. They forget that he's the towering defensive aerial presence in our box, not Saliba, that he's the one that throws his body on the line for last-ditch blocks. They forget his progressive ability on the ball and outstanding pass completion rates. Go through and rewatch the games, check the stats, don't just listen to narratives.

I made a post detailing Gabriel's fantastic performance in the Leeds game when the rest of the defence didn't turn up and I was met with a post saying "what about x y z" etc. and the only mentions of him throughout the game was about an incident during which he was innocent.

Because he is involved in high profile moments like the LFC handball incident or the Bamford red card (both of which he did nothing wrong), fans omit from memory all the good defending he was doing in between.

A defensive pairing needs the different attributes to complement each other. There's a reason he's started every game for the last few seasons and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future. Those that pile on him game after game are not watching objectively, Arteta is.

 

[WengerOut]

I only mention the word "agenda" in the sense that there is an inability of fans to give credit where it's due and an over-eagerness to pile on him and exaggerate every little misstep. I don't think he is a flawless CB, I've said on here many times he's the weak link in the defence.

Yes he has made a couple of glaring errors this season, which he atoned for during those matches, but he is not doing it "each game" as I explained above and I would not go so far as to call him a liability.

People refuse to acknowledge the strengths he brings to the team. He plays an intrinsically higher-risk style of play than Saliba so it looks worse when it doesn't come off, so fans forget that he wins the vast majority of those high-risk duels, on the ground and in the air. They forget that he's the towering defensive aerial presence in our box, not Saliba, that he's the one that throws his body on the line for last-ditch blocks. They forget his progressive ability on the ball and outstanding pass completion rates. Go through and rewatch the games, check the stats, don't just listen to narratives.

I made a post detailing Gabriel's fantastic performance in the Leeds game when the rest of the defence didn't turn up and I was met with a post saying "what about x y z" etc. and the only mentions of him throughout the game was about an incident during which he was innocent.

Because he is involved in high profile moments like the LFC handball incident or the Bamford red card (both of which he did nothing wrong), fans omit from memory all the good defending he was doing in between.

A defensive pairing needs the different attributes to complement each other. There's a reason he's started every game for the last few seasons and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future. Those that pile on him game after game are not watching objectively, Arteta is.

Gabriel is a good defender but he is a nutcase. He had always had it in him to have a brainfreeze in the middle of a match for apparently no reason. Until last year it was once in every 5 matches or so. But this year it is almost every match and a half. He could be having a great performance but his mental freeze is affecting the outcome of a match. That is a serious issue. His mental issues are constant and we cannot expect him to atone the mistakes every time. He atleast needs a dressing down from the management.

 

[Firebat]

Gabriel is a good defender but he is a nutcase. He had always had it in him to have a brainfreeze in the middle of a match for apparently no reason. Until last year it was once in every 5 matches or so. But this year it is almost every match and a half. He could be having a great performance but his mental freeze is affecting the outcome of a match. That is a serious issue. His mental issues are constant and we cannot expect him to atone the mistakes every time. He atleast needs a dressing down from the management.

Sure, I agree with that. He needs a very stern word in his ear to cut it out.

 

[Rana]

The postponed game against City might be a blessing in disguise. No way City we’re going to lose two back to back away games against teams inferior to their squad. Arsenal will go into their two away games at the top of the league

 

[Mamoon]

The postponed game against City might be a blessing in disguise. No way City we’re going to lose two back to back away games against teams inferior to their squad. Arsenal will go into their two away games at the top of the league

It was the perfect time. City had just lost a match and would be under pressure, Arsenal’s confidence is sky high.

Who knows what the situation would be when Arsenal host City. Arsenal could be on a losing streak and City at the top of the league on the back of a winning streak.

I would have put my money on an Arsenal win or a draw if this match would have happened tomorrow.

 

[Amjid Javed]

Arsenal have both the everton and Man city games to reschedule. I think the everton one will be easier of the two to reschedule. I unless Arsenal and city go out of league cup and FA cup early the rescheduled game won be in January or feb. Strengthening squad in january is a must.

Arsenal fixtures

20 / 21 Dec League cup (4th round)
26 Dec - West Ham
31 Dec - Brighton
2 Jan - Newcastle
7 Jan - FA cup 3rd round
10 Jan - League Cup (1/4 finals)
14 Jan - Spurs
21 Jan - Man utd
25 Jan - League cup (semi final 1)
28 Jan - FA cup 4th Round
1 Feb - League cup (Semi final 2)
4 Feb - Everton
11 Feb - Brentford
18 Feb - Villa
25 Feb - Leicester or 26 Feb - League cup (Final)
1 Mar - FA cup 5th round
4 Mar - Bournemouth
9 Mar - Europa last 16 (1)
11 Mar - Fulham
16 Mar - Europa last 16 (2)
18 Mar - FA cup 6th round or PL vs Palace
1 Apr - Leeds
8 Apr - liverpool
13 Apr - Europa 1/4 final (1)
15 Apr - west ham
20 Apr - Europa 1/4 final (2)
22 Apr - FA cup semi final or PL vs Southampton
26 Apr - Man city
29 Apr - chelsea
6 May - Newcastle
11 May - Europa semi (1)
13 May - Brighton
18 May - Europa semi (2)
20 May - Forrest
28 May - Wolves
31 May - Europa Final
3 June - FA cup final

Everton and Man city games need to be squeezed in somewhere.

 

[Amjid Javed]

[MENTION=138771]Firebat[/MENTION]

Go watch Fourever Arsenal podcast and listen to what 4 Arsenal fans have to say on Gabriel incident.

"You are winning 1-0 with a few minutes to play and and you get fouled by a striker" so you are going to win a free kick.

Why not be smart and lie on the floor and milk the foul and take sting out of the game.

why kick out and then make the referee, linesmen, or VAR have to make a decision.

Its plain dumb.

Im sure most people in this thread would agree on the above when you think of it logically.

 

[topspin]

I only mention the word "agenda" in the sense that there is an inability of fans to give credit where it's due and an over-eagerness to pile on him and exaggerate every little misstep. I don't think he is a flawless CB, I've said on here many times he's the weak link in the defence.

Yes he has made a couple of glaring errors this season, which he atoned for during those matches, but he is not doing it "each game" as I explained above and I would not go so far as to call him a liability.

People refuse to acknowledge the strengths he brings to the team. He plays an intrinsically higher-risk style of play than Saliba so it looks worse when it doesn't come off, so fans forget that he wins the vast majority of those high-risk duels, on the ground and in the air. They forget that he's the towering defensive aerial presence in our box, not Saliba, that he's the one that throws his body on the line for last-ditch blocks. They forget his progressive ability on the ball and outstanding pass completion rates. Go through and rewatch the games, check the stats, don't just listen to narratives.

I made a post detailing Gabriel's fantastic performance in the Leeds game when the rest of the defence didn't turn up and I was met with a post saying "what about x y z" etc. and the only mentions of him throughout the game was about an incident during which he was innocent.

Because he is involved in high profile moments like the LFC handball incident or the Bamford red card (both of which he did nothing wrong), fans omit from memory all the good defending he was doing in between.

A defensive pairing needs the different attributes to complement each other. There's a reason he's started every game for the last few seasons and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future. Those that pile on him game after game are not watching objectively, Arteta is.

I see where you're coming from. I'm concerned about his emotional intelligence and I see him as someone who is crumbling.

It could be because Saliba has taken the spotlight and he's desperate to prove himself.

Rio Ferdinand has summed it up well here:

 

[Amjid Javed]

I see where you're coming from. I'm concerned about his emotional intelligence and I see him as someone who is crumbling.

It could be because Saliba has taken the spotlight and he's desperate to prove himself.

Rio Ferdinand has summed it up well here:

View attachment 117456

Gabriel should realize that its not about being centre of attention you play as a unit. The best defenders are those that quietly go about there business. Both Campbell and Toure prime examples of quietly doing what was required and not being stupid back in the day.

Rio is spot on with what he says.

 

[Firebat]

[MENTION=138771]Firebat[/MENTION]

Go watch Fourever Arsenal podcast and listen to what 4 Arsenal fans have to say on Gabriel incident.

"You are winning 1-0 with a few minutes to play and and you get fouled by a striker" so you are going to win a free kick.

Why not be smart and lie on the floor and milk the foul and take sting out of the game.

why kick out and then make the referee, linesmen, or VAR have to make a decision.

Its plain dumb.

Im sure most people in this thread would agree on the above when you think of it logically.

I see where you're coming from. I'm concerned about his emotional intelligence and I see him as someone who is crumbling.

It could be because Saliba has taken the spotlight and he's desperate to prove himself.

Rio Ferdinand has summed it up well here:

View attachment 117456

Yes the ArsenalVision Podcast mentioned similar sentiments, after lauding his performance that was one of the principle reasons we were still winning 1-0. He had literally made a goal-saving block minutes after Bamford's penalty miss.

There's not much else to say here. I don't defend his flaws, I agree with all of the above about his maturity and emotional intelligence, I just think they're exaggerated due to his involvement in headline incidents (at times deserved, at times not). These are flaws that can fade with more experience, age and a few rollockings from coaching staff and senior players. Defenders bloom later. Ferdinand himself had over 180 PL appearances before he was regularly starting for United. Van Dijk at the same age was in the Scottish league, as I mentioned.

He is very naturally talented at defending and brings a much-needed aggressive and aerial dynamic to the team. Even Ferdinand needed his Vidic.

We will lose more than we gain by putting White or Tomiyasu at LCB. There will be more space between the defensive and midfield line, more room for attackers to turn and our defence will be exposed more often. We will lose the primary contester of aerial balls at set pieces and crosses and we will lose a huge chunk of our build up play. That's why he'll continue to get selected.

 

[topspin]

Yes the ArsenalVision Podcast mentioned similar sentiments, after lauding his performance that was one of the principle reasons we were still winning 1-0. He had literally made a goal-saving block minutes after Bamford's penalty miss.

There's not much else to say here. I don't defend his flaws, I agree with all of the above about his maturity and emotional intelligence, I just think they're exaggerated due to his involvement in headline incidents (at times deserved, at times not). These are flaws that can fade with more experience, age and a few rollockings from coaching staff and senior players. Defenders bloom later. Ferdinand himself had over 180 PL appearances before he was regularly starting for United. Van Dijk at the same age was in the Scottish league, as I mentioned.

He is very naturally talented at defending and brings a much-needed aggressive and aerial dynamic to the team. Even Ferdinand needed his Vidic.

We will lose more than we gain by putting White or Tomiyasu at LCB. There will be more space between the defensive and midfield line, more room for attackers to turn and our defence will be exposed more often. We will lose the primary contester of aerial balls at set pieces and crosses and we will lose a huge chunk of our build up play. That's why he'll continue to get selected.

What I will say is in favour of Gabriel, last season he scored a number of goals - including some important/decisive ones as well.

But if he continues to be a liability this season and if he's not scoring from corners like he used to then Arteta seriously needs to bench him.

Even last season I had my concerns with his temperament but he was making up for it with some solid performances and goals from set pieces in between those errors which were less frequent than what we see now.

I fear for him because it's obvious that he's distinctly the worst player from our first XI.

I think Saliba's performances are putting him under immense pressure. One can understand why, Saliba is younger, far less experienced in the PL but is somehow showing everyone up. But what Gabriel has to remember is Saliba isn't just the best CB for Arsenal this season (so far) but he's been by far the best CB in the PL (to date).

 

[Firebat]

Former Arsenal defender William Gallas says current Gunners and Brazil forward Gabriel Martinelli, 21, is not yet good enough for a move to Real Madrid. (TalkSPORT)

Meanwhile, Gunners technical director Edu is wanted by two other European clubs but the former Arsenal midfielder is "100% focused" on his role at the north London outfit. (Fabrizio Romano)

 

[Rana]

Former Arsenal defender William Gallas says current Gunners and Brazil forward Gabriel Martinelli, 21, is not yet good enough for a move to Real Madrid. (TalkSPORT)

Meanwhile, Gunners technical director Edu is wanted by two other European clubs but the former Arsenal midfielder is "100% focused" on his role at the north London outfit. (Fabrizio Romano)

And Arsenal are offering him £100k a week lol

The boy is better than 90% of United’s wage roster. He is easily worth £200k+ considering Martial is charging £250k a week

 

[Amjid Javed]

A lot of fans on different forums are defending Gabriel saying we have won 9 out of 10 games whats the issue. i wonder what their thoughts would be if we had dropped points vs fulham, spurs, liverpool and leeds.

 

[Amjid Javed]

It was the perfect time. City had just lost a match and would be under pressure, Arsenal’s confidence is sky high.

Who knows what the situation would be when Arsenal host City. Arsenal could be on a losing streak and City at the top of the league on the back of a winning streak.

I would have put my money on an Arsenal win or a draw if this match would have happened tomorrow.

Man city have won 17 out of the last 18, (drawn 1) following after a loss. City dont lose 2 games in a row these days.

 

[Rana]

Man city have won 17 out of the last 18, (drawn 1) following after a loss. City dont lose 2 games in a row these days.

Agreed

They would have been too hot for Arsenal to handle. Haaland is an absolute monster in the Air. He could have scored 2 against Liverpool but just didn’t get the headers right.

 

[Amjid Javed]

Agreed

They would have been too hot for Arsenal to handle. Haaland is an absolute monster in the Air. He could have scored 2 against Liverpool but just didn’t get the headers right.

Last thing we needed is an Angry Man city and Haaland turning up to the emirates, especially when our team looked tired in 2nd half of leeds game. We can look at City game later in season and see how we go against them.

 

[WengerOut]

It was the perfect time. City had just lost a match and would be under pressure, Arsenal’s confidence is sky high.

Who knows what the situation would be when Arsenal host City. Arsenal could be on a losing streak and City at the top of the league on the back of a winning streak.

I would have put my money on an Arsenal win or a draw if this match would have happened tomorrow.

Arsenal were running on fumes at Leeds. Last thing they need is another high intensity team who are infinitely better and that too after a couple of days gap. There would have been a massacre.

 

[Firebat]

Arsenal will make late checks on the fitness of forward Gabriel Martinelli and full-back Oleksandr Zinchenko for their home Europa League game against Dutch side PSV Eindhoven on Thursday.

The pair missed training but boss Mikel Arteta said they were not ruled out.

Martinelli played throughout Sunday's 1-0 victory at Leeds, but Zinchenko has missed four matches with a calf injury.

 

[PakLFC]

Arsenal deserve to be respected for their efforts so far this season. Doesn't look good for them though if their fan's feel they are already tired then it can't be good. After the WC will be when their tired kegs will be put to the test and when Man City's big squad advantage come come to the fore. Martinelli, Jesus and Saka are world class players.

 

[Amjid Javed]

Arsenal deserve to be respected for their efforts so far this season. Doesn't look good for them though if their fan's feel they are already tired then it can't be good. After the WC will be when their tired kegs will be put to the test and when Man City's big squad advantage come come to the fore. Martinelli, Jesus and Saka are world class players.

Our team struggled with 1 game a week last season. This season Arsenal are in europe and also the world cup will disrupt things for everyone.

Last season Arsenal played 21 games from January till end of season.

18 PL - 1 FA - 2 LC

From this january Arsenal could play anything between 25 and 44, depending on how far they get in cup competitions. The teams needs strengthening in midfield and RW / Striker.

The gap between 6th and 1st just 9 nine points which right now isnt huge. This is why i aint getting carried away as to me apart from city no one is guaranteed top 4 this season.

 

[Firebat]

So far we've won 9 and lost 1.

If we get 13 wins, 5 draws and 10 losses from our next 28 games, we'll reach the 71 points that 4th place got last season.

That's why getting max points before the WC is so vital, giving us a good cushion.

 

[Amjid Javed]

So far we've won 9 and lost 1.

If we get 13 wins, 5 draws and 10 losses from our next 28 games, we'll reach the 71 points that 4th place got last season.

That's why getting max points before the WC is so vital, giving us a good cushion.

i think we might need slightly more points maybe 75. But i understand your point.

10 league Defeats in next 28 games would be a seriously bad return. we shouldnt be having double digit league defeats.

With start weve got we should be Aiming for 80 points at least.

I expect 10 points from next 4 games so we should be

Played 14 - won 12 drawn 1 lost 1 at world cup break. Thats 37 points and would be almost half way there to pushing for 80 points with 24 games still to play.

 

[Amjid Javed]

Arsenal team vs PSV

Turner, Tomiyasu, Holding, Gabriel, Tierney, Lokonga, Xhaka, Saka, Vieira, Nketiah, Jesus.

Subs: Ramsdale, Hein, White, Partey, Odegaard, Martinelli, Saliba, Cedric, Nelson, Marquinhos, Cirjan, Edwards.

Strong 11.

 

[Amjid Javed]

Comfortable 1-0 Win vs PSV. Should be able to rest players in last 2 group games now.

 

[MenInG]

Granit Xhaka scored the winner (1-0) as Arsenal edged closer to the last 16 of the Europa League with a narrow win over PSV Eindhoven at the Emirates.

The result leaves Mikel Arteta's side five points clear at the top of Group A after they maintained their 100% record.

It was also the Gunners' eighth successive victory in all competitions and they more than merited it in the rearranged contest that was originally scheduled to be played on 15 September but was postponed because of "severe limitations on police resources" following the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

Gabriel Jesus and Bukayo Saka had the pick of Arsenal's opportunities but some errant finishing and the performance of PSV's Argentine goalkeeper Walter Benitez made for a nervy evening.

However, Swiss international Xhaka drove a low effort into the bottom left corner from Takehiro Tomiyasu's cross to finally break PSV's resistance.

Arsenal will confirm their progression to the knockout stage as group winners if they claim at least a point in the reverse fixture in the Netherlands next week.

 

[PakLFC]

Our team struggled with 1 game a week last season. This season Arsenal are in europe and also the world cup will disrupt things for everyone.

Last season Arsenal played 21 games from January till end of season.

18 PL - 1 FA - 2 LC

From this january Arsenal could play anything between 25 and 44, depending on how far they get in cup competitions. The teams needs strengthening in midfield and RW / Striker.

The gap between 6th and 1st just 9 nine points which right now isnt huge. This is why i aint getting carried away as to me apart from city no one is guaranteed top 4 this season.

Enjoy the moment instead of worrying about the future. You're top of the league for now and could stay there too even if Man City are favourites. Who could have imagined for Leicester off all clubs to have won it some years back over even then the powerful Man City team. If they can do it then so can Arsenal as well.

To win comps you need to play an immense number of matches like Liverpool did last season. It comes with the territory.

 

[MenInG]

Arsenal have received a major boost as star centre-back Gabriel Magalhaes has penned a new long-term contract at the Emirates.

The 24-year-old has been a key player under Mikel Arteta since he arrived from Ligue 1 outfit Lille in 2020.

Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes has penned a new deal at the Emirates

Gabriel has started the opening ten Premier League games for the table-toppers having forged a formidable partnership with William Saliba.

And despite being tied down in north London until 2025, the Gunners have handed fresh terms to the Brazilian following his strong start to the season.

An Arsenal statement read: “Gabriel Magalhaes has signed a new long-term contract with us.

“Everyone at the club would like to congratulate Gabi on his new contract and look forward to his continued contribution.”

Speaking of the news, boss Arteta remarked: “Gabi has shown huge qualities since he joined us.

“He is a young player with a great work ethic and his consistent strong performances have been hugely important to us over the past two seasons.

TalkSport

 

[topspin]

Gabriel Magalhaes is lucky to be playing first team for Arsenal so not surprised to see him a pen a new contract.

What would bring me happiness is to see Saka, Martinelli and Saliba commit their futures to Arsenal. The longer it drags the more likely we'll lose at least one of them, something we can ill afford. This trio should all be on £200,000 per week.

 

[Amjid Javed]

Gabriel Magalhaes is lucky to be playing first team for Arsenal so not surprised to see him a pen a new contract.

What would bring me happiness is to see Saka, Martinelli and Saliba commit their futures to Arsenal. The longer it drags the more likely we'll lose at least one of them, something we can ill afford. This trio should all be on £200,000 per week.

Saka, Martinelli and Saliba all need to be give long bumper contracts i agree. All young talented players deserve it and need there value protected.