Arsenal start their season with the apprehension of losing the first game yet again. Manager Arsene Wenger reiterated it in the post-match conference of the FA Community Shield win that it would be hugely important to continue that momentum to the league.
However, Arsenal haven’t managed to do that in the past few seasons and if they repeat the custom this season too, Wenger is in huge trouble. The Frenchman is in danger of losing everything if he fails to deliver any major silverware this season. Europa League and Premier League remains his top priority by all means.
Strength
Attacking midfield remains their strongest by all means. Arsene Wenger perhaps has the best-attacking midfield in the league with the likes of Alexis Sanchez, Mesut Ozil, Alex Iwobi and Theo Walcott. And the arrival of Alexandre Lacazette is the reason for it. The French forward boasts of a brilliant conversion rate and Arsenal’s effective midfield could make him all the more effective.
Weakness
Despite bringing in an absolutely brilliant option in Sead Kolasinac from Bundesliga side FC Schalke, Gunners’ defence looked bleak as ever against Chelsea in the Community Shield. Although Laurent Koscielny and Shkodran Mustafi are yet to join the side, Arsenal still lack a leader at their back. And with Wenger already hinting at squad shuffling on Thursday nights, the likes of Rob Holding and Per Mertesacker could be risky choices.
Key Men
As always, Arsenal will have some very talented players to take the field but how far will they impact in the title bid is a different question. Granit Xhaka has been a magic to watch from their deep midfield since January last season. He had a 100% passing percentage on Sunday and is finally expected to reach the level he was brought in for. Alexis Sanchez and Alexandre Lacazette are heavily touted to cross the 20-goal mark with the kind of support they have at the back. Apart from him, Sead Kolasinac needs a special mention although he would need time adjusting.
Expectations
Arsenal face Liverpool and Chelsea in the first five games of the season, both away. And given the way they have upgraded their squad this season, it’s going to be excessively tough for them. However, Arsene Wenger is a veteran in this league and is more than aware of the factors that should be avoided. Although they are hardly title challengers, they are more than likely to finish in the top three.
