It seems Arsenal have now once again returned to where they started when Mikel Arteta had replaced Freddie Ljungberg as the permanent manager. The Spaniard has secured only one Premier League victory since taking charge of the Gunners and have been on a four-game winless streak which is why the North London side are tipped to finish outside the top seven this season.
In this article, we will discuss the three factors upon which Arsenal’s fate could depend on during the remainder of the campaign.
Aubameyang’s form
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang was out for three games due to suspension. The Gunners failed to win a single Premier League game while he was sidelined, even though Alexandre Lacazette had played reasonably well. But, what makes Aubameyang a class apart from other Arsenal attackers is his ability to run in behind the opposition defences.
Regardless of where he plays, the Gabonese international is always on the lookout for dangerous runs that often keeps the defenders occupied. But on Sunday, the striker looked extremely rusty against Burnley, when he finally returned from his suspension.
Indeed, Aubameyang missed at least three great opportunities to score, including a free header inside the opposing box. And it showed in his performance as Arsenal failed to break the deadlock, ultimately drawing the game 0-0.
Hence, it is quite safe to assume that the club’s fate this season could primarily depend on the performances of Aubameyang, whose tally of 14 goals in 23 matches have somehow helped Arsenal remain in the top half of the table.
The integration of new signings
The form of the two winter signings for Arsenal in Pablo Sari and Cedric Soares could be a key factor in determining Arteta’s chances of success during the remainder of this campaign.
Mari, in particular, can provide an alternative to the struggling defensive duo of Sokratis and David Luiz. But, the Spaniard has very little experience in European football, even though he has worked with Arteta in the past. And with that in mind, it could be very important for him and the club to integrate to the Premier League as quickly as possible.
As for Cedric, he already had a lot of experience in English football. But, with Hector Bellerin often allowing a lot of space to attackers out in the wide positions, it’s imperative that the Portuguese international offers more solidity in the backline, which, in turn, could enhance Arsenal’s overall performances.
Xhaka’s leadership
In a weird chain of events, Granit Xhaka has once become one of the most crucial members of the Arsenal squad despite facing a lot of stick from his own set of supporters, after the draw with Crystal Palace earlier in the season. He has now become a reliable first-team option in central midfield.
The Swiss international has also shown incredible versatility by slotting in between the two defenders, of late, thus adding more solidity to the backline. And his aggression and leadership could be key for the Gunners if they are to improve their defensive displays during the second half of the campaign.
