In Video: Will an injury crisis derail Arsenal again? | #SkySportsFC
Will an Injury Crisis Derail Arsenal Again?
Arsenal’s title challenge faded last season due to a spate of injuries to key players, leaving them without a recognized striker and forced to play midfielders out of position. Fast forward to the current season, and it’s déjà vu for the Gunners. Despite a big recruitment drive over the summer, Arsenal are struggling ahead of their Champions League game against Slavia Prague tonight.
Summer signing Victor Yres is struggling with muscle problems, joining forwards Kai Havertz, Gabriel Martinelli, Noni Marque, and Gab on the sidelines. The absence of playmaker Martin Odigard only adds to Arsenal’s woes, leaving them without a recognized striker again. Mikuel Mourinho or Leandro Trosard can play there, but Jorginho, Trosard, and Ez are the only fit forwards, none of whom are natural strikers. The youngsters Ethan Raneri and Max Dean have played in the Premier League this season, but they’re not strikers either.
Is it a Problem?
While it’s not a massive problem for tonight’s game, it could be a bigger issue going forward. Arsenal can still dominate games by controlling the midfield and playing with a slightly false nine, someone who’s not a natural striker. However, it’s a problem that Arsenal experienced last season, and it’s the reason they went out and signed Jorginho.
Arsenal’s squad depth has been praised all season, and it’s true that they have plenty of options upfront. However, having three key forwards out at the same time is a significant blow.
Are the Injuries Down to Bad Luck or Something More?
It’s difficult to say whether the injuries are down to bad luck or something more. While it’s easy to point to Arsenal’s style of play or training methods, it’s all speculation from the outside. The knee injuries that have plagued the team suggest that it might not be related to their training methods, as knees are often hurt due to twisting and turning.
A Strong Start to the Season
Despite the injuries, Arsenal have made a strong start to the season, finishing top of the Premier League with six points clear after 10 games. They’ve won eight, drawn one, and lost one, and their only defeat came against Manchester City. While they’re not scoring as many goals as they should, they’ve been solid defensively.
In fact, Arsenal have been praised for their performance in draws against Manchester City and Liverpool, where they were very much in the game until the Bulls of chance changed the outcome. It’s clear that they’re doing something right, and they’ve earned credit for their set piece goals.
However, it’s true that they’re not scoring enough from open play, and teams are defending deep against them. Arsenal will need to find a way to break down these defenses and start scoring more goals if they’re to maintain their title challenge.
