HeadlinesBriefing favicon HeadlinesBriefing.com

Arsenal's title test: ruthlessness lacking

BBC Sport Football •
×

Arsenal's title challenge faltered as they drew 1-1 with missed chances proving costly. Mikel Arteta acknowledged his team's lack of ruthlessness, stating "The reality is in the two boxes today was the difference - and that's what decided the game." Kai Havertz scored his first goal of the season but missed two clear opportunities, including a 95th-minute header from close range.

Gyokeres joined Arsenal for £64m last summer but questions persist about his Premier League suitability. While scoring 18 goals in all competitions, the forward's effectiveness against top-tier opponents remains questionable. Arsenal's current forward options lack the pedigree of past title winners like Haaland, Salah, and Aguero, with only Eze showing consistent form against rivals.

Former defender Gael Clichy criticized Arsenal's reliance on set-pieces, suggesting the team avoids risks rather than pursuing victory. With 35.8 expected goals from open play - sixth in the league - Arsenal's inability to dominate matches from open play may ultimately decide their title fate.