For years, Arsenal carried the unwanted label of being a “soft” team, unable to consistently compete against the Premier League’s elite. However, a single statistic now illustrates just how much the Gunners have evolved under Mikel Arteta: Arsenal are unbeaten in their last 15 Premier League matches against ‘Big Six’ opposition since the start of last season. This remarkable run highlights a seismic shift in mentality, resilience, and tactical acumen.
Gone are the days when Arsenal would wilt in high-pressure games against top teams. Now, they relish the challenge, whether it’s at home or away. Since the beginning of the 2023/24 campaign, Arsenal have faced rivals such as Manchester City, Liverpool, Chelsea, Manchester United, and Tottenham Hotspur and emerged unscathed. This run is not only impressive but unprecedented for a team that once struggled in these encounters.
LONDON, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 04: (L) William Saliba celebrates scoring the 2nd Arsenal goal with (2ndL) Kai Havertz, (3rdL) Leandro Trossard, (2ndR) Jakub Kiwior and (R) Declan Rice during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Manchester United FC at Emirates Stadium on December 04, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
The transformation starts with the mindset instilled by Arteta. The Arsenal manager has built a squad that combines technical brilliance with physicality and grit. Players like Declan Rice, William Saliba, and Gabriel Magalhães embody this shift, bringing a level of aggression and composure that has helped the Gunners thrive in big games.
Tactically, Arsenal are now capable of adapting to different opponents. Against possession-heavy teams like Manchester City, they’ve shown the discipline to defend compactly while countering effectively. Meanwhile, in high-tempo clashes with Liverpool and Tottenham, Arsenal have matched their opponents’ intensity and often outworked them. This versatility has been key to their unbeaten run against top-tier rivals.
The Emirates Stadium has become a fortress for Arsenal in big matches, but their away performances have been equally impressive. Wins at Old Trafford, Stamford Bridge, and the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium underline the team’s ability to handle hostile environments and turn the tables on their opponents.
LONDON, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 04: Jurrien Timber of Arsenal celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Manchester United FC at Emirates Stadium on December 04, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
This unbeaten streak has also been fueled by individual brilliance in key moments. Bukayo Saka’s consistency, Martin Ødegaard’s leadership, and Gabriel Martinelli’s explosiveness have often been the difference-makers. Additionally, the squad’s depth has played a crucial role, with players like Leandro Trossard and Jorginho stepping up when needed.
The psychological impact of this run cannot be overstated. Arsenal’s players now enter games against ‘Big Six’ opponents with unshakable belief, knowing they are more than capable of matching — and often surpassing — the best teams in the league. This confidence has also spread to the fanbase, who now expect results in these marquee fixtures.
LONDON, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 30: Players of Arsenal celebrate after Martin Odegaard of Arsenal (not pictured) scores his team’s third goal from a penalty kick during the Premier League match between West Ham United FC and Arsenal FC at London Stadium on November 30, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
While Arsenal’s unbeaten run against ‘Big Six’ rivals is a testament to their growth, it is also a statement of their ambitions. No longer are they content with competing; they are focused on dominating. With this newfound resilience, Arsenal have firmly re-established themselves as one of the Premier League’s elite.
As the Gunners continue their charge in the 2024/25 season, this 15-match streak against the league’s best is more than just a statistic — it’s proof that Arsenal are no longer a “soft” team. They are a team to be feared.