Arsenal’s defensive struggles on the road have become a growing concern as a worrying statistic highlights a notable drop in their resilience. According to Opta, the Gunners have failed to keep a clean sheet in their last six Premier League away matches. This equals their longest run without an away shutout under Mikel Arteta’s tenure, raising questions about their ability to maintain defensive solidity in challenging environments.
This troubling trend is a stark contrast to the defensive improvements Arsenal showcased last season. The Gunners’ ability to keep things tight at the back, particularly away from home, was a key component of their success in 2023/24. However, that solidity seems to have evaporated in recent months. Defensive lapses and a failure to shut down opponents effectively have seen Arsenal drop crucial points in games they might otherwise have won.
One of the underlying factors could be injuries to key defenders and rotation within the backline. With players like Jurrien Timber and Jakub Kiwior being shuffled into different roles, the chemistry that once defined Arsenal’s defense has been disrupted. Additionally, tactical tweaks such as deploying Thomas Partey at right-back have occasionally left the team vulnerable to counter-attacks.
Another concern is their struggle to maintain concentration during critical moments. Whether it’s conceding from set-pieces or failing to track runners in open play, Arsenal’s defensive performances lack the discipline and sharpness expected of a team aiming for a title push.
Arteta will need to address these issues swiftly. If Arsenal are to mount a serious challenge for silverware this season, rediscovering their defensive steel on the road will be essential. As the fixtures pile up, the Gunners must find a way to restore balance and resilience in their backline.