Former Arsenal defender and club legend Martin Keown has offered his insights on how the Gunners can maintain their momentum and improve as the season progresses. Speaking about the challenges Arsenal face and the potential solutions, Keown emphasized the importance of adaptability, squad depth, and young talents stepping up to fill key roles.
“It’s Up to Someone to Step Up”
With injuries and a demanding fixture list testing Arsenal’s squad depth, Keown highlighted the need for players to rise to the occasion. He specifically mentioned Ethan Nwaneri, the 16-year-old wonderkid who has already made waves with his performances in youth setups and cameo appearances for the first team.
“Maybe Nwaneri, who has been playing in the Ødegaard role, can come into the front line and give us something different,” Keown suggested. “You’ve got to make it difficult for your opponent, but Arsenal are still very much in this fight.”
Nwaneri’s potential inclusion in the senior lineup could offer Arsenal a new dynamic, particularly with key players like Bukayo Saka currently sidelined due to injury. Keown’s confidence in the youngster underscores the club’s long-standing tradition of nurturing talent and trusting youth.
A Tough Start to the Season
Keown also pointed out the difficult fixture schedule Arsenal have faced in the early part of the campaign. Away trips to Aston Villa, Manchester City, and Chelsea, along with other challenging matches, have put Mikel Arteta’s side under pressure from the outset.
“When you’re having to go to Villa Park, Man City away, Chelsea away, these are all very difficult games,” Keown noted. “And of course, some of those fixtures Liverpool haven’t yet faced.”
Despite the tough start, Arsenal have managed to remain competitive, showcasing resilience and the ability to grind out results when needed. However, Keown believes the Gunners must find ways to keep pushing forward if they are to challenge for silverware this season.
The Importance of Squad Depth and Tactical Flexibility
Keown stressed the importance of squad depth in navigating the challenges of a long campaign, particularly with injuries and a congested fixture schedule. Players like Leandro Trossard, Gabriel Jesus, and even Kai Havertz could play crucial roles in Arsenal’s attack as they look to cope without Saka in the coming weeks.
Additionally, tactical flexibility will be key. Arteta’s ability to adapt his strategies and make use of all available resources could prove decisive as the team competes on multiple fronts, including the Premier League, Champions League, and domestic cups.
“Still Very Much in This Fight”
Despite the challenges, Keown remains optimistic about Arsenal’s prospects. “Arsenal are still very much in this fight,” he said, underlining the team’s potential to compete with the likes of Manchester City and Liverpool for top honors this season.
With young talents like Nwaneri ready to step up, and a squad filled with quality and experience, Arsenal’s journey this season will hinge on their ability to adapt, persevere, and rise to the occasion in crucial moments.