**Are Arsenal better than last season?**
Arsenal’s performances have proven that they are a much better-drilled side compared to last year. A primary example of this has been their previous three Prem fixtures: Fulham (A), West Ham (H) and Newcastle (A). All three of these match-ups last campaign they dropped points but have now redeemed themselves, winning them all with a minimum of fuss. Defensively, they have been rock solid too – only conceding three goals all season. On the other hand, the attacking strength is still there. Not only do they have the best goal difference in the league, the dismantling of Diego Simeone’s Atletico Madrid proved they can break down even the most renowned low blocks in Europe.
**Are Arsenal all about set-pieces?**
All the talk recently has been about the Gunners’ set-piece prowess and understandably so; in the league 11 of their 16 goals have come from them. Set-piece coach Nicolas Jover having his own mural by the stadium speaks volumes of his role in their success. Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka’s incredible dead-ball ability paired with the unstoppable force of Gabriel in the air go hand in hand. It is common for fans to doubt the sustainability of Arsenal’s methods, but ‘If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it’.
**How has Viktor Gyokeres fitted in?**
There have been very mixed opinions surrounding his performances so far. In 13 appearances he has scored five goals, including one penalty. Being the main striker people may expect a greater return, but he also shines elsewhere. Opposition defenders are aware of the threat he poses, which leaves more space for the wingers to capitalise on. Gyokeres’ hold up play is useful in delaying attacks to a point where it could be more fruitful. He seems to gel with the rest of the squad well and over time may continue to improve.
**And Leandro Trossard and Ben White?**
Ben White turned out to be a shrewd signing, with the Englishman playing an instrumental role. His and Saka’s chemistry on the right-hand side proved tricky for opponents to deal with – his overlaps were a primary route to goal for Arsenal for a while. The signing of Jurrien Timber alongside numerous injuries meant his gametime has stalled but he is still an important member of the squad.
Trossard has shined most notably when coming off the bench – since joining in Jan 2023 he leads the Premier League in substitute goal involvements. Fans label him our most ‘clutch’ player, netting important goals when they matter most – such as UCL quarter final last season against Bayern.
**Any unsung stars?**
Easy - Martin Zubimendi. It’s clear to see why the likes of Real Madrid and Liverpool were after him. He has the ability to control a game, play passes through the lines perfectly and has even popped up with a couple of goals too – one of which won the goal of the month for September.
Special mention to Jurrien Timber as well - to come back from an ACL injury and consistently put in the performances he has is otherworldly.
**How important is the Carabao Cup to the Gunners?**
With the squad depth available now, it can be used to re-integrate players returning from injury and acclimatise the younger members of the squad into the swing of things. Winning the Carabao Cup alone may be seen as an underachievement to some considering how Arsenal are playing and the ever-growing gap in the league. On the other hand, winning both together is whole different story. Different fans will have different opinions but at the end of the day a trophy is still a trophy.