Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal once again left empty handed against Liverpool. Their long wait for a win continuing for another tough evening.
Arsenal crumble against Liverpool
Arsenal walked into Anfield with the bold call to “make a statement” on social media. But, what they produced on the pitch was anything but bold. In choosing to play it safe, rather than going toe for toe with the champions, they lost.
Although, Liverpool didn’t play close to their best. But, they still secured a late winner thanks to an excellent free-kick taken by Dominik Szoboszlai and claimed the full 3 points. The Gunners looked like a side that were somehow fighting to hold onto a point. Anfield does not offer great rewards to teams who play too safe.
Arsenal’s timid setup only highlighted the mental block that continues to haunt them on Merseyside. Their record tells the story. They have no win in 13 league visits, just one clean sheet in the last 27.
Big spending, same old story
This summer was supposed to be the turning point. Arsenal spent heavily, splashing £248m on new firepower. Viktor Gyokeres arrived as the long-awaited striker, while Eberechi Eze was prised away from Tottenham’s grasp in a headline deal. The club handed Arteta the tools to break their trophy drought, but at Anfield those weapons were holstered.
Injuries to Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard and William Saliba didn’t help, yet the overall approach showed fear more than ambition. Meanwhile, Liverpool sent out the real message. They claimed nine points from nine and landed a psychological blow on their closest challengers.
Author’s Opinion
Arsenal won’t win titles playing with the handbrake on. Arteta is trying to turn his expensive squad into serious challengers. He has to lose the fear that exists in grounds like Anfield. Until this happens, Liverpool will continue to remind them who the real kings are in the PL.