Another season in the UEFA Youth League and as things stand it seems as if it will be an all too familiar outcome for Arsenal U19s.
After losing 4-3 to Atletico Madrid in a chaotic encounter yesterday Arsenal face an uphill task if they are to progress to the knockout stages of this competition.
There had been some signs of encouragement in the first half as Arsenal, under the guidance of new coach David Horseman, appeared to have greater structure and flair than usual.
Atletico, though, seized control in the second period and at times Arsenal were run ragged as they found it difficult to cope with the technical ability and physicality of their opponents.
Arsenal haven’t progressed beyond the initial stage since returning to the competition in 2023 and also endured some difficulties prior to that, so why is this competition such a struggle for the club?
Numerous reasons have been suggested, with one claim being that Arsenal find it difficult when posed different threats that they are used to facing domestically.
It is also the case that in many other countries clubs have U19 teams that play domestic football, whereas in England teams play at U21 and U18 level. That, though, doesn’t explain why Tottenham and Chelsea have done well in the Youth League so far this season.
There will be focus on the quality of individuals but Arsenal certainly have some talented players in their team. Yesterday, for instance, they were able to call upon Max Dowman, Marli Salmon, Andre Harriman-Annous, Ife Ibrahim and others.
Improvements will be needed for the next game away to Slavia Prague, with a home game against Bayern Munich and an away fixture against Club Brugge to follow.
Arsenal will need to show more composure and be more dominant physically if they are to take anything from their remaining three fixtures.
The young Gunners will also need to demonstrate greater resilience if they are to avoid another early exit.