Arsenal return to Premier League action against Leeds United on Saturday knowing there is little room for another setback in their title defence.
The international break offered Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta time to reflect on the disappointing 3-0 defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion, but the Gunners cannot afford a slow return to action.
That defeat ended Arsenal’s perfect start to the campaign and allowed Manchester City to move three points clear at the top of the table.
Although five league matches are hardly enough to determine a title race, the manner of Arsenal’s collapse at the Amex Stadium was particularly concerning.
Brighton exposed weaknesses in the Gunners’ pressing, defensive organisation and intensity, leaving Arteta with plenty to address.
Saturday’s opponents are unlikely to make those adjustments straightforward.
Leeds arrive at the Emirates Stadium unbeaten in five Premier League matches, having collected nine points from two victories and three draws.
Daniel Farke’s side have already beaten Newcastle United 4-1 and held Brighton to a draw, demonstrating their ability to trouble established opponents.
Their defensive record is equally impressive, with just three goals conceded in five league outings.
Arsenal should therefore expect a disciplined, confident visiting side determined to make every opportunity count.
The Gunners dominated this fixture last season, winning 5-0 at home and 4-0 at Elland Road, but those results offer little protection against Leeds’ current form.
Arteta must also navigate another difficult injury situation following the international break.
Kai Havertz, Christos Tzolis, Ezri Konsa and Declan Rice have all experienced fitness concerns, while William Saliba remains unavailable with a back problem.
Those setbacks could test Arsenal’s squad depth, although injuries cannot become an excuse for another below-par performance.
The champions still possess sufficient quality to impose themselves, particularly at home, where they have won their last five league matches.
Viktor Gyokeres also returns from international duty in encouraging form after scoring four goals for Sweden.
Arsenal will need that attacking sharpness alongside the defensive discipline that underpinned last season’s championship success.
Arteta’s new contract until 2030 provides welcome stability, but Saturday offers a more immediate opportunity to demonstrate why Arsenal remain title contenders.
The Gunners cannot recover the points surrendered at Brighton, but they can ensure that defeat does not develop into a damaging sequence.
Leeds will arrive determined to protect their unbeaten record and make Arsenal earn every point.
For the champions, matching that determination must be the minimum requirement.
If Arsenal intend to retain their crown, they must start playing like champions again.
