Arsenal’s loss to West Ham was a devastating setback as they missed out on an opportunity to take top spot in the Premier League. Their inability to score goals will increase calls for them to invest in an experienced striker before the transfer window closes.
The Gunners raced out to an early two-goal advantage but ultimately succumbed to the Hammers.
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No one anticipated Arsenal being in contention for this season’s title race or on the brink of ending their Premier League drought – both are stunning achievements that should not be undervalued.
On Thursday night, Mikel Arteta’s side were dealt a setback as they fell to West Ham and missed their chance at top spot. This defeat only underlined how crucial it is that Arsenal add reinforcements in January to strengthen their squad.
Premier League clubs should anticipate an active transfer window this month with several teams seeking reinforcements for various reasons. Chelsea and Manchester United want a new striker; Liverpool could seek left-back cover with Joel Matip out injured; while Arsenal requires another central midfielder.
Arsenal’s Goals
Arsenal have struggled to find ways past opposition defences this season, yet have managed some impressive goals, including late ones to seal victories over Tottenham and Fulham in recent weeks.
These two goals have propelled Manchester United past Chelsea into second place and provided them with an air of resilience that has been sorely missing in previous seasons.
Mikel Arteta has acknowledged his side’s need for reinforcements during January’s transfer window, with tonight’s defeat against West Ham only reinforcing these thoughts. It remains to be seen if they can add enough firepower to compete with Liverpool and Chelsea – yet another factor.
Saves
Arsenal needed to come back from behind to beat Manchester City last week and, following an entertaining 1-1 draw against Liverpool at Anfield, entered Christmas Day just one point ahead of Jurgen Klopp?s men.
But the sense of self-inflicted damage is clear. Mikel Arteta?s young group cannot now be accused of botching up a title challenge they themselves created.
Defence is of utmost importance in the Premier League, but quality in the final third is also necessary for success. Arsenal could become a contender with some additions; Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard have begun providing such quality; with both having scored 10 league goals each at this stage of the season!
Decisions
Arsenal’s young defence has come under scrutiny this season and Emery must address this issue immediately. Kieran Tierney’s weak header set up Brighton’s opening goal while Rob Holding is yet to return to form and fellow centre-backs Jakob Kiwior and Emile Smith Rowe have struggled.
Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli and Martin Odegaard have impressed as young players for the club; but their future development must now be decided upon or whether this January transfer window offers opportunities to add reinforcements.
Defense wise, Arsenal have improved; but their lack of bite in the final third was painful to witness against West Ham. Even with Said Benrahma’s late penalty shot effort from Said Benrahma’s penalty spot snatching their defeat wasn’t fair considering their efforts since August – tight calls have already cost them six points in Premier League play this term!