The Athletic FC Podcast: Has Arteta Made Arsenal Too Predictable?
Release Date: January 16, 2025
In this insightful episode of The Athletic FC Podcast, hosts Ayo Akinwolere, David Ornstein, Phil Hay, Adam Crafton, and Matt Slater delve deep into the pivotal question: Has Mikel Arteta made Arsenal too predictable? Through comprehensive analysis and expert commentary, the podcast explores Arsenal's recent performances, tactical evolutions, squad dynamics, and future prospects under Arteta’s management.
1. Introduction to Arsenal’s Recent Form
David Ornstein opens the discussion by evaluating Arsenal's latest triumph over Tottenham. The comeback victory not only boosted local pride but also raised questions about the team's consistency and adaptability under pressure.
"It was a narrow victory against a Spurs side who are not having a good season in the League... Arsenal need to go on a consistent run of form in this second half of the season to really put them in the frame for the Premier League, for the Champions League..."
— David Ornstein [03:13]
2. Team Resilience and Adversity
Ornstein emphasizes the squad’s ability to respond to adversity, a trait that has been honed over Arteta’s tenure.
"They have had to respond to adversity in the past and they've done that to varying degrees... There is enough there that there is so much riding on it for Mikel Arteta this season, for Arsenal, for some of those players with points to prove."
— David Ornstein [03:13]
Jordan Campbell elaborates on the psychological aspects, noting the importance of fan support during challenging times.
"When they go one-nil down, it'd be quite easy for the fans to turn on them and start losing patience. But they stuck with them. And I think Arsenal, on another day, win 6, 7, 1. That's how many chances they created."
— Jordan Campbell [06:20]
3. Tactical Consistency vs. Predictability
A central theme is whether Arteta’s tactical consistency has led to predictability on the pitch. While consistency has its merits, Campbell argues that Arsenal lacks the "ruthless edge" needed to capitalize on their dominance.
"The problem for this Arsenal team is even when they're playing very well, they don't go through the gears enough and go and kill games off within half an hour. I think the same questions over, over firepower still remain."
— Jordan Campbell [07:32]
IO Akimolera adds that Arsenal requires equilibrium to maintain their competitive edge without swinging between extreme highs and lows.
"Arsenal now, a little bit of equilibrium is needed and they'll be the first to admit that they need to start seeing off matches like this... It's like just calming things down and trying to form some consistency that ultimately makes title-winning teams."
— IO Akimolera [08:38]
4. Impact of Injuries and Squad Depth
The discussion shifts to Arsenal's injury woes and their impact on the team's performance. Ornstein highlights the critical injuries to key players like Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz.
"The injury to Jesus definitely intensifies their need and desire to do something in the market... Mikel Arteta's ideal situation, his dream would be to sign Alexander Isaac."
— IO Akimolera [14:26]
Campbell points out the challenges posed by missing players and the necessity for Arsenal to react strategically in the January transfer window.
"They have lost two very, very important players. We have 14 players in the squad and we play every three days."
— Jordan Campbell [16:35]
5. Transfer Window Strategies and Targets
Ornstein and Akimolera discuss potential transfer targets and the complexities Arsenal faces in strengthening the squad amidst injury setbacks.
"Benjamin Sesko is somebody that they've liked for a long time. A move in January, I'm told is unlikely... If they are to sign someone like Vlavic, I don't know if Juventus being ready to loan him out."
— IO Akimolera [20:41]
Campbell reflects on Arsenal's past transfer strategies and the importance of finding the right balance between immediate needs and long-term planning.
"If you can afford to do something now, would it be a relatively modest permanent transfer fee because of what's potentially coming in the summer, or are they able to go bigger?"
— IO Akimolera [20:41]
6. Youth Development and Rising Stars
A significant portion of the podcast is dedicated to Arsenal’s youth players, particularly Louis Skelly, whose standout performance in the North London Derby has caught attention.
"He looked like a grown man in that position... Louis Skelly has got a man's body already at 18 and I thought he was exceptional."
— Jordan Campbell [35:17]
Akimolera praises Arteta’s commitment to nurturing young talent, despite the challenges posed by a thin squad.
"Arteta deserves credit for spotting that potential and bringing it through. Louis Skelly... has taken to it really well."
— IO Akimolera [38:49]
7. Future Outlook and Strategic Recommendations
As the season progresses, the hosts discuss the optimistic yet cautious outlook for Arsenal. The necessity for the team to maintain form, capitalize on opportunities, and strategically manage player rotations is emphasized.
Campbell underscores the importance of Arsenal having a "ruthless edge" to sustain their title challenge.
"Arteta can show again that he can change things in the season and he can find that, you know, vein of form, I wouldn't write off Arsenal going on the run. They just have to show that ruthless edge that they've been missing."
— Jordan Campbell [43:12]
Akimolera concludes by highlighting Arsenal’s resourcefulness and adaptability, suggesting that the club remains a formidable contender if they can navigate the current challenges effectively.
"Arsenal have shown their versatility in the market... they will be ready to do something. There is some resource available."
— IO Akimolera [30:00]
8. Conclusion
The episode wraps up with a reflection on Arsenal's resilience and the critical match against Tottenham serving as a turning point. The consensus among the hosts is that while Arsenal faces significant challenges, their underlying quality and strategic decisions under Arteta keep them in the race for top honors.
"If Arteta can show again that he can change things in the season and he can find that, you know, vein of form, I wouldn't write off Arsenal going on the run. They just have to show that ruthless edge that they've been missing."
— Jordan Campbell [43:12]
Key Takeaways:
- Arteta's Tactical Consistency: While providing stability, there are concerns about predictability and a lack of clinical finishing.
- Injury Management: Critical injuries have strained Arsenal's squad depth, necessitating strategic moves in the transfer window.
- Youth Integration: Promising talents like Louis Skelly are stepping up, showcasing Arsenal’s commitment to youth development.
- Transfer Window Challenges: Balancing immediate needs with long-term planning remains a focal point for Arsenal’s management.
- Future Prospects: Arsenal remains a strong contender, provided they maintain form, capitalize on key matches, and address squad weaknesses effectively.
This episode offers a comprehensive analysis for Arsenal fans and football enthusiasts alike, providing a nuanced perspective on the club's trajectory under Mikel Arteta.