Mikel Arteta faces his best take a look at at Arsenal – the wheels are at risk of falling off
Arsenal still have the title in their own hands, but then again, so do Manchester City and only a fool would back the team which still doesn’t know how to get the job done
Mikel Arteta’s title challenge is in danger of imploding(Image: AP)
A few weeks ago Mikel Arteta appeared to be in charge of a juggernaut blazing towards the league title.
But the wheels are now in serious danger of falling off. When Arsenal travelled to relegation-threatened Nottingham Forest in the middle of last month, a win would have seen them open up a nine point lead at the top of the table.
Manchester City had suffered a shock derby defeat at United a few hours earlier. But Arsenal were held to a goalless draw in the Midlands. It didn’t feel too significant at the time, because Arsenal’s advantage remained seven points.
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But it was a sign of the wobble Arsenal were suffering. One which is now threatening to see them fall flat on their faces. The Molineux meltdown this week has left Arteta and his flops in turmoil.
Blowing a two goal lead to the team rock bottom of the table is not what wannabe champions do. Winning two of seven league games is damning evidence of Arsenal’s lack of stomach for the fight. Because Arsenal look about as threatening as a dry sponge.
When the going has got tough, Arsenal have folded like a deckchair. To make matters worse, reports have emerged that the Arsenal dressing room was a divided place in the wake of the 2-2 draw with Wolves.
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Certain individuals had to be separated, sides were taken and Molineux stewards could hear raised voices and items being smashed.
Pressure can make those feeling it do stupid things. Like what David Raya and Gabriel did in colliding, to allow Wolves to equalise.
Or Gabriel Jesus’s needless show of aggression and petulance at the final whistle. Arteta is now facing his greatest challenge since taking charge.
The Spaniard can feel the breath of arch-rival Pep Guardiola on the back of his neck. Which is not where any manager wants to be, let alone one who doesn’t know what it’s like to be a champion.
In times of trouble and division, a team looks to its manager for leadership, guidance, example and inspiration. Qualities Arsenal need in abundance in the coming weeks, starting with this weekend’s crunch north London derby against Tottenham.
The title is still in Arsenal’s hands. But then again, it is now in City’s hands should the proven winners go on to win all of their remaining league games, including one against Arsenal at the Etihad next month.
And the smart money will now be on the team which knows how to get the job done. Not the one which doesn’t.
