Arsenal finds itself in a precarious situation as recent performances, notably a lackluster draw against West Ham, highlight their attacking struggles. Gabriel Jesus, the starting striker, has failed to meet expectations, leaving the Gunners in trouble as they drop crucial points in the race for the title.
The underwhelming performance, both defensively and offensively, has raised concerns for manager Mikel Arteta, particularly regarding the form of key players like Gabriel Jesus.
While the defensive lapses were evident, the real cause for worry lies in Arsenal’s attacking play. Despite amassing 30 shots and creating five significant chances, the Gunners failed to find the back of the net in 100 minutes of football. Gabriel Jesus, in particular, had a forgettable evening, missing two headers from close range. The Brazilian striker’s profligate finishing has been a recurring issue throughout the season.
Arsenal legend Thierry Henry expressed his concerns during post-match analysis, pointing out that Jesus had multiple opportunities to score. With just three goals in 14 Premier League appearances this season, Jesus has struggled to deliver the expected level of performance in crucial matches, including the North London derby.
Arteta, when questioned about the missed chances, refrained from singling out any individual player. However, the manager acknowledged the need for Arsenal to be more clinical in front of goal, emphasizing the necessity of generating more opportunities.
The situation is exacerbated by injuries and a lack of rotation options, especially in attack. With limited alternatives, Eddie Nketiah, while showing glimpses of brilliance, lacks the consistency required at the highest level. The absence of a high-caliber striker puts additional pressure on Arteta to find a solution in the January transfer window.
One potential solution could be the pursuit of Ivan Toney from Brentford. The forward, previously linked with Arsenal and Chelsea, is set to return from a gambling ban in January. Despite reported interest from rival clubs, Brentford’s manager, Thomas Frank, has expressed the club’s desire to retain Toney. Frank praised Toney’s commitment in training and stated that no offers had been received.
As Arsenal navigates a challenging period and eyes the Premier League title, addressing the striking woes becomes imperative. The January transfer window offers a crucial opportunity for the Gunners to reinforce their attacking options and bolster their chances of success in the second half of the season.
