Since Mikel Arteta’s appointment in 2019, he has overseen a major transformation at Arsenal. He created a squad that plays attractive football and developed a young and exciting group of players.
As a result of that, Arteta’s side have consistently challenged at the top end of the table for the last three seasons, competing with Manchester City and Liverpool.
Embed from Getty ImagesHowever, as time passes and the wait for a trophy continues, questions must be asked. Is Arteta still the right man for Arsenal? Whilst the Spaniard has brought consistency, the trophies remain elusive.
The Gunners have come agonisingly close in recent years, yet they seem to fall short in the crucial moments, leaving fans frustrated by the inability to turn potential into silverware.
Is patience the key to long-term success, or is it time for a change at the Emirates?
Embed from Getty ImagesProgress or plateau?
Under Arteta, Arsenal have made significant strides, including winning the FA Cup and returning to the Champions League. The development of emerging talents like Ethan Nwaneri and Lewis Myles-Skelly, shows the club’s bright future.
However, there have been setbacks. Arsenal’s title challenge in 2022/23 faltered with a 3-3 draw against Southampton, and they’ve faced disappointing exits in European competitions. While they’ve made progress, the team still needs to find the consistency to turn potential into trophies. The key will be improving at crucial moments to reach the next level.
Embed from Getty ImagesArteta’s tactical impact
Arteta’s tactical approach has been vital to Arsenal’s growth, his philosophy focuses on positional play, defensive solidity and player versatility.
However, questions remain about whether his rigid tactics and lack of a “Plan B” is holding the Gunners back.
Despite many top performances against the top six over the years and an impressive unbeaten run, Arsenal have collapsed in high-pressure matches against lesser opposition.
During the 2022/23 season, Arsenal crumbled at a vital stage in the title race as they were unable to break down defensive teams who sat in a low block. Their failure to change approach resulted in frustrating draws against West Ham and Southampton.
Last season, history repeated itself as they lost three games on the bounce after a positive start to the campaign. In their 2-0 loss against West Ham, the Gunners had 74% possession, attempted 30 shots and missed all five big chances.
This campaign, they have continued to drop points due to their lack of ruthlessness and inability to change their approach mid-game. Across both games against Brighton, Arsenal missed eight of their ten big chances.
Against Everton, Arsenal had 77% possession and attempted 13 shots but still failed to score.
Is the squad built to win now?
Arsenal have a talented young core and solid squad depth, especially in attack and defence. Bukayo Saka and Martin Ødegaard are key and multiple defensive reinforcements have strengthened the backline.
But key issues remain. They still lack a clinical number nine, and there’s a shortage of experienced winners in the squad. Despite heavy spending, some signings—like Kai Havertz—haven’t fully convinced, while GabrielJesus’ injury record raises doubts.
Arsenal have built a strong foundation, but to take the next step, they may need a proven goalscorer and more leaders who’ve been there and done it. They are linked with Newcastle’s Alexander Isak and Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins, both of whom would certainly provide the clinical threat they are crying out for.
What’s next?
Arteta’s long-term vision has instilled a clear and progressive strategy, which they lacked in the initial post-Wenger years. He has built a strong foundation and brought consistency to the Emirates.
Arsenal have shown steady progress under Arteta but elite clubs demand trophies. There are doubts around whether the Spaniard reach those heights.
Sometimes it takes a fresh perspective to push a team past the threshold, especially when competing against top clubs.
Embed from Getty ImagesArteta’s tenure has not brought Arsenal a Premier League title. Therefore, it might be time for a change.
If Arsenal were to bring in a new manager, names like Luis Enrique or Zinedine Zidane come to mind. Their experience at top European clubs and winning important titles makes them solid candidates for taking Arsenal to the next level.
The pair also have a track record of success that suggests they can provide the leadership and winning mentality Arsenal need. Ultimately,whilst Arteta is a fantastic manager, Arsenal may need a new man in charge to push for bigger achievements.
Embed from Getty ImagesFinal thoughts
Arteta has transformed Arsenal, but they need trophies. The failure to break down defensive teams and deliver in crucial moments continues to hold them back.
Patience could bring the Gunners long-term success, but with trophies at stake, Arsenal must decide if they are willing to take that risk and stick with Arteta.
So I’ll ask you again, is patience the key to long-term success, or is it time for Arsenal to make a change?
Written by Isabelle Newnham
INMR FOOTBALL 
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