Mikel Arteta has orchestrated a remarkable transformation at Arsenal, turning them into the Premier League’s most potent attacking force despite the absence of a world-class striker leading the line. This represents a stark contrast to their struggles just two years ago.
In recent weeks, Arsenal has showcased fine form, aiming to sustain their impressive momentum with a convincing victory over Sheffield United on Monday. Earlier in the season, the team faced criticism for their lack of cutting edge in attack, sparking calls for a new striker in the upcoming summer transfer window. However, their fortunes have dramatically shifted, evidenced by their tally of 25 goals in their last six Premier League matches.
Comparatively, two years prior, Arsenal endured a dire spell, failing to score in seven consecutive halves of football. The current situation stands in stark contrast, with the team finding the net at least twice in their last seven Premier League halves, a historical first for any team in the division.
Arsenal’s 21-game unbeaten streak in the Premier League underscores their resurgence, keeping them firmly in the title race, trailing leaders Liverpool by just two points. Arteta attributes their prolific form to a strong collective mentality, with goals coming from various positions on the pitch, including defenders, midfielders, and forwards.
Following their 4-1 victory over Newcastle, Arteta emphasized the team’s cohesive mindset as the driving force behind their impressive run, highlighting their ability to perform collectively as a key factor in their success.
“The team is hitting form, we are in a good moment, the players individually are performing,” said Arteta. “It’s not any secret things are flowing at the moment. We are scoring goals in various ways and we want more. We score one and we want to go for the second and third and the fourth one and I love that mentality from the team.
“We have to do that, because we won a lot of games last year, and this year when we deserved more and we generated more, I think today it could’ve been much more as well, but we have to demand ourselves that. We train every day in the best possible way, look after ourselves and, first of all, believe that you can do it.”
