Tactical Troubles: Can Arteta Break Arsenal's Losing Streak?

The Premier League title race has produced numerous iconic moments over the years, including Steven Gerrard's infamous slip and Kevin Keegan's despair at Anfield. However, the recent image of a Manchester City fan mocking Arsenal with a bottle in the Stamford Bridge away end may have significant implications for the title race. With City trailing six points behind, the fan's actions reflect the ominous atmosphere surrounding the competition, where history seems to be repeating itself. This is the time of year when Manchester City typically hits its stride, while Arsenal often falters. Under Mikel Arteta, Arsenal's win percentage drops below 50% in April, whereas City has remained unbeaten in this month for five years. Arsenal's recent slump has led to doubts about their ability to win the championship. After suffering just three defeats in their first 49 games, they have since doubled their losses in the last four matches. The question remains: what is behind Arsenal's decline, and how can Arteta reverse the trend? One factor contributing to Arsenal's struggles is their tactical approach. In their defeat to Bournemouth, Arsenal's players passed the ball back to David Raya 38 times during the 95 minutes, indicating a lack of progress in their build-up play. Bournemouth's four-man press effectively shut down the middle of the pitch, forcing Arsenal to rely on long passes or play out to their center-backs, both of which gave the opposition a chance to win the ball back. As a result, Bournemouth's two goals arose from Arsenal's mistakes. Arteta has had time to address this tactical issue over the international break but has yet to find a solution. With a reunion against Manchester City looming, he needs to find an answer quickly. The pressure is on Arteta to demonstrate his tactical acumen and change the narrative. In contrast, Pep Guardiola has successfully transformed Nico O'Reilly into a goal-scoring machine, a feat he also achieved with Josko Gvardiol two seasons ago. Arteta's management of his squad has also been called into question, particularly with regards to Martin Zubimendi. The Spanish midfielder has played the most minutes among Arsenal's outfield players, looking exhausted, and his form has suffered as a result. Meanwhile, Christian Norgaard has played just 995 minutes this term, raising questions about Arteta's rotation policy. The Bournemouth game highlighted Arsenal's reliance on set pieces for attacking play, with an open play xG of 0.19 against the Cherries. There may be a deeper issue with Arsenal's mindset, as Guardiola suggested after his team beat Chelsea: 'It is the mindset, not the tactics.' Arteta's pre-match rallying cries to the fans have been seen as an attempt to raise the volume and create a sense of urgency. However, this approach may be counterproductive, adding to the tension and anxiety surrounding the team. Gary Neville noted that Arsenal's desire to win is so strong that it's affecting their performance, making their legs feel heavy. The expectation and emotion surrounding the club, combined with the pressure to win their first title in 22 years, are taking a toll on the players. Arteta's restless nature was evident during the defeat to Bournemouth, where he made a triple substitution in the 53rd minute. Perhaps a calmer approach would have been more effective, especially considering Bournemouth's high line. The solution to Arsenal's current predicament lies both within and outside Arteta's control. Tactical tweaks are necessary to overcome City, but the return of injured players will also be crucial. Against Bournemouth, Arsenal were without several key players, including Jurrien Timber, Bukayo Saka, and Martin Odegaard. At least four of these players are guaranteed starters and would bring clarity to situations such as building play out from the back. Despite their injury woes, Arsenal have performed well this season, and it's essential for the team to remember what has brought them to this point. While their recent form has been disappointing, the upcoming match against Manchester City will be a defining moment in their season.