Welcome to The Radar, a column where Nick Wright combines data and opinion to explore key stories from the Premier League. This week, the focus is on Arsenal's misfiring attack and how Mikel Arteta can make changes to improve it.
Despite having a six-point lead at the top of the Premier League, Arsenal's performance against Sporting was a reminder that their attack needs improvement. Arteta's approach has been scrutinized, with some questioning whether his perceived aversion to risk has come at the cost of fluency and flair on the ball.
Injuries have limited Arteta's options, but the need for changes in forward areas became clear against Sporting. The front three of Noni Madueke, Gabriel Martinelli, and Viktor Gyokeres has not worked, and their selection leaves Arsenal lacking technical security to retain possession high up the pitch. According to Opta, Gyokeres has lost possession 246 times in the Premier League this season, with a high rate of touches ending in possession losses. Martinelli and Madueke also rank high on this list.
The introduction of substitutes like Kai Havertz, Leandro Trossard, and Gabriel Jesus improved Arsenal's control, completing 89% of their passes. Arteta may now be forced to make changes to his team selection, with Havertz potentially providing the outlet Arsenal lacked. Havertz's effectiveness as a focal point was evident against Sporting, winning more aerial duels and completing more passes than Gyokeres.
His deployment up front on Sunday could help give Arsenal's attack the balance it has lacked. Other key matches this weekend include Sunderland vs.
Aston Villa, Everton vs. Liverpool, and Nottingham Forest vs. Burnley, all available to watch on Sky Sports.