What's Behind Arsenal's Struggling Attack and How Can Arteta Revamp It?

Welcome to The Radar, a Sky Sports column where Nick Wright uses data and opinion to shed light on key Premier League stories. This week, we examine Arsenal's attacking woes and potential solutions. Arsenal's Champions League quarter-final win over Sporting allowed them to rely on their defense, but their attack continues to underperform. Mikel Arteta may not need to make changes, given their six-point Premier League lead, but against a quality opponent like Manchester City, finding offensive solutions is crucial. Arteta's approach has been scrutinized, with some arguing that his risk-averse strategy has come at the cost of fluency and flair. Injuries have limited Arteta's options, with Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard doubtful for the Manchester City game. The front three of Noni Madueke, Gabriel Martinelli, and Viktor Gyokeres has not worked, with Arsenal winning only two of their last six games together. The trio struggles to retain possession, with Gyokeres losing the ball 43.5% of the time, the second-highest rate in the Premier League. Substitutions changed the game against Sporting, with players like Kai Havertz and Leandro Trossard bringing technical quality and control. Arteta may be forced to start Havertz against Manchester City, given his effectiveness as a focal point and his ability to win aerial duels and retain possession. Havertz's deployment up front could give Arsenal's attack the balance it lacks, while Gyokeres could make an impact as a substitute. Arsenal will need to raise their technical level to emerge with a positive result against Manchester City.