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

Welcome to The Radar, a Sky Sports column that delves into key stories from the Premier League using data and expert opinion. This week, we examine Arsenal's issues in attack and how Mikel Arteta can address them. Despite having a six-point lead in the Premier League, Arsenal's attack has been underperforming, and their recent performance against Sporting highlighted the need for improvement. Arteta's approach has been scrutinized, with questions raised about his perceived aversion to risk and the team's reliance on set-pieces and defense. Injuries have limited Arteta's options, but the need for changes in forward areas is clear. The current front three of Noni Madueke, Gabriel Martinelli, and Viktor Gyokeres has not been effective, and their selection leaves Arsenal struggling to retain possession high up the pitch. Data shows that Gyokeres, in particular, has a high rate of losing possession, and the team's ball retention issues are a significant concern. The introduction of substitutes like Kai Havertz, Leandro Trossard, and Gabriel Jesus improved Arsenal's control in the game against Sporting, and Havertz's technical quality could be crucial in providing an outlet for the team. With Manchester City's pressing structure likely to pose a challenge, Arteta may need to rethink his team selection, and Havertz's effectiveness as a focal point could be key to unlocking Arsenal's attack. The upcoming match against Manchester City will be a significant test for Arsenal, and Arteta's ability to adapt and find solutions to their attacking woes will be crucial in determining the outcome.