Welcome to The Radar, a Sky Sports column where Nick Wright combines data and opinion to explore key Premier League stories. This week, we examine Arsenal's attacking woes and a potential reunion between Xhaka and Emery.
Arsenal's defense shone in their Champions League quarter-final win, but their attack continues to struggle. With a six-point lead in the Premier League, the pressure is on Manchester City to win their upcoming match. However, Arsenal's lack of offensive solutions may hinder their chances of a positive outcome. Arteta's approach has faced intense scrutiny, with questions raised about his perceived risk aversion and over-reliance on set-pieces.
Injuries have limited Arteta's options, but the need for changes in forward areas is clear. The front three of Madueke, Martinelli, and Gyokeres has not worked, with Arsenal winning only two of their last six games when this trio starts together.
The trio's inability to retain possession has been a significant issue, with Gyokeres losing the ball 246 times in the Premier League this season. Martinelli and Madueke also rank high in terms of possession losses. In contrast, Manchester City do not have a single player with a possession loss rate over 30%.
The introduction of substitutes like Havertz, Trossard, and Jesus improved Arsenal's control, completing 89% of their passes. Arteta may be forced to make changes to his team selection, with Dowman potentially replacing the injured Madueke. Havertz could provide the outlet Arsenal lacks, having shown his effectiveness as a focal point against Sporting. His ability to win aerial duels and retain possession makes him a better target man than Gyokeres.
Manchester City are aware of Havertz's capabilities, having faced him in the Champions League final and in Arsenal's 5-1 win last season. Deploying Havertz up front could give Arsenal's attack the balance it needs, while also allowing Gyokeres to make an impact as a substitute. Arsenal will need to fall back on their defense at times, but improving their attack's technical level could be key to a positive result. Other notable stories include Sunderland's run of three wins from four in the Premier League, with Xhaka's return from injury a significant factor.
Chelsea loanee Tyrique George may be an option for Everton to exploit Liverpool's vulnerability to counter-attacks. The upcoming weekend features a range of exciting matches, including Spurs vs Brighton, Aston Villa vs Sunderland, and Manchester City vs Arsenal.