Arsenal find themselves navigating a challenging period, grappling with injuries to key players and a string of underwhelming results. Combined with a perceived lack of transfer activity in attacking areas, a portion of the fanbase has grown increasingly frustrated with the team’s current trajectory. To unpack Arsenal’s title hopes, Mikel Arteta’s future, and the team’s apparent regression, we caught up with former Arsenal striker, Alan Smith.
Liverpool Winning the League Would Be a Bitter Blow
“If ever there was a season when the title seemed up for grabs, it’s this one,” says Smith. With Manchester City missing their star defensive midfielder Rodri due to an ACL injury, compounded by an ageing squad and limited recruitment (notably only Ilkay Gündogan), the reigning champions look vulnerable.
This scenario seemed ripe for Arsenal to capitalise on—but football, as Smith points out, is rarely that straightforward. Liverpool now sits six points ahead of Arsenal with a game in hand, although the race is far from over.
“It would sting—and sting badly—if Liverpool ended up winning the league,” Smith admits. “Arsenal have been on City’s heels for the past few years, next in line if City’s dominance falters. To see Liverpool leapfrog them and take the title would be incredibly hard to swallow.”
While some Arsenal fans are reluctantly coming to terms with the gap, Smith remains optimistic. “It’s not over yet. Football can be unpredictable. But it would be a heavy blow if Arsenal finished second or third, especially after being so close in recent years.”
Time Is On Arteta’s Side
Despite the setbacks, Smith sees promise in Arsenal’s future. At 42, Arteta has time to grow as a manager, and the squad boasts young talents like Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, Jurrien Timber, and Ethan Nwaneri—all under 25 years of age.
“The squad is still young, learning all the time from victories and mistakes. It’s a process,” Smith explains. “Of course, the team needs reinforcements—there’s always room to freshen things up. But the core of this team can still achieve great things.”
Arteta’s Job Is Safe, Despite the Pressure
If Arsenal finish the 2024/25 season without silverware to their name, discontent among fans could grow louder, especially after early exits from the Carabao Cup and FA Cup this term. However, Smith dismisses any speculation about Arteta’s job being at risk.
“I don’t think Arteta’s job is in danger. The owners won’t make a knee-jerk decision. Yes, there’s dissatisfaction among some fans, but the club is unlikely to react hastily,” Smith says.
Acknowledging the team’s current struggles, Smith adds, “Arsenal’s at a bit of a low point. They need a spark to reignite their season. A win or two could change the mood completely.”
Hopes for a North London Derby Reaction
Many fans argue Arsenal has got worse under Arteta’s management this season, particularly in their reliance on set pieces and the decline of their once-vibrant, free-flowing football. Smith agrees the team feels stagnant but is hopeful for a turnaround, starting with the upcoming North London derby.
“The football isn’t as enjoyable to watch right now—it looks and feels like hard work,” Smith observes. “But that can change quickly. A win against Spurs could lift the entire mood and get things moving again.”
Smith emphasises the importance of reinforcements, with reports suggesting Arsenal is close to landing long-term target Martín Zubimendi. The Spanish international, reportedly available for €60 million (£51 million) due to his release clause, could be the boost Arsenal needs.
“At the moment, things feel flat. The team isn’t as creative or dynamic as before. But the coach’s job is to find solutions, and I’m confident Arteta can do that,” says Smith.
“What Arsenal must avoid is panic buying—careless decisions can backfire, as we’ve seen with clubs like Manchester United.”
Arsenal return to action on Wednesday evening, and are priced at 2/5 on Sky Bet to beat rivals Tottenham Hotspur, in what promises to be an entertaining clash between two teams that will be desperate to pick up a much-needed three points at the Emirates Stadium.
