Arsenal Faces Sheffield United in a Premier League Test
Arsenal's unbeaten start to the Premier League season faces another challenge this Saturday as they welcome Sheffield United to the Emirates Stadium.
Sitting third in the league table, Arsenal trails leaders Tottenham by just two points, making this an important match for the Gunners. Their defense has been solid, conceding only eight goals this season. However, it's worth noting that six of those goals were at the Emirates. The game against Sheffield United presents an opportunity for Arsenal to secure back-to-back home clean sheets in the league, which they haven't achieved since December 2021.
On the other hand, Sheffield United has had a tough return to the Premier League, with nine games played and no wins. Their only point so far came from a possible 27. The Blades are struggling at the bottom of the Premier League. An upset win against Arsenal could bring them within one point of safety, given the struggles of other teams in similar positions.
Historically, Sheffield United hasn't fared well in London, having lost their last nine visits to the capital in the top flight. Arsenal is also strong against promoted sides, particularly at home, where they have been unbeaten in 36 Premier League meetings with newly promoted teams.
While Sheffield United has been competitive in most games, they've suffered in the goal difference department, largely due to an 8-0 loss to Newcastle. However, they have a unique record of scoring equalizing goals in multiple games this season. Unfortunately, they've often followed this up with defeats.
Arsenal recently won 2-1 against Sevilla in the Champions League but at the cost of Gabriel Jesus's injury coupled with Thomas partey who’s also out of the game through a thigh injury sustained during training as stated by Mikel Arteta during his press conference.. Sheffield United could see the return of some key players, but they have significant issues in the center-back position with multiple injuries.
In terms of head-to-head statistics, Arsenal has lost just two of their last 19 league games against Sheffield United. The Gunners have been dominant in home meetings with the Blades, last losing at home in August 1971.
Bukayo Saka has been in superb form for Arsenal, scoring or assisting in seven of his eight Premier League appearances this season. However, Sheffield United has struggled away from home, failing to secure any points on the road this season.
Arsenal has shown their late-game prowess this season, with no team in the Premier League scoring more goals in the final 15 minutes of matches than Arsenal. This could be a crucial factor against Sheffield United, who have conceded the most goals in this period.
Mikel Arteta will aim for a strong start from kick-off, as Arsenal has yet to score in the opening 15 minutes of a game this season, unlike the previous campaign when they were prolific in this regard.
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