Arsenal vs. Sheffield United: Premier League Test for Unbeaten Gunners

 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.

Gabriel Jesus Masterclass Lifts Arsenal to 2-1 Triumph Over Sevilla

 Gabriel Jesus delivered a brilliant, Champions League-worthy performance to lead Arsenal to an impressive 2-1 victory over Sevilla on the road, as Arsenal sought a vital result to keep their hopes alive in Group B.

Following their disappointing 2-1 loss to Lens on matchday two, where Jesus scored Arsenal's only goal, they were in a precarious position in the group standings. In this crucial match, Jesus was instrumental, starting by setting up Gabriel Martinelli for an early chance, although Sevilla's goalkeeper Orjan Nyland made an important save.

However, Martinelli made no mistake during the fourth minute of first-half stoppage time, executing a perfect Cruyff turn and taking Jesus's beautifully weighted pass to coolly round Nyland and score, breaking the deadlock against the Europa League titleholders.

Early in the second half, Jesus, the provider, turned into the goalscorer. He maneuvered skillfully around Jesus Navas and produced a sublime finish from a tight angle, securing what would be the match-winning goal.

Sevilla seemed vulnerable and on the verge of a heavy defeat, but Nemanja Gudelj's header from Ivan Rakitic's corner before the hour put them back in the game. This set the stage for some nervy moments for Arsenal, particularly involving goalkeeper David Raya. However, they managed to hold on, claiming the top spot in the group with six points. The sight of Jesus leaving the field with an injury late in the game cast a shadow over Arsenal's triumph, especially since Eddie Nketiah couldn't replicate his outstanding hold-up play when Sevilla pushed for an equalizer.

Looking ahead, a fit and in-form Jesus will be crucial to Arsenal's chances of a deep run in the competition. Despite being a relatively young side in their first Champions League campaign, Jesus's experience and performance have been exceptional. He has now scored three goals in as many games and his contributions in Seville were nothing short of top-class.

Arteta praised Jesus, saying, "You need magic moments in big games and big players to step in and create those moments. Today he has done something special."

Additionally, Takehiro Tomiyasu, who replaced Oleksandr Zinchenko at halftime, proved to be an excellent tactical choice. He played a versatile role in both attack and defense, contributing to Arsenal's early attacks and making crucial defensive interventions. His performance highlighted Arteta's faith in his abilities.

However, the jury remains out on Arsenal's goalkeeper, David Raya, as questions surround Arteta's decision to elevate him to the starting position, especially with Aaron Ramsdale as an alternative. Raya's performance can be erratic, with moments of brilliance mixed with occasional errors, such as misjudging a late cross. Arsenal's defense, with standout performances from center-back William Saliba and Declan Rice, was key in securing the win, although it felt like they had to overcome Raya's uncertainties rather than rely on him.

Champions League Clash: Arsenal Seeks Redemption Against Sevilla

 Arsenal's Unbeaten Premier League Streak Preserved, but Champions League Hurdles Await

Arsenal managed to maintain their unbeaten start to the Premier League season with a hard-fought 2-2 draw against Chelsea, yet their return to the UEFA Champions League has been anything but smooth sailing. After a surprising defeat at Lens during Matchday 2, Mikel Arteta's squad is in need of a positive result as they prepare to face Sevilla on Tuesday.

Late heroics from Declan Rice and Leandro Trossard allowed Arsenal to recover from a two-goal deficit at Stamford Bridge. They have impressively lost just one of their 13 games across all competitions in the 2023-24 season, with that single defeat occurring in Europe three weeks ago.

Gabriel Jesus had fired Arsenal ahead during their trip to northern France, but fine finishes from Adrien Thomasson and Elye Wahi turned the tables, putting Lens at the top of Group B. Arsenal currently occupies the second position with three points earned by defeating PSV 4-0 on Matchday 1.

The significance of Arteta's return to his native Spain cannot be overstated, although history isn't on Arsenal's side. They have managed just one victory in their previous 17 away matches against Spanish teams, with three draws and 11 defeats. These victories were against Celta Vigo in February 2004 (3-2), Real Madrid in February 2006 (1-0), and Valencia in May 2019 (4-2).

Arteta is still pursuing his first win against Spanish opponents as a coach. In his only previous return to his homeland, Arsenal lost 2-1 at Villarreal in the 2020-21 UEFA Europa League semi-finals, with a goalless draw in the home leg leading to their elimination.

Arteta faces a decision regarding the only Spanish player in his squad, as David Raya's poor positioning allowed Mykhailo Mudryk to score from a tight angle. Aaron Ramsdale, who missed the previous game due to the birth of his child, could make his Champions League debut.

Arsenal will look to striker Gabriel Jesus to continue his hot streak in the Champions League, having scored against PSV and Lens. He could become just the second player to score in his first three Champions League appearances for Arsenal, following Marouane Chamakh's feat in the 2010-11 season.

Jesus is likely to be supported by Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka. Saka, who returned from injury to assist in Arsenal's equalizer against Chelsea, has been involved in 11 goals in all competitions this season (five goals, six assists), with one goal and two assists coming in the Champions League.

Sevilla, the reigning Europa League champions, have made a managerial change since their 2-2 draw with PSV on Matchday 2. They led twice in that game through goals from Nemanja Gudelj and En-Nesyri but were denied by Jordan Teze's stoppage-time equalizer, leaving them with two points from two matches.

Five days after that draw, José Luis Mendilibar was dismissed as Sevilla continued to struggle in La Liga. Diego Alonso, his replacement, oversaw a 1-1 draw against Real Madrid in his first game in charge, with Sevilla taking the lead through David Alaba's own goal before Dani Carvajal leveled for Real Madrid.

Sergio Ramos, facing his former club, came close to a dramatic winner late in the match. The 37-year-old is expected to continue in the experienced Sevilla backline, alongside Gudelj, Marcos Acuña, and Jesús Navas. Sevilla's starting lineups in the Champions League this season have had an average age of 30 years and 343 days, making them the oldest team in the tournament.

Striker En-Nesyri, on the other hand, is on the verge of entering the Sevilla record books. With nine goals in 16 Champions League appearances, he is just one goal away from equaling Wissam Ben Yedder's club-record tally of 10 strikes in the competition.

Sevilla and Arsenal have met only twice before, both times in the 2007-08 Champions League group stages. Arsenal won 3-0 at the Emirates Stadium on Matchday 1, but Sevilla emerged victorious with a 3-1 scoreline in their only prior encounter at the Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán.

While Arsenal has struggled in Spain, Sevilla has generally performed well against English teams in Andalusia, losing only three of their previous 10 home matches against English clubs in UEFA competitions, with five wins and two draws. One of the most recent instances was their 3-0 victory over Manchester United in last season's Europa League quarter-finals.

Arsenal has lost their last two Champions League away matches, with a six-year gap between them. Before the Lens defeat this month, they suffered a 5-1 thrashing at the hands of Bayern Munich in February 2017. Their last run of three consecutive away losses in the competition occurred in the 2010-11 season, with the third defeat being against La Liga opponents as they were defeated 3-1 by Pep Guardiola's Barcelona.

Sevilla has won just one of their last seven games across all competitions, with that victory coming against Almería with a 5-1 scoreline in La Liga last month. However, they've also only lost once during this period, to Barcelona, and have managed five draws. They are on an unbeaten streak in their last five home games, with two wins and three draws.

Arsenal Battles Back for a Draw in Rain-Soaked Showdown with Chelsea

 

Arsenal managed to salvage a 2-2 draw against Chelsea after being 2-0 down in a match that took place on a wet, less-than-ideal evening in West London. It wasn't the Gunners' best performance, and their struggles this season continue to be evident. While the first half showed some competence, Chelsea dominated the later part of the match, and the praises from the commentators began to fade.

From where I'm sitting, this result is disappointing for Arsenal. While it's positive that they came back from a 2-0 deficit to earn a point, it's hard to ignore that it feels like two points dropped against a rather average opponent. Mikel Arteta's decision to start Jorginho in midfield and push Declan Rice forward might not have been the best choice, given Jorginho's struggles against energetic teams like Chelsea.

Arsenal's performance in the first 60 minutes was subpar, but their fortune turned when Robert Sanchez made a critical error, allowing Declan Rice to capitalize and score from a considerable distance.

The second Arsenal goal was a thing of beauty. Kai Havertz, who made an impact coming off the bench, set up Bukayo Saka perfectly. Saka's cross to the back post was flawless, and Leandro Trossard executed it excellently.

Once again, Mikel Arteta's substitutions made a significant difference. Takehiro Tomiyasu solidified the defense, which had looked shaky in the first half. Trossard scored, Havertz brought physicality and control, Emile Smith Rowe contributed to the play, and Eddie Nketiah added energy to the team.

On the issue of refereeing, Arsenal faced some tough calls. Marc Cucurella seemed to target Bukayo Saka with rough play. Arsenal should have been awarded a penalty when Robert Sanchez collided with Gabriel Jesus, similar to a previous incident that was apologized for.

Despite these challenges, Arsenal remains unbeaten in the Premier League. However, there's a notable issue in their attack. Their forward play lacks fluidity, and chances are scarce. While the attacking trio started their first match of the season together, the team needs to improve its offensive performance.

Sometimes, the points don't come in the most elegant way, but Arsenal is managing to stay competitive in the league, even when they're not at their best. The next challenge awaits as they continue to strive for improvement.

💬 "In the end, we got a point after a really difficult result and the way it started."

The boss was pleased by our never-give-up attitude following today's 2-2 draw with Chelsea 👇

— Arsenal (@Arsenal) October 21, 2023

Kovacic's Challenge: The VAR Decision that Stirred Controversy in the Premier League

 

Former Premier League referee and PGMOL chief, Howard Webb, expressed his view that Matteo Kovacic was "extremely fortunate" to escape a red card during Manchester City's loss to Arsenal. This incident occurred when Gabriel Martinelli came off the bench to secure a late victory at Emirates Stadium. Kovacic had been booked for a challenge on Arsenal's Martin Odegaard in the first half, and the video assistant referee (VAR) reviewed the foul but did not recommend a red card, as it wasn't deemed a "clear and obvious error" by the on-field referee Michael Oliver.

Webb, in an episode of 'Match Officials Mic'd: Up,' explained why Kovacic was fortunate to remain on the field, noting that the decision was inconsistent with a similar red card given to Chelsea's Malo Gusto during their loss at Aston Villa. Webb emphasized the importance of consistency in refereeing, acknowledging that each situation might have unique nuances.

Kovacic made another challenge on Declan Rice later in the first half but avoided a second booking. Webb suggested that Kovacic could have been dismissed in a game where both teams had vied for the title, but Oliver chose not to "have a negative impact on the game by overreacting."

The program also reviewed the disallowed goal by Luis Diaz in Liverpool's match against Tottenham Hotspur, wrongly ruled offside. Webb revealed that referee Simon Hooper was unaware of the error until after the match, and explained that there are limitations in intervening once a game has restarted after an error is recognized.

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Arsenal Suffers First Defeat of the Season as Lens Stages Sensational Comeback

RC Lens staged a remarkable comeback that left Arsenal stunned in the Champions League. Arsenal suffered their first defeat of the season as Lens secured a thrilling 2-1 victory in France, with Elye Wahi's superb second-half strike being the decisive blow.

Gabriel Jesus provided Arsenal with an ideal start, opening the scoring in the 14th minute, momentarily silencing the Stade Bollaert crowd. However, Adrien Thomasson quickly leveled the score for last season's Ligue 1 runners-up, and Arsenal had to deal with the loss of Bukayo Saka, who limped off before half-time.

Elye Wahi, Lens' 20-year-old striker and club-record signing, became the hero as he netted the winning goal in the 69th minute. Lens held on for a historic victory, leaving their manager Franck Haise extremely proud.

This result propelled Lens to the top of Champions League Group B with four points, surpassing Mikel Arteta's Arsenal.

Arteta, while dismissing travel disruptions as an excuse, lamented Saka's injury, explaining that it was a muscular issue that forced the young player off the field. Arsenal's trip to France had already been plagued by a nearly five-hour flight delay due to adverse weather.

Despite Arsenal's status as clear favorites, Lens made their first appearance in Europe's elite club competition in over two decades. This added significance to their first European home game, especially against a team Lens famously defeated in the 1998 Champions League.

Arsene Wenger's Arsenal had been favorites in their previous meeting with Lens, and Arteta's team arrived in northern France undefeated this season. Arsenal had showcased their potential with a 4-0 victory over PSV Eindhoven, while Lens drew 1-1 against Sevilla.

Saka, despite his injury scare, played a crucial role in Arsenal taking an early lead. His swift response to a loose ball allowed Jesus to finish with clinical precision. However, Lens capitalized on an Arsenal mistake to draw level, with Thomasson scoring a spectacular goal.

Lens' remarkable moments in the second half, including a stunning save by Brice Samba and Wahi's first-time strike, sealed their victory. Arsenal mounted a late assault, but Lens' resolute defense, exemplified by Jonathan Gradit's heroic block, ensured their triumph. 

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Brentford vs Arsenal Preview: Predictions, Team News & Lineups

Arsenal's focus turns to the Carabao Cup this midweek as they kick off their campaign with a challenging fixture against Brentford.

While Arsenal had a comfortable outing in West London last season, the Bees have proven to be a formidable opponent for the 'Big Six' since entering the Premier League in 2020.

The Carabao Cup hasn't been a source of great success for Arsenal, having won it just twice, with only one final appearance in the last 12 editions. In last year’s third round, Mikel Arteta's team suffered a 3-1 defeat to Brighton at the Emirates.

Considering the somewhat gloomy atmosphere surrounding the club after their disappointing derby performance, Wednesday's match takes on added significance in terms of lifting morale. It was just last week that fans were celebrating a resounding victory in Arsenal's return to Champions League action.

Football is an unpredictable game, and Arteta would greatly benefit from a cup win against Brentford, especially with a challenging trip to Bournemouth on the horizon this Saturday.

Brentford Team News

The hosts have faced a couple of injury setbacks in recent weeks, with star wing-back Rico Henry ruled out for the rest of the season. Kevin Schade is also expected to be sidelined after picking up an injury before Saturday's defeat to Everton.

Thomas Frank still has to contend with the suspension of Ivan Toney, along with injuries to Shandon Baptiste, Ben Mee, Mikkel Damsgaard, and Josh Dasilva, all of whom are unavailable for Wednesday's match.

Arsenal Team News

Declan Rice added to an already extensive injury list over the weekend when back discomfort forced him to be substituted at halftime during Sunday's derby. While Rice isn't expected to be out for long, he will miss Wednesday's cup tie.

Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard are hopeful of returning this weekend, but Thomas Partey and Jurrien Timber remain sidelined.

Bukayo Saka is likely to be rested, with Arteta offering opportunities to some of his fringe players and promising academy talents.

Predicted Lineup for Arsenal: Ramsdale; Cedric, Saliba, Kiwior, Tomiyasu; Jorginho, Vieira, Havertz; Nelson, Jesus, Smith Rowe.

Match Prediction

Arsenal's fringe players have struggled when given the chance to shine recently, and they will face a resolute and disciplined Brentford side on Wednesday.

This match may not produce a cup classic, with the outcome likely to be decided by narrow margins. However, considering Brentford's absence of several key players and Arsenal's eagerness to return to the win column, it's anticipated that the Gunners will provide the decisive moment in the attacking third.

Prediction: Brentford 1-2Arsenal

Arsenal and Tottenham Battle to a 2-2 Stalemate in North London Derby

 Bukayo Saka and Heung-Min Son Shine in Thrilling 2-2 North London Derby

In an electrifying North London derby, Arsenal and Tottenham battled to a dramatic 2-2 draw, with Bukayo Saka and Heung-Min Son taking center stage.

The action-packed encounter began with Cristian Romero inadvertently diverting Saka's shot into his own net, giving Arsenal an early advantage. However, Son's equalizer, just three minutes before halftime and following a fantastic save by David Raya against Brennan Johnson, brought Spurs back into contention.

The second half continued the rollercoaster ride as Romero's handball, reminiscent of an incident against Man Utd, allowed Saka to restore Arsenal's lead from the penalty spot. Spurs wasted no time in responding, with Jorginho's costly mistake leading to James Maddison setting up Son for his second goal of the match.

Both teams had opportunities to secure a late victory, with Kai Havertz and Saka coming close for Arsenal, while Richarlison's deflected effort narrowly missed the target in the 10th minute of stoppage time.

The draw leaves both sides trailing Manchester City by four points after six games, raising questions about their early-season title aspirations.

The North London derby lived up to its billing, with Son having an early strike disallowed and Gabriel Jesus squandering a golden opportunity for Arsenal. Saka consistently posed a threat for Arsenal, drawing a yellow card from Spurs' Destiny Udogie and creating chances for his teammates.

Arsenal broke the deadlock as Saka's shot was deflected into the net by Romero. However, Spurs regained their rhythm, with Raya making crucial saves to deny Johnson and Maddison. Son managed to level the score for Spurs just before halftime.

The second half commenced with a penalty for Arsenal, confidently converted by Saka, but Spurs quickly equalized again through Son. Both teams struggled to create clear-cut chances in the later stages of the match.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta refrained from criticizing substitute Jorginho for his costly error, emphasizing the team's support for him. He acknowledged that the second goal affected Arsenal emotionally and praised Tottenham for their competitive performance.

Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou praised Son's leadership and performance, as well as the contributions of Romero, Maddison, and Bissouma. He highlighted the team's character, belief, and perseverance in the face of challenges.

The North London derby showcased the intensity and competitiveness of both teams, leaving fans eagerly anticipating future clashes between these arch-rivals.

Player ratings

Arsenal

GK: David Raya (6)

RB: Ben White (6)

CB: William Saliba (6.5)

CB: Gabriel (6)

LB: Oleksandr Zinchenko (6.5)

CM: Declan Rice (6)

CM: Fabio Vieira (5)

CM: Martin Odegaard (6.5)

RW: Buakyo Saka (7.5)

ST: Eddie Nketiah (6)

LW: Gabriel Jesus (6.5)

Substitutes

Jorginho (2)

Kai Havertz (2)

Reiss Nelson (4)

Emile Smith Rowe (N/A)

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