Arsenal fans, 2025 was supposed to be the year. After back-to-back second-place finishes and pushing Manchester City to the wire, the stars seemed to align for Mikel Arteta’s men.
With Jurgen Klopp stepping down at Liverpool and Pep Guardiola’s City struggling with form, the path was seemingly clear for Arsenal to finally clinch the Premier League title. But as we approach the business end of the season, the dream seems to be slipping away. So, what went wrong?
A Tale of Missed Opportunities and Bad Luck
A combination of poor transfer decisions, injuries, and controversial officiating has made the 2024-25 season a rollercoaster for the Gunners. Many believe Arsenal have been treated harshly by referees, with red cards to Declan Rice, Leandro Trossard, and MLS, along with questionable penalties like the one awarded to Brighton. While Arne Slot’s Liverpool have flourished, Arsenal have had to battle setbacks both on and off the pitch.
Did KSE Drop the Ball?
Ownership issues have once again come into the spotlight. Arsenal fans have been vocal about the need for attacking reinforcements, but Kroenke Sports & Entertainment (KSE) failed to deliver. The only attacking addition last summer was Raheem Sterling on loan, while Emile Smith Rowe and Eddie Nketiah were sold, Fabio Vieira and Reiss Nelson were loaned out, and highly-rated youngster Chido Obi Martin also left. This left Arsenal with just six senior attackers: Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, Trossard, Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus, Sterling, and 17-year-old Ethan Nwaneri.
When Saka and Jesus suffered long-term injuries, the squad depth issues became glaringly obvious. Yet, in January, no signings were made. Worse still, just days after the window closed, Martinelli picked up a long-term injury, followed by Havertz being ruled out for the rest of the season. Now, Arsenal are left with just three attackers, including a teenager who isn’t even old enough to vote.
Can Arsenal Still Turn the Season Around?
Despite the setbacks, all hope is not lost. Arsenal have displayed resilience, with key goals coming from unlikely sources such as Gabriel, Declan Rice, and Riccardo Calafiori. The defense remains intact, which will be crucial in the final stretch of the season. Ethan Nwaneri has also emerged as a potential savior, scoring seven goals in just seven starts. If he can replicate the impact of Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal, Arsenal may have a wildcard in their ranks.
The Return of Starboy
Perhaps the biggest reason for optimism is the imminent return of Saka. The young winger is expected to be fit by late March or early April, just in time for the Champions League quarterfinals and a potential Premier League title decider against Liverpool in May. If Arsenal can hang on until then, Saka’s return could be the game-changer.
Cup Competition Woes: A Worrying Trend?
While Arsenal remain in contention for the Premier League and Champions League, their cup performances continue to raise concerns. Since 2020, the club has failed to reach the final of any domestic or European competition. Their cup exits in the last five years include:
- 2021: FA Cup 4th round (Southampton), EFL Cup quarterfinals (Man City)
- 2022: FA Cup 3rd round (Nottingham Forest), EFL Cup semifinals (Liverpool)
- 2023: FA Cup 4th round (Man City), EFL Cup 3rd round (Brighton)
- 2024: FA Cup 3rd round (Liverpool), EFL Cup round of 16 (West Ham)
- 2025: FA Cup 3rd round (Man United), EFL Cup semifinals (Newcastle)
In contrast, rivals such as Liverpool, City, Chelsea, United, and even Newcastle have all reached multiple finals in this period. This raises the question: Is Arteta the right man to lead Arsenal to silverware?
Arteta: The Right Man or Time for Change?
Arteta has undoubtedly transformed Arsenal from a mid-table side into regular title challengers, but five years without a final appearance is concerning. Should the club back him further, or is it time to look elsewhere? The debate among Arsenal fans continues.
Final Thoughts: Can Arsenal Salvage the Season?
The season isn’t over yet. With Saka returning, a solid defense, and players stepping up in unexpected ways, Arsenal still have a chance to fight for both the Premier League and Champions League. However, serious questions remain about squad depth, ownership ambition, and Arteta’s ability to get the club over the line.
Arsenal fans, what do you think? Is Arteta the right man for the job? Can Arsenal still win a trophy this season?
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