Connect with us

Arsenal

Gary Neville speaks on earlier claim about Arteta’s possible exit as fans speak up

Published

on

Gary Neville admits his previous comments suggesting Mikel Arteta should leave Arsenal were ‘strange’ after the club fans came for him.

Though, he still insists that the Spanish boss has taken the Gunners as far as he can.

Mikel Arteta failed again to secure a Champions League spot this season but has been hailed for returning the club to European football.

Speaking on The Overlap Fan Debate, Neville explained: ‘The Arsenal fans have been going for me for about three or four months, battering me, because I said if Mikel Arteta got in the Champions League he should probably leave.

Advertisement

‘It was a strange thing for me to say, I don’t know why I said it to be honest with you!

‘I think the point I was trying to make was – I actually really like Mikel Arteta, in fact he’s brilliant friends with my brother – but I feared that if he didn’t get Champions League he would be in big trouble, and I fear that could happen.

‘And I thought if he did get Champions League it would never get better.’

Fellow pundit Jamie Carragher, similarly, fears Arsenal have wasted a huge opportunity to get back into Europe’s premier club competition – something which may come back to haunt Arteta.

Advertisement

He said: ‘I wanted Arsenal to get top four because I like what Mikel Arteta has done, I actually think he’s done a really good job, I really do believe that, and I love the young players that they’ve got.

‘But Mikel Arteta right now – even though he’s done a good job – is not at the level of Conte, Tuchel, Klopp and Guardiola. And I think that opportunity in that game at Newcastle, I believe that will be a game that Arsenal fans look back on and think, “That was where it went wrong for Mikel Arteta”.

‘When you say about bringing people in and it being a building process, I get that, but Arsenal will have less money now, that top four will have more money, and I just think that was a massive opportunity with having no European football, that was a big advantage this season, they now have to play Thursday-Sunday.

‘I don’t see how Arsenal get Champions League [next season]. There’s no way at the start of next season, whoever they bring in, that I would even think Arsenal would be close to the top four. I may be proven wrong.’

Advertisement

Arsenal

Arsenal Champion League Campaign 

Published

on

Arsenal Champion League Campaign 

The current Champions League campaign of Arsenal marks a significant return to the quarterfinals after a 14-year absence. Meanwhile, they are also in contention for the Premier League title

Balancing both competitions raises concerns about potential impacts on performance. The team faces the challenge of managing the demands of each campaign effectively, aware that success in one could influence the other.

Arsenal Champion League Record

In their Champions League journey, Arsenal has reached the grand final just once, back in 2006, savoring the taste of football glory on that memorable night. They’ve made it to the semifinals once, too, putting on a show in 2009 and leaving fans excited. 

However, when it comes down to the quarterfinals, they’ve been there seven times, proving they can go toe-to-toe with Europe’s finest in 1972, 2001, 2004, 2008, 2010, and 2024. But it’s not all been smooth sailing; they’ve had their fair share of battles in the round of 16, facing the pressure nine times between 2005 and 2017. 

Advertisement

Through it all, they punched their ticket to the group stage five times, in 1992, 1999, 2000, 2002, and 2003, showing their resilience and determination to shine on the big stage of European football.

Arsenal qualified for the quarter-final for the first time in fourteen years.

Arsenal recently broke a 14-year streak by qualifying for the Champions League quarter-finals. In a tense match against FC Porto at the Emirates Stadium, Arsenal secured their spot in the next round. 

Despite Porto’s defensive strategy, Arsenal persisted with relentless attacks, eventually scoring through Leandro Trossard just before halftime. The match extended into extra time as Porto fought back, leading to a nail-biting penalty shootout. 

David Raya emerged as the hero, making two crucial saves to seal Arsenal’s quarterfinal berth.

Advertisement

Champion League Quarter-Final Draw

  • Arsenal vs Bayern Munich
  • Atletico Madrid vs Borussia Dortmund
  • Real Madrid vs Man City
  • PSG vs Barcelona

Arsenal to Face Bayern Munich in UCL Round of 8

Bayern has been the bully, scoring five goals against Arsenal in their last three matchups, and now they’re bringing back Harry Kane, the former Spurs star, to North London. 

Arsenal’s got a point to prove, though. Despite leading the Premier League and making their first quarter-final appearance in ages, they’ve always struggled against big European teams like Bayern.

Arsenal

Arsenal lost to Bayern Munich at their last meeting.

Over in another corner, Manchester City is gearing up to take on Real Madrid, and it’s a clash of titans. City are the reigning champs, but Real Madrid is the most successful team in Champions League history. 

With Pep Guardiola calling the shots for City and Real thirsty for revenge after their last defeat, it will be a showdown of epic proportions.

The match-ups aren’t just about team glory; there’s some serious talent going head-to-head. Imagine Jude Bellingham facing off against Erling Haaland and Kevin De Bruyne taking on Toni Kroos. It’s like a dream final happening early, and whoever comes out on top in these battles is setting themselves up for a shot at the trophy.

Arsenal

So, for Arsenal, it’s finally about showing they can hang out with the big boys like Bayern. And for City and Real, it’s a chance to prove who the real king of Europe is. It will be a quarter-final stage to remember in the Champions League, with the drama and excitement reaching fever pitch.

Advertisement

Conclusion

Arsenal defeated Porto to make a return to the UCL quarter-final after 14 years. They are gearing up to take on their old foes, Bayern Munich, in the Champions League quarterfinals.

Man City is set to put Real Madrid to the test as they face off at the UCL quart quarter-final; however, Arsenal and Man City are juggling the UCL with the Premier League title chase. Their performance in both competitions will shape their season, which may prove advantageous to their rival, Liverpool.

Continue Reading

Arsenal

Arsenal, Liverpool, Man City and Race for Premier League Title

Published

on

Arsenal, race for Premier League Title

Arsenal is barely leading the Premier League table with a goal difference. The duo are closely followed by Man City with 64, 64, and 63 points, respectively. 

Let’s review the last game between Liverpool and Man City, then compare the next few games of the three title contenders. You can read the recap of Arsenal’s last game against Brentford here.

Liverpool vs Man City 

Liverpool versus Man City is another enthralling episode of the long-standing rivalry between Jurgen Klopp and Guardiola. The showdown at Anfield was nothing short of a footballing epic and a true display of the strategic minds of Jurgen Klopp and Pep Guardiola. 

Liverpool vs Man City

City-Liverpool 1-1 Draw Raises Stakes

The first half witnessed City’s ascendancy as John Stones exploited a brilliantly orchestrated set-piece delivered by the maestro Kevin De Bruyne. The precision of Stones’ finish left Liverpool trailing and set the stage for a riveting encounter.

Advertisement

The narrative took a dramatic turn early in the second half when Nathan Ake’s critical error, an under-hit back pass, gave Liverpool a lifeline in the form of a penalty. 

Alexis Mac Allister calmly converted, leveling the score and compounding City’s challenges as goalkeeper Ederson exited due to an injury sustained in the penalty incident.

Liverpool’s injury-plagued lineup welcomed Mohamed Salah back from the bench, injecting energy into the home side. Luis Diaz, a constant threat in Liverpool’s attacks, faced staunch resistance from City’s solid defense and the unflappable Stefan Ortega, who stepped in for the injured Ederson.

A pivotal moment unfolded with a VAR-reviewed incident involving City’s Jeremy Doku. His challenge on Mac Allister sparked heated debates, with Klopp passionately advocating for a penalty. VAR, however, upheld the on-field decision, leaving fans and pundits divided on the contentious call.

Advertisement

Guardiola’s strategic brilliance came to the fore with a surprising substitution, replacing Kevin De Bruyne with Mateo Kovacic. The move, aiming for possession and control, paid more dividends than most foresee. Kovacic’s calm influence helped City navigate the charged atmosphere of Anfield.

The match climaxed in the dying minutes when Jeremy Doku’s strike hit the post, narrowly missing a late winner for City.

The Last Ten Games of Arsenal, Liverpool, and Manchester City

  • Arsenal

Arsenal’s red-hot form faces a pivotal test in their last ten games, including harsh clashes with Chelsea, Manchester City, Luton, Brighton, Aston Villa, Wolves, Tottenham, Bournemouth, Manchester United, and Everton. 

The Gunners, aiming for the elusive title after two decades, confront a formidable lineup in their challenging quest. The stakes have never been higher for Arteta’s squad.

  • Liverpool

Liverpool’s last ten games present a formidable challenge as they navigate a crucial period. Fixtures include Brighton, Sheffield United, Manchester United, Crystal Palace, Fulham, West Ham, Tottenham, Aston Villa, Wolves, and a yet-to-be-scheduled match against Everton. 

Klopp’s squad, aiming for a potential quadruple, must balance title aspirations with FA Cup and Europa League commitments. With key players returning and the lingering absence of Alisson, Alexander-Arnold, and Jota, the Reds face a demanding run.

Advertisement
Manchester City

Manchester City Player in training.

  • Manchester City

City’s chasing history with 63 points, eyeing a jaw-dropping fourth straight English top-flight title. Guardiola called it surviving a Liverpool “tsunami,” but they’re still in the championship hunt. 

Man City’s future games include Arsenal, Villa, Crystal Palace, and the showdown at Tottenham – the trickiest one in the last eight games. 

City’s got confidence they can reel in the leaders, especially with lighter matchups against Luton, Forest, Wolves, Fulham, and a mystery opponent, probably Brighton.

Conclusion

The premier league race is fierce, and the battle competition is showing no signs of ease any moment from now. Liverpool managed to hold down Man City last weekend. Arsenal remains at the top of the league with just a difference in goals from Liverpool. 

The next ten games of the trio show that Arsenal has the toughest battle among them three. Their next ten games consist of Chelsea, Manchester United, and fellow contender Manchester City. 

Advertisement

Arsenal have to fight harder if they are to emerge as the winner of the 2024/2025 Premier League. Liverpool seems to have it the easiest, and Man City is in between.

Continue Reading

Arsenal

EPL News 

Published

on

EPL NEWS; Arsenal

Arsenal Defeat Brentford in a tightly contested match

The game between Arsenal and Brentford had fans on the edge of their seats. However, the Gunners clinched a hard-fought 2-1 victory against The Bees, extending their impressive winning streak to eight matches. The number 28 EPL game unfolded with brilliance and unexpected twists, making it a satisfying watch for fans and stakeholders.

The opening act saw Declan Rice stepping up in the 19th minute, showcasing his attacking prowess with a perfectly timed header from a Ben White cross. Arsenal took the lead, setting the stage for what turned out to be a challenging battle against a resilient Brentford.

EPL News; Arsenal

However, just before halftime, the script took an unexpected turn. Arsenal’s usually reliable goalkeeper, Aaron Ramsdale, was at the centre of a dramatic moment. A seemingly routine back-pass turned into a calamity as Ramsdale hesitated, allowing Brentford’s Wissa to pounce and level the score at 1-1. The Emirates Stadium fell silent, and Brentford seized an opportunity gifted by an uncharacteristic error.

The second half unfolded with both teams locked in an EPL game, and Brentford’s Ivan Toney nearly stole the show with a spectacular attempt in the 55th minute. The game’s momentum swung back and forth, keeping the outcome uncertain until the final moments.

Advertisement

In the 87th minute, the decisive moment arrived. Kai Havertz, with a forceful leap, met a precise cross from Ben White with his head, sending the ball into the back of the net. Havertz’s goal secured the much-needed three points for Arsenal, propelling them to the top of the Premier League.

Reflecting on the match, Havertz acknowledged the team’s desperation for victory and spoke of the collective effort. He recognised mistakes as inherent to the game but underscored the unity within the squad.

MANCHESTER UNITED Outclass EVERTON

In a crucial showdown at Old Trafford, Manchester United snagged an essential 2-0 win against Everton, reviving their hopes for a top-four finish in the Premier League. The star of the match was Alejandro Garnacho, who played a key role by winning two penalties in the first half.

EPL news; Manchester United

Kicking off the action, James Tarkowski’s mistimed tackle on Garnacho in the 11th minute led to Manchester United being awarded their initial penalty. Bruno Fernandes confidently stepped up, securing the spot-kick and giving United an unexpected 1-0 lead.

Advertisement

Garnacho continued to shine, displaying impressive dribbling skills. In the 34th minute, his dynamic run forced Ben Godfrey into a foul inside the box, resulting in United’s second penalty. Marcus Rashford calmly converted the spot-kick, extending United’s lead to 2-0.

Despite Everton’s possession, they struggled to capitalise on opportunities, with a resilient United defence thwarting their attacks. The visitors faced further setbacks, conceding two penalties due to Garnacho’s impactful play.

The final whistle left Everton without a win in their last 11 Premier League matches, deepening their struggles near the relegation zone. Meanwhile, United closed the gap on fifth-placed Tottenham to three points and remained eight behind fourth-placed Aston Villa.

The match showcased United’s determination to secure a top-four finish, with manager Erik ten Hag expressing belief in the team’s chances. Former United defender Rio Ferdinand emphasised the need for wins and reliance on other teams dropping points for a shot at Champions League qualification.

Advertisement

Alejandro Garnacho, named Player of the Match, played a decisive role in the victory, earning both penalties with his dynamic contributions. Garnacho’s impact highlighted United’s pursuit of a Champions League spot, with a commitment to winning every game.

As Manchester United gears up for the FA Cup quarter-finals against fierce rivals Liverpool, Everton faces a three-week break before seeking their first league win of the year against Bournemouth on March 30. The lingering question revolves around whether United can sustain their push for the top four, with opinions divided on the team’s defensive vulnerabilities and consistency.

Conclusion

Arsenal continued to lead the EPL table by defeating Brentford in a close game. Aaron Ramsdale’s mistake could have cost The Gunners a precious two points. Luckily, Kai Havertz’s header saved the day.

Manchester United defeated a charitable Everton, who committed two fouls in the box during the first half of the game. Bruno Fernandez and Marcus Rashford converted the spot-kick, giving The Red Devil another home win.

Advertisement
Continue Reading

Arsenal

Arsenal Transfer News Roundup

Published

on

Arsenal Transfer

Arsenal must bolster their squad to elevate their status as serious title contenders. This entails parting ways with certain players to comply with UEFA Financial Fair Play regulations and acquire more impactful additions. 

The club plans to offload as many as six players, with Emile Smith Rowe among those on the chopping block. Meanwhile, they’re keeping tabs on talents like Viktor Gyokeres and Douglas Luiz.

Additionally, reports from a reputable journalist have refuted claims linking Arsenal to Mykhaylo Mudryk, dispelling any speculation surrounding the player’s potential transfer to the club.

Victor Gyokeres on Arsenal’s Radal

Arsenal is getting ready to play Sheffield United and is doing well in the league. They’re interested in a player named Viktor Gyokeres, who’s been scoring a lot for Sporting CP. Arsenal wants to improve their striker position because Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah need to improve. 

Advertisement

However, Gyokeres might be too expensive because of his €100 million release clause. Many clubs, including Arsenal, are keeping an eye on him. They’re also looking at Victor Osimhen from Napoli, but he’s pricey too. Arsenal wants to strengthen their team by getting new players, and they’re considering different options for the upcoming transfer window.

Arsenal Target

Gunners Renews Interest in Douglas Luiz 

Arsenal might finally have another shot at signing Douglas Luiz from Aston Villa this summer, as Villa faces financial pressures under FFP rules. Despite Arsenal’s failed attempts to secure Luiz in 2022, his remarkable improvement and goal-scoring prowess this season have reignited interest from the Gunners. 

With Villa needing to balance their spending, Luiz could be up for grabs. Especially with Thomas Partey’s uncertain future due to injuries, Luiz could be seen as a potential replacement. However, Villa is likely to demand a significant fee, and Arsenal must be cautious to comply with financial regulations. 

Additionally, Arsenal’s striker issues, highlighted by Gabriel Jesus’s injuries, might push them to pursue players like Ollie Watkins. The pursuit of Luiz reflects Arsenal’s strategic approach to bolster their squad while navigating financial constraints, illustrating the intricate nature of modern football transfers.

Advertisement

Arsenal not eyeing Mykhaylo Mudryk

The journalist Dean Jones confirms that Arsenal isn’t considering signing Mykhaylo Mudryk this summer. Despite previous admiration, Mudryk’s underwhelming performance at Chelsea has diminished Arsenal’s interest.

 Jones doubts the value of pursuing Mudryk, especially if Chelsea demands a high price. With manager Mikel Arteta aiming to strengthen the attack, Arsenal is expected to explore other options instead of pursuing Mudryk. Therefore, a transfer for Mudryk to Arsenal seems unlikely in the upcoming window.

Arsenal Target

Arsenal to Release Six Players

Arsenal faces a crucial summer as they aim to revamp their squad, primarily focusing on securing a top-tier striker. To finance this endeavor, the club plans to part ways with several players, including promising academy graduates Emile Smith Rowe and Eddie Nketiah. 

Despite his potential, Smith Rowe’s limited playing time makes him a viable candidate for departure, while Nketiah may seek more prominent roles elsewhere due to his sporadic appearances.

Advertisement

Additionally, Aaron Ramsdale, having lost his starting position, could opt for a transfer to ensure regular game time, especially with the imminent arrival of David Raya. And Kieran Tierney, Nuno Tavares, and Albert Sambi Lokonga all made it to the axe list.

The potential sales offer a significant financial boost, with the combined market value of the mentioned players reaching £115 million. This funds presents manager Mikel Arteta with the opportunity to strengthen the squad, particularly in the striker department, where reinforcements are urgently needed.

Conclusion 

So, to wrap it up, Arsenal is on a mission to amp up their squad. They’re making strategic player moves to stay within financial rules and up their game.

And by saying goodbye to some players and eyeing up new talent, they’re gearing up for a stronger team and better results in the future.

Advertisement

 

Continue Reading

Arsenal

Arsenal News, Players Rating Compared To Rivals

Published

on

Arsenal Player; Martin Odegaard

Arsenal showcased their dominance in the Premier League with a 5-0 victory over Burnley, continuing their impressive form. Martin Odegaard’s early goal set the tone, followed by Bukayo Saka’s penalty and a powerful finish. 

Leandro Trossard and Kai Havertz contributed to the rout. This win, coupled with their recent 6-0 triumph against West Ham, keeps Arsenal close to league leaders Liverpool, who recently defeated Brentford.

Reflecting on past skepticism from Wayne Bridge about Arsenal’s title chances, despite their lead in 2023, the current two-point gap behind Liverpool raises questions about Arsenal’s ability to clinch the title. 

With key Liverpool players injured, Arsenal’s main competition is Manchester City, adept at mounting comebacks from third place.

Advertisement

The crucial query remains: can Mikel Arteta’s squad maintain consistency and scoring prowess? As Manchester City lurks as a formidable threat, the outcome hinges on Arteta’s efforts and whether Arsenal can fend off their rivals to secure the coveted title.

Arsenal News

Arsenal player ratings vs Burnley

Arsenal triumphed against Burnley with standout performances. Goalkeeper David Raya, rated 7, had little to do but showcased excellent passing. 

Playing right back, Ben White earned an 8 for solid defense and composure. William Saliba, rated 7, had a brief lapse but was otherwise solid. Gabriel Magalhaes impressed with an 8, excelling in duels and distributing well. 

Jakub Kiwior silenced critics with an eight on the left side. Declan Rice dominated with a 9, setting up Odegaard’s goal. Odegaard and Saka both received a 9, showcasing creativity and finishing. Kai Havertz, rated 8, posed problems for Burnley’s defense. 

Advertisement

Trossard got an 8 for link-up play, and Martinelli, with a 7, assisted Odegaard and displayed sharpness. Overall, Arsenal showed a cohesive and impactful team performance in their victory.

Arsenal Premier League fixtures compared to their Rivals

Arsenal faces a crucial stretch with their next five fixtures, including clashes against Newcastle United and Sheffield United. 

While the Magpies present a tricky challenge, matches against teams like Sheffield United and Brentford are must-win for a serious title contender. The impending London derby against Chelsea and an away game against Manchester City could be pivotal for Arsenal’s title aspirations.

Liverpool, on the other hand, has a challenging run ahead. After Luton Town. They face strict tests against Nottingham Forest, Manchester City, Everton, Brighton, and Hove Albion. The clash with City holds particular significance and could affect the title race.

Advertisement

Meanwhile, Manchester City’s next five fixtures feature encounters with Brentford, AFC Bournemouth, Manchester United, Liverpool, Brighton, and Hove Albion. The upcoming clash against Liverpool stands out as a critical fixture, and the results of these matches could profoundly impact their title pursuit.

The next few weeks will be pivotal for all three teams, with each fixture carrying significant weight in the tightly contested Premier League title race.

Conclusion 

Arsenal’s recent form reflects determination and strategic prowess. Key players have shone, setting the stage for crucial upcoming fixtures against Newcastle United, Chelsea, and Manchester City. 

As Arsenal faces these challenges, fans’ anticipation for success and potential silverware remains high. The unpredictable nature of football continues to shape their journey, creating a compelling narrative in the ongoing season.

Advertisement
Continue Reading

Arsenal

EPL Transfer Update

Published

on

EPL Transfer Update

EPL transfer update covers news from Man United, Arsenal, and Liverpool. Manchester United are going after Dan Ashworth of Newcastle United. Old Trafford could be Matthijs de Ligt’s new home, as he’s not enjoying his stay at Bayern Munich.

Arsenal confirmed their interest in Kylian Mbappe, and four stars could leave Liverpool at the end of this summer.

Dan Ashworth Under Man United Radial

Manchester United is ready to reach deep into its pockets as they’re reportedly ready to dish out a hefty seven-figure sum to swipe Dan Ashworth from Newcastle. 

Ashworth, the maestro behind Newcastle’s sporting scene since 2022, boasts a solid track record with gigs at Brighton and West Brom. He’s been pulling strings at St James’ Park, making moves like bringing in the record-breaking Alexander Isak.

Advertisement

Back in November, Ashworth was all love for the north-east, saying, “I’m really happy. It’s a brilliant city, club, and project.” But now, the lure of the big bucks might be swaying his stance.

Mikel Arteta confirms Arsenal’s interest in Kylian Mbappe 

Mikel Arteta just spilled the beans – Arsenal is eyeing Kylian Mbappe! The PSG superstar has dropped the bombshell that he’ll leave as a free agent after the 23/24 season. Real Madrid and Liverpool were in the mix before, but now Arsenal is throwing its hat in the ring.

Talking ahead of the Burnley match, Arteta admitted they’re in the conversation for a player of Mbappe’s caliber. But he hinted it’s a bit complicated, saying, “It looks differently.”

EPL Transfer Update

Kylian Mbappe

What’s intriguing is Mbappe’s nod to Arsenal, possibly due to the influence of French legend Thierry Henry‘s legacy. The Independent reports that Mbappe sees Arsenal as a good fit, appreciating the history and legends, as a game-changer in his career plan.

While Liverpool seemed like a strong contender last year, concrete offers still needed to materialize. Arsenal, with its historical appeal, is stepping up. The rumor mill hints at a Madrid move, but the plot thickens. The summer transfer saga just got more exciting – will Mbappe choose Arsenal’s legacy over others? Time will tell!

Advertisement

Matthijs de Ligt hands Man Utd transfer boost with bombshell Bayern Munich admission

Bayern Munich might not be his happy place, and Manchester United is on standby. He jumped on the Bayern train in 2022, but lately, Tuchel prefers other defenders, leaving De Ligt warming the bench.

After a rough 3-0 loss to Bayer Leverkusen, De Ligt’s not hiding his frustration. When asked if he was fit, he casually dropped a “Top fit” with a side of attitude.

Tuchel had earlier vouched for De Ligt staying put, but reality check – he’s the fourth wheel in defense. Manchester United is probably raising an eyebrow or two, considering a potential reunion with Erik ten Hag eyeing summer upgrades.

Four Players might leave Liverpool this Summer. 

Now, on to Liverpool – things are getting interesting. Rumor has it that Mo Salah, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and others (Joel Matip, Thiago, Cody Gakpo, and Konstantinos Tsimikas) are eyeing the exit door this summer. 

Advertisement
EPL Transfer Update

Mo Salah and Alexander Arnold

Klopp’s departure is the root cause of this, as the Reds are in for a significant overhaul. New philosophy, new faces, and even the so-called “untouchables” might not be spared from the chop. Liverpool’s gearing up for a seismic shift, both on and off the pitch.

Conclusion

Arsenal’s pursuit of Mbappe, influenced by Thierry Henry’s legacy, promises a summer saga. Ashworth’s seven-figure compensation dance with Manchester United unveils the intricacies of managerial moves. 

De Ligt’s time at Bayern could end soon, hinting at a possible Manchester United reunion. Lastly, four players might exit Liverpool following Jurgen Klopp’s departure.

As these tales unfold, the football world braces for a summer filled with suspense, negotiations, and the anticipation of pivotal player and managerial shifts.

Advertisement
Continue Reading

Arsenal

Arsenal destroys West Ham

Published

on

Arsenal
And are now going after the title with full force.

Arsenal’s solid 6-0 win against West Ham wasn’t just about points; it spoke volumes about their title hopes. Closing in at two points behind leaders Liverpool, the Gunners showcased a commendable performance at the London Stadium

Despite the cloud of two prior losses to West Ham this season, Arsenal stood tall. William Saliba‘s header from Declan Rice’s corner set the stage, and Bukayo Saka calmly converted a penalty, making up for earlier misses. 

Gabriel celebrated his 150th appearance with a solid header, and Leandro Trossard added a smooth fourth before halftime. The second half continued the dominance, with Saka scoring again and Rice contributing a noteworthy 25-yard curler without celebrations against his former club. 

Arsenal’s perfect 2024 league record, winning all four matches, places them just two points behind Liverpool, trailing Manchester City on goals scored. 

Advertisement

Meanwhile, West Ham faces a challenging winless streak of five league outings since the new year. In the upcoming matches, Arsenal takes on Burnley, while West Ham aims to reclaim lost glory against Nottingham Forest.

Arsenal for EPL TITLE 

Arsenal’s recent triumph, fueled by a heartfelt win against Liverpool, brings warmth to their EPL title quest; after overcoming the past challenges, their confidence eases scoring worries. 

In this early-season stretch, Arsenal is emerging as a sincere contender. The anticipation is palpable; fans share excitement and a genuine emotional connection to each victorious moment.

Arsenal

Arsenal’s Next Matches

Arsenal has a challenging Premier League lineup. They kick off against Burnley on Saturday, February 17, and face Newcastle on Saturday, February 24. 

Advertisement

Moving into March, it’s Sheffield United on Monday, March 4th, Brentford on Saturday, March 9th, and Chelsea on Saturday, March 16th. 

March closes with a match against Manchester City on Sunday, March 31st. Brace yourself for an exciting football period as Arsenal takes on these upcoming challenges.

Records Associated with The Victory

  • Declan Rice’s comeback to the London Stadium with Arsenal wasn’t the smoothest, recalling a tough outing in November as a substitute during a 3-1 Carabao Cup loss.
  • In the Premier League, Rice stepped up, owning the midfield with two crucial assists and a spectacular goal.
  • His decision not to celebrate the goal showcased a genuine nod to the West Ham fans he once played for.
  • Arsenal’s recent win against West Ham is more than a triumph; it’s the team’s largest-ever Premier League away victory.
  • Surpassing milestones at Goodison Park in 2009 and against Middlesbrough in 1999, this victory is etched in history.
  • Sharing the club’s record for the biggest margin of victory away, it’s tied with iconic 7-1 wins in the 1930s.
  • While not hitting the heights of the UEFA Cup Winners Cup against Standard Liege in 1993 (7-0), this win is the joint-biggest London derby triumph.
  • It also marks West Ham’s joint-heaviest home defeat in league history, harkening back to a loss in 1963.

Individual Milestones 

  • Saka reached his 50th goal and a century of goals and assists, a testament to his evolving prowess.
  • In his 150th appearance, Gabriel notched his 14th goal, securing the second spot among the division’s top-scoring defenders.
  • Trossard’s fourth goal in the match didn’t just contribute to the victory; it brought Arsenal’s total goals to a staggering 8,000, weaving another chapter in the club’s rich history.

Conclusion 

Arsenal’s win against West Ham was insane—their biggest-ever away victory in the Premier League! Saka nailed his 50th goal, and Gabriel scored on his 150th appearance. 

The defeat is West Ham’s worst home defeat since ’63. Arsenal’s next five matches have much to tell us about their EPL fate this season.

Advertisement
Continue Reading

Arsenal

VAR In English Premier League

Published

on

VAR in the EPL

Let’s dive into VAR’s game-changing world and how it flips the script in English football. From tweaking red card stats to shaking up how matches unfold, we’re unraveling the VAR saga. Is it a hero or a troublemaker? 

Join us for a quick tour through the VAR rollercoaster, and let’s figure out if it’s giving our beloved sport a makeover or just stirring up the pitch!

VAR and EPL

The 2023/24 Premier League is turning into a real VAR soap opera, and Howard Webb’s apologies are practically a regular feature now.

VAR, supposed to be a ref’s sidekick, is more like that friend who always brings drama. Aston Villa’s been on the receiving end, losing out on potential wins, and Liverpool’s left scratching their heads too.

Advertisement

What is Manchester United’s journey like? It’s been impressive, as they’ve been denied penalties, among other things. Brighton is another unlucky victim. The Seagulls felt the pain, too, with goals canceled and penalties turned over. It’s chaos, driving both teams and fans crazy.

VAR

VAR—the Video Assistant Referee—started with good intentions, boosting ref decisions from 82% to 96%. Sounds great, but here’s the catch: complaints about VAR taking its sweet time and making too many checks. Fans and experts are grumbling, saying it’s slowing the game down and killing the vibe of goal celebrations.

While Premier League bigwigs claim most fans are okay with VAR, it’s stirring up trouble for every club, with some taking a harder hit. The burning question is: Is VAR truly assisting refs, or is it draining the joy out of the beautiful game?

VAR on Red Cards and Penalty 

VAR has shaken things up regarding red cards in the Premier League. According to Spreadex.com, there’s been a noticeable drop of 5.8% in the number of red cards since VAR joined the party. 

Advertisement

The 2022–23 season hit a record low with just 17 straight Reds Cards – the lowest in Premier League history. What’s intriguing is that three red cards got overturned, and six were handed out after VAR stepped in during the same season.

We’ve seen nine red cards in the 2023–24 season, but we’re still determining how many got the VAR treatment. VAR is playing a role in bringing down the total number of red cards in the Premier League. It’s like this tech genie is waving its wand and changing the whole vibe of how cards are dished out.

Shifting to penalties, the introduction of VAR has seen a surge in awards. Before VAR, the average number of penalties per season stood at 95, as reported by Sportsgazette

With VAR in play, this average has risen to 104.26 per season. Furthermore, the data reveals that approximately 21.5% of penalties are awarded with VAR. Using VAR has resulted in a significant uptick in penalty decisions in the Premier League.

Advertisement

Conclusion

VAR in the EPL and, by extension, in football is like a mixed bag of surprises. Studies show better decisions, jumping from 82% to 94%. Fewer ref blunders and a slightly tamer red card count—sounds good, right? But hold up; the drama’s not over.

There are still lingering debates about handballs and offsides, those never-ending VAR reviews, and the constant interruptions we all hate.

And here’s the kicker: more penalties and longer matches. Everyone’s arguing if VAR’s a game-changer or just a headache. Fans and pundits are split. The real MVP move? Fix the tech, talk better, and stick to the rules. That’s the VAR playbook, which is still a work in progress. 

 

Advertisement
Continue Reading

Trending