Arsenal’s Premier League title ambitions took a major hit following their 1-1 draw with Manchester United at Old Trafford.
The result leaves the Gunners 15 points behind league leaders Liverpool, with concerns now shifting to securing a top-four finish rather than chasing the title.
Sky Sports pundits Roy Keane, Paul Merson, and Jamie Redknapp weighed in on Arsenal’s struggles, highlighting their lack of a clinical edge and questioning their mentality. Declan Rice’s equalizer salvaged a point after Bruno Fernandes’ free-kick had put United ahead, but Arsenal’s inability to capitalize on their dominance frustrated many observers.
Keane was particularly critical of Arsenal’s performance, arguing that they lacked the ruthlessness needed to challenge for the title.
“If you don’t have a cutting edge and you’re not scoring goals, forget about closing the gap on Liverpool,” he said. He also warned that Manchester City, currently in fifth place, could overtake Arsenal if they don’t improve.
Merson echoed those concerns, emphasizing the tight race for Champions League qualification. “Fifth place is closer to Arsenal than Arsenal are to first,” he pointed out, highlighting the club’s precarious position.
Arsenal’s struggles in front of goal have been evident, with injuries to Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz, and Gabriel Jesus hampering their attacking play. Despite scoring seven in their midweek Champions League win over PSV Eindhoven, Arsenal have managed just one goal in their last three Premier League matches.
Jamie Redknapp believes the lack of an elite striker has hurt Arsenal’s title hopes. “They haven’t finished teams off in the same way this season. If they sign an elite striker, they will challenge for the title,” he suggested.
Names like Alexander Isak and Benjamin Sesko have been linked with the club, but whether Arsenal will move for a top forward remains to be seen.
Meanwhile, Gary Neville criticized Arsenal’s failure to strengthen their attack in recent transfer windows, suggesting that Mikel Arteta and his players have been “let down” by the club’s recruitment strategy. “They lack a focal point up top who can do the job for them,” Neville said. “Liverpool have better attacking options.”
With time running out in the title race, Arsenal must now focus on securing a top-four finish while addressing their shortcomings before next season.