Following yet another disappointing result, Gunners question the legitimacy of a serious title challenge. In the past three fixtures, Arsenal has taken a measly point from a possible nine. Leicester on the other hand only dropped two points, and Tottenham made up ground by taking four points. To make things even worse, the Citizens have a chance to take third place, as they played one less fixture this season. As it stands, Arsenal are three points behind Tottenham and eight points behind Leicester.
Fortunately, there are still twenty-seven points to be won. The Premier League is, of course, famous for every team being a competitive one, and this season that is more than true than ever (except Aston Villa). Leicester still have a long road to travel to victory, and if Arsenal can start making up ground quickly, the pressure will only grow on the Foxes. Arsenal cannot afford to lose another match, especially not in the next few weeks.
Although the North London Derby was a frustrating result, there were positive moments in the game. Both Ramsey and Sanchez played well and managed to break their goal droughts. Per Mertesacker looked five years younger, and there may be hope for him still. Welbeck continues to impress, and Elneny had a strong showing in his first premier league start. Hector Bellerin was an offensive threat, and his defensive performance improved from recent weeks though admittedly it needs to develop more. Ozil played quite well, and his form is by far the best in the Arsenal squad. There can be no complaints about Gibbs, and he gave Monreal a deserved break. Gabriel is still naive, but his performance was much better compared to that against United.
Arsenal needs more out of key players. Giroud hasn’t found the net in past weeks, and Walcott’s only positive contribution was his goal against Leicester. Coquelin’s wild nature was highlighted against Spurs, and he needs to keep his head once he is back in the squad. Ospina had a tough game against Tottenham, and he must maintain the level of play until Cech returns.
In the end, the league will be decided in the last three games. Arsenal’s biggest game is on matchday 37 against Manchester City. This match will undoubtedly have a large impact on the final standings, and on the same day, Leicester will have to deal with the attacking threat of Everton. Leicester’s last three games are against United, Everton, and Chelsea. Three big opponents at a time when mistakes are lethal to title hopes points very well might be dropped. Tottenham faces Chelsea and Southampton on matchday 36 and 37 respectively.
The league has not yet run its course. While Leicester are now the favourites, a lot can happen, and Gunners should not lose faith just yet.
