Arsenal's Premier League title hopes took a significant hit as they failed to score for the second consecutive match, drawing 0-0 against Nottingham Forest at the City Ground. This result follows their recent goalless draw with West Ham, marking the first time Arsenal has been unable to find the net in back-to-back league games since May 2023. The lack of attacking impetus has become a growing concern for the team, which now trails Premier League leaders Liverpool by 13 points.
The Gunners have struggled to secure victories this season, drawing nine out of their 27 matches. This is their highest number of stalemates in a league campaign since the 2019/20 season. Injuries to key players such as Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, Kai Havertz, and Gabriel Jesus have exacerbated Arsenal's issues, leaving them without crucial creators and finishers on the field.
Against Nottingham Forest, Arsenal registered only one shot on target, highlighting their ongoing offensive struggles. This was the third instance this season where the team has managed just a single shot on target in a Premier League match. Their inability to convert possession into clear chances was evident, as their 13 shots amounted to only 0.97 expected goals.
"We've got time to reflect. We have a few days now to reflect before the PSV game so I'm going to do it."
Mikel Arteta
Despite dominating possession, Arsenal found it challenging to break down Forest's resolute defense. Riccardo Calafiori came closest for the visitors in the first half, curling a shot that hit the inside of the post. In the second half, Mikel Merino forced a smart save from Forest goalkeeper Matz Sels following a corner. However, these efforts were not enough to secure a win.
The goalless draw against Forest echoed Arsenal's previous match against West Ham, where they took 20 shots but only managed an expected goals total of 1.22. The lack of cutting edge in attack has been a recurring theme in recent matches, underscoring the need for improvement if Arsenal is to compete at the highest level.
While Arsenal's Premier League title aspirations may be fading, manager Mikel Arteta remains determined. In the build-up to the Forest game, Arteta insisted that the team would not give up on their title chase "over my dead body." As Arsenal prepares for their Champions League last-16 tie against PSV Eindhoven next week, there is hope that they can turn their fortunes around on the European stage.
Elsewhere in the league, Liverpool extended their lead at the top of the table with a convincing 2-0 victory over Newcastle. This result further compounded Arsenal's frustration as they slipped further behind in the title race.
With key players sidelined and attacking woes apparent, Arsenal faces an uphill battle in their pursuit of glory this season. Their focus must now shift towards making a deep run in the Champions League, where success could salvage their campaign.
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