With a late goal, Arsenal solidifies their lead in the Premier League title race, but concerns surrounding the goalkeeper's performance persist
The young, talented Arsenal squad is determined to secure the club's first Premier League title since 2004, and Mikel Arteta seems to have addressed the team's past weaknesses. Their 4-3 victory over Luton Town, securing a five-point lead at the top, showcases the new Arsenal's resilience.
However, the late goal masked an issue that largely originates within Arsenal's ranks - the goalkeeper's performance.
The Dilemma of the Goalkeeper
David Raya, acquired at the start of the season, impressed in Brentford, leading to widespread attention. Arsenal's interest in Aaron Ramsdale, an English national team player admired by fans, caused further intrigue when he was named the star Number 1.
Arteta's decision to replace Ramsdale as the league's starting goalkeeper at the beginning of the season, a decision that has yet to deliver a clear positive outcome, remains questionable.
Raya's performance has been questionable at best, making errors and contributing to two Luton Town goals on Tuesday. His inability to prevent an Eckball from reaching Ilya Adebayor, resulting in a goal, is just one example.
Raya's abilities are not in question. His performance in Brentford culminated in interest from top clubs, foretelling his transfer to the Emirates Stadium. He is part of a new generation of goalkeepers, known for handling the ball well. However, Arteta's handling of the goalkeeper position and his unapologetic responses to media inquiries weigh heavily on both Raya and his backup keepers.
Ramsdale, seemingly surprised by his replacement from the starting lineup, managed to maintain a positive attitude in public after his demotion. He appears to have a good relationship with Raya, focused on the team's vision rather than individual gain.
However, his performance when called upon as a backup in recent months demonstrated his own lack of self-assurance and a series of errors that almost culminated in a goal.
With both goalkeepers seemingly off-form and under scrutiny, Arteta, at least on paper, faces an issue.
A Shifting Manager's Role
When asked about Raya's performance, Arteta declined to offer a substantive response, perhaps indicating that the decision to demote Ramsdale had not been an easy one.
AIrnett: "I'm very happy with the team."
"I've spoken to all of them, and they're all bouncing and are overjoyed. I'm a very happy manager today."
If this year is indeed the Arsenal's time to shine, there are many reasons for Arteta to feel pleased. A key player in this is Rice, who has excelled in the midfield. Despite a quiet night against Luton, his unwavering determination brought resilience to the team, a trait Arsenal fans yearned for.
Despite these issues and challenges, Arteta enjoys a successful campaign. Arsenal hovers above the other top contenders, including Manchester City and Liverpool. It's uncertain if they can maintain this form throughout the season, but with each passing result, the doubt grows increasingly minimal.
Also Read:
The future of Arsenal's stoppers remains uncertain. Although they hold a significant lead in the Premier League, managing their goalkeeping concerns efficiently will be imperative in securing the ultimate prize.
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Enrichment Data:
- Arsenal's goalkeeping department faces challenges, with concerns surrounding Raya's performance and the potential failure to replace underperforming backup goalkeepers.
- Arsenal's title chances are not hampered significantly by their goalkeeping issues, primarily due to their overall performance and other factors.
- Mikel Arteta attempts to address concerns by actively searching for a new goalkeeper, resulting in offers for young talents like Deniz Donmezer from Adana Demirspor. However, rejections pepper this process.
