Arsenal remain unbeaten this season without having fielded their best XI in any match – could this be the mark of a winning team?
For 20 years, Arsenal fans have been saying, “Maybe next season will be ours.” Now, former Arsenal player Adrian Clarke suggests that the 2024-25 season might finally bring victory to the Emirates Stadium.
The North London club has delivered results, staying undefeated after seven games with five wins and two draws. Clarke acknowledges that this is impressive, especially because Arsenal hasn’t yet shown their best form. He thinks it’s significant that Mikel Arteta hasn’t played his strongest team, and that should worry opponents, as the squad has even more potential. Despite the difficulties Arsenal has encountered, Clarke believes they’ve persevered and performed well, even in tough matches, without their best players.
“What’s most exciting for Arsenal supporters is the fact Arteta hasn’t had a chance to pick his strongest XI yet,” Clarke wrote in his column for talkSPORT.
“When Declan Rice, Mikel Merino, and Martin Odegaard form his central midfield, there’s every chance the team will find another gear.
“It’s strange because so much of the season so far has not gone to plan for the Gunners. At times, it’s felt like setback central.
“Yet with three of the toughest fixtures already out of the way and key players on their way back, I feel more bullish than ever about Arsenal’s chances of finally winning the Premier League.”
While Clarke praises Arsenal’s achievements so far, he notes that Arteta may have to wait longer to field his best team due to Odegaard’s reported injury setback. Nevertheless, it’s clear this team can win even without their top players, which is remarkable.
