Arsenal is already behind Liverpool by 5 points: why Arteta is playing too cautiously.

Mikel Arteta is confident in Arsenal's plans

According to The Sun: On August 22, Mikel Arteta stated that the club's summer transfers would give Arsenal the opportunity to become the leader of the Premier League, not just a follower.

After the crushing 5-0 victory over Leeds, where new signing £63 million Eberechi Eze from Crystal Palace made his debut, Arteta noted:

“We are showing ambitions that we strive to win major trophies.”

The Gunners equalized 1-1 in the match against Manchester City on Sunday thanks to a late goal from Gabriel Martinelli.

“And we will be ahead, not just chasing. We just want to be ahead.”

A month has passed since the record spending of £250 million, and these words may become a burden for Arteta and Arsenal. After five matches in the Premier League, the team is five points behind flawless Liverpool.

Setbacks in games and squad problems

The situation is starting to resemble last season, when Liverpool effortlessly claimed the title, while Arsenal drew too often. Arteta usually points to several factors why Liverpool looks better this season while Arsenal is struggling to find the necessary rhythm. One of the reasons is injuries: Bukayo Saka, Martin Ødegaard, Kai Havertz, William Saliba, and Ben White have already missed games due to health issues, and Noni Madueke also got injured in the match against City.

Arteta needs to find a way to solve these problems or risk leaving a legacy similar to that of Rafa Benitez at Liverpool. Without an active playing style, the team is forced to play cautiously, and this could cost them the title.

At the moment, Arsenal is in second place in the Premier League table.

In case of further failures, Arteta may face pressure from fans and club management. Expectations are rising after significant investments, so the outcome of the season will be critical for the coach's position and the team's future in the championship.