Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta came away from Saturday’s 3-1 win over Southampton with a tough lesson that could prove decisive in the Premier League title race.
The Gunners, against the odds, found themselves 1-0 down to Russell Martin’s men after Cameron Archer’s strike. The first hour was a frustrating one for Arteta but Kai Havertz responded quickly with his fourth goal in as many matches.
After that, the tempo switched with three subs by Arteta. Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard replaced Raheem Sterling and Gabriel Jesus before Jorginho added Premier League experience to the midfield.
It took Martinelli seven minutes to score before Bukayo Saka made sure of the three points in the 88th minute. Job done for Arsenal, but for Arteta, there are concerns.
Jesus and Sterling were both handed their first debuts in the Premier League this season by the Spaniard with Martinelli and Trossard being rested. However, they both failed to make an impact against one of the leakiest defences in the league.
The Brazilian, who was reportedly the subject of interest from Brazilian side Palmeiras, completed just nine passes (69%), lost the ball four times and failed to link-up play when needed.
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At left-wing, Sterling also struggled. It means Arteta’s second options have not given Arteta any selection headaches ahead of the Bournemouth game after the international break. It’s fair to say the pair were off the standard they are able to produce.
To make matters worse for them, Arsenal drastically improved when Arteta introduced Trossard and Martinelli. When the Gunners come up against Liverpool at the end of the month, the complacency in the pair’s display will be a concern.
Fortunately, both players will remain at London Colney over the international break meaning Arteta will have time to work with them. When the Gunners return to action on October 19, they have a stretch of seven games that both Jesus and Sterling will be needed for.
