Arsenal’s 2024/25 season under Mikel Arteta is shaping up to be an intriguing campaign. After narrowly missing out on the Premier League title last year, the Gunners are aiming to finally close the gap and bring home their first Premier League title since 2004.
With tactical tweaks, key signings, and standout performances, Arsenal fans have much to be excited about.
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Tactical evolution
Arteta has built on his tactical philosophy from last season, continuing to emphasise high pressing and possession-based football. The team's formation remains largely a 4-3-3, but with significant flexibility. Arteta has, however, made very noticeable changes.
With Jurrien Timber coming in for Oleksandr Zinchenko, Arteta is experimenting with placing the left back in different positions. Against Wolves, Timber was seen drifting inside as we would often see Zinchenko do, but against Villa and Brighton Mikel let the Dutch defender roam on the touchline.
The added versatility handed to the Spanish manager has to be seen as a plus for the Gunners as it makes them more unpredictable and much harder to defend.
While Arteta still maintains his possession-based football, the amount of the ball Arsenal have seen has definitely dropped. The North London club are confident without the ball and they have unlocked a new part of their game where they can sit back yet still be in complete control of the match. Arteta's preference for a fluid and direct attack is also evident.
Bukayo Saka has been as efficient as ever, while Leandro Trossard has offered additional depth as a super-sub. Trossard’s impact off the bench was notable in key matches early in the season, making him one of the key performers. Kai Havertz, who has been tasked with even more of an important position, is being utilized in a free-roaming role, operating both as a false nine and in deeper attacking midfield positions, which has added unpredictability to Arsenal’s attack.
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Performance so far
Arsenal’s start to the 2024-25 campaign has been a mix of positives and minor frustrations. The Gunners have looked solid in most games, with their pressing game and possession-based approach continuing to bear fruit. However, they’ve occasionally struggled to turn dominance into goals, particularly against sides that sit deep defensively.
Trossard’s ability to score key goals at crucial moments has helped alleviate these concerns, with the Belgian forward proving to be one of the standout performers. His strike against Aston Villa early in the season showcased his knack for stepping up when needed, even when he’s not in peak form.
Best players
David Raya has been exceptional between the posts, making crucial saves that have kept Arsenal in games. His standout performance against Aston Villa, where he denied Ollie Watkins twice, highlighted his shot-stopping prowess and composure. His double save against Atalanta is just more proof of the absolutely amazing shifts Raya has been putting in this season.
Saka continues to be Arsenal's most influential attacker. His dribbling, intelligence, and creativity from the right wing have been central to everything the team does on the offensive side of the ball. He remains a constant threat in the final third, linking up with Kai Havertz and Ben White to unlock defences. Saka's early-season performances have set a strong tone, as his relentless work rate and ability to break down opponents have made him irreplaceable in Arteta’s system. The star winger has provided a goal involvement in every Premier League game this season.
Leandro Trossard has become a vital game-changer, often making an impact as a substitute. His versatility allows him to play across the front line, and he has consistently contributed crucial goals. Against Aston Villa, Trossard came off the bench and made an instant impact, scoring with his first touch to break the deadlock in a tight game. His ability to score important goals has helped Arsenal overcome tough opposition and maintain momentum during key fixtures.
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Challenges and opportunities
One of Arsenal’s biggest challenges will be maintaining consistency across a demanding season. With Champions League football returning to the Emirates Stadium, and Odegaard already out, squad rotation and depth will be critical. Injuries could derail their momentum, as they did last season, making the management of players like Saka, Saliba, and Rice crucial.
In terms of opportunities, Arsenal have a deep squad filled with both youthful talent and experienced players. The tactical flexibility that Arteta has instilled gives the team the ability to adapt to different opponents, making them one of the most unpredictable sides in the league. Competing in the Champions League also presents a chance for Arsenal to showcase their progress on a larger stage.
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Conclusion
Arsenal’s 2024-25 season is one of high hopes and expectations. With tactical improvements, key signings, and standout performances from established stars, the Gunners are well-positioned to challenge for the Premier League title and compete across multiple fronts.
Challenges remain, however, especially in integrating new players and managing the squad’s fitness. If Arteta can solve these issues, Arsenal fans may finally see their team lift the Premier League trophy again.
