Arsenal came away from their opening match against reigning champions Liverpool with points and plaudits—thanks to new signing Eberechi Eze lighting up the front line. While the result was impressive, the Gunners now face the bigger challenge: sustaining momentum throughout a demanding season. Here’s what they must do to maintain the early surge and elevate their title chances in 2025/26.
1. Building Midfield Control
Although Eze’s creativity earned headlines, Arsenal’s midfield must provide the engine for consistency. Key players like Declan Rice and Thomas Partey need to form a strong partnership to control tempo and shield the defense, while ensuring smooth transitions from defense to attack.
2. Rotating the Squad Smartly
With elite competition across League and Europe, squad rotation is essential. Wenger—sorry, Arteta must trust his bench to step up in fixtures like European nights or tight league clashes. Smart rotation helps preserve energy levels and prevent injuries in depth-reliant positions.
3. Maintaining Defensive Compactness
Despite a clean sheet at Anfield, Liverpool posed challenges with sustained pressure and quick transitions. To stay strong, Arsenal defenders must remain disciplined and coordinated: utilizing full-backs Thomas Partey and Rice to support both ends, while central players avoid being pulled wide.
4. Tactical Adaptability
So far, Arteta’s strategies have worked—but adaptation will be key. Liverpool exposed spaces behind midfield when Gunners pressed aggressively. Against versatile opponents, Arsenal must have game plans—whether pressing high, sitting deep, or playing possession-oriented football—based on their opponent’s style.
5. Leveraging Momentum for Confidence
Momentum and morale go hand in hand. If Arteta channels the Anfield result correctly, upcoming matches against mid-table teams can be treated as title test runs. Play with freedom, energy, and confidence—this cultural shift in belief can make a huge difference in tight games.
6. Utilizing Key New Signings
Last season’s narrowly missed title pushes prompted smart summer additions. Alongside Eze, players such as Zubimendi and Gyokeres must adapt quickly to deliver. Encouraging integration through game time and tailored roles will ensure Arsenal maintains the edge.
7. Focusing on the Title Race
At the season’s halfway mark, losing points against lesser sides cost previous title bids. Arsenal must be ruthless—turning dominant performances into victories, not draws, and eliminating complacency when facing bottom-six opponents. A long title race favors the mentally strong.
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