Arsenal: 3 Negatives From Southampton Draw

Chemistry? What Chemistry?

Remarkably, there are still only four sides in the Premier League who’ve conceded fewer goals than Arsenal – 16 in 13 matches.

At the other end, it’s 11 in 13. 11 goals, in 13 matches.

Systems, tactics and the like all account for that, but the frightening lack of chemistry in Arsenal’s front four is another major issue.

In ever so minor doses we were given a glimpse into better link-up in the forward line, with some of diagonal passes into the box dealt with well by Eddie Nketiah, who fed either Nicolas Pepe or Dani Ceballos to his side.

Saka was the creator of anything positive, yet these instances occurred only fleetingluy, were either too slow or too rushed (confidence) and the lack of ball retention meant attacks only lasted a matter of seconds at most. The quality of football Arsenal play for large stretches of matches is painful viewing.

Such a distinct lack of chemistry is evident in the sheer volume of red cards, too. Solidarity among teammates would ensure focus in the application, as well as someone on the pitch putting their arm over another just to try and calm them down: ‘don’t go to ground or do anything rash’. Something of that ilk. Where is any of that?