Arsenal: A history of results after bad starts to the season

LONDON, ENGLAND - AUGUST 22: Romelu Lukaku of Chelsea shoots past Bernd Leno of Arsenal to score the first goal as Rob Holding looks on during the Premier League match between Arsenal and Chelsea at Emirates Stadium on August 22, 2021 in London, England. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images) /

3 of 8

3. Arsenal’s lowest points accumulation to begin a new Premier League season

The 2011/12 season got off to a terrible start under Wenger. The Gunners opened the campaign with an uninspiring 0-0 draw away to Newcastle. This was followed by a 2-0 loss at home to Liverpool. Next up was the most humiliating defeat in recent memory as Manchester United thoroughly embarrassed Arsenal 8-2 at Old Trafford.

It was a result that sparked the famous transfer window trolley dash, where a certain Mikel Arteta made his way through the Emirates doors.

The team finally won its first match on September 10th at the Emirates, 1-0 over Swansea.

As September ended, Wenger’s side sat in 13th place in the table with just 7 points.

Things eventually turned around. Despite the poor start, Arsenal finished the season in third place. It was the first time since the 2003/04 Invincibles that the Gunners finished above Chelsea. (Chelsea finished sixth).