3 takeaways from Arsenal’s disappointing draw to West Ham

LONDON, ENGLAND - APRIL 16: Aaron Ramsdale of Arsenal punches the ball clear under pressure from Jarrod Bowen of West Ham United during the Premier League match between West Ham United and Arsenal FC at London Stadium on April 16, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - APRIL 16: Aaron Ramsdale of Arsenal punches the ball clear under pressure from Jarrod Bowen of West Ham United during the Premier League match between West Ham United and Arsenal FC at London Stadium on April 16, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images) /
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Arsenal went to West Ham with the hope of mounting pressure on Manchester City in the title race.

Despite an electrifying first ten minutes that saw the Gunners gain a two-goal advantage, the horrors of Anfield appeared to travel with the team to east London as they eventually succumbed to a 2-2 draw.

3 takeaways from Arsenal’s disappointing draw to West Ham

Here are three takeaways from the bout at the London Stadium.

Arsenal’s build-up wasn’t as efficient on Sunday. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
Arsenal’s build-up wasn’t as efficient on Sunday. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images) /

1. Defence and Ramsdale disconnect

Mikel plays an eye-pleasing play out from the back system. However, against West Ham, it seemed as though Gabriel was reluctant to pass the ball back to Aaron Ramsdale when under pressure by the likes of Michail Antonio.

The Brazillian centre-back had a fairly solid performance, but was often found making a last-ditch pass from the corner flag. The Arsenal goalkeeper had one of his best performances since he signed for the club against Liverpool but wasn’t able to be involved in the build-up today.

Overall the defence wasn’t at its best and although Kieran Tierney played well, the magic feet of Zinchenko were noticeably missed. The return of William Saliba is highly anticipated as Arsenal looks to bolster their backline heading into two massive fixtures against the Saints and the Citizens.

Continued on the next slide…