3 keys for Arsenal returning to winning ways after slump

Things can only get better, right?

After their torrid end to 2023 (not that anyone needs reminding), Arsenal will hope for a New Year’s resolution on Saturday when they host Crystal Palace at the Emirates Stadium.

Back-to-back losses against West Ham and Fulham stifled our title dreams last month, while a quick FA Cup exit has only exacerbated fears that the Gunners’ season is about to completely derail.     

3 keys for Arsenal returning to winning ways after slump

But the Dubai training camp should do Mikel Arteta’s men the world of good and leave them in prime condition for the similarly out-of-form Eagles, who have won just two of their last 15 games across all competitions.

Arsenal simply must get back to winning ways now, and here are three keys to an upturn in form.

1. Install Jorginho as the #6

Perhaps Thomas Partey was just a figment of the imagination.

Although the 30-year-old is said to be nearing his first-team return, this weekend will likely come too soon and Jorginho should, therefore, slot in at the midfield base instead.

Our Plan B represents a strong alternative as he recycles the ball well (arguably better) to limit opposition turnovers and, by merely being available, can allow Declan Rice to usurp Kai Havertz in the left #8 role (someone has to…).

Meanwhile, his physical issues are disguisable within the Arsenal structure and might be made up for by his sense of anticipation when tackling, meaning we will not lose much in terms of defensive solidity if he plays.

Jorginho has, curiously, earned very few minutes throughout Partey’s layoff, but the failings of our current midfield may see that change on Saturday.     

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