3 reasons why Arsenal will not falter post-international break

My chest is here, so hit me.

Just like last year, Arsenal currently sit top of the Premier League table after 28 matches and are well in the mix for a long-awaited title triumph.

It was the post-international period in March that signalled the end of our past two campaigns, with several injuries derailing a 2022 Champions League push and a dismal four wins from ten allowing Manchester City to claim the domestic crown almost 12 months ago.    

However, the Gunners have grown considerably in that time and learned some harsh but invaluable lessons; something which should now see them avoid a similar, wretched fate and earn the prize themselves.

So, taking no notice of any jinx (eek!), here are three reasons why we should trust that Arsenal will not falter (again) on the post-international break hurdles.

1. A reduced international burden

Even Mikel Arteta is embracing the dark arts.

From THAT Selhurst Park trip in April 2022 to the loss of William Saliba in last March, key injuries have hurt Arsenal at this crucial juncture before and left fans wondering, helplessly, what might have been.

This year, the boss is trying to ward off such issues and will only be releasing ten first-team figures for international duty. Gabriel Martinelli, Takehiro Tomiyasu and Bukayo Saka are just three among several first-choice Gunners who recently withdrew from national selection, and their time off is very welcome ahead of a busy end-of-year schedule.

If our current injury worries are just precautions, then Arsenal have, unusually, a fully-fit squad to choose from (potentially including Jurrien Timber) and will be well-equipped for the lengthy title tussle - starting at the Etihad next week.

Continued on the next slide...