Arsenal was feared to be on the relegation zone weeks ago with hopes of joining the European football closer to being doomed. But now, the case is different. How has Arteta turned the team’s form?
11 days ago, West Bromwich manager, Sam Allardyce said he considered Arsenal a relegation rival. But, after a week that Arteta described as “crucial”, his side is now 12 points above the relegation and could be starting to look into European contenders once again.
When Allardyce took over the managerial roles at West Brom, Arsenal was in 15th place, four points off the bottom three with only one win in the 10 Premier League games.
Currently, drawing from the successive victories against Chelsea, Brighton, and West Brom, the Gunners are now six points off the top four and 11th in the table.
How Did Arteta Turn the Tables?
According to the former Arsenal striker, Ian Wright, the current side “lacked confidence” and this urged Arteta’s side to play without feat against West Bromwich.
Arteta was rewarded with a goal from Lacazette, Bukayo Saka, Emile Smith Rowe, and Kieran Tierney who picked up a goal and an assist.
“They had to keep believing in themselves. But at the same time, the manager took a lot of responsibility on himself in the way they were playing. They were playing with a lack of confidence. Wins are going to totally change that”. Said Wright.
“There are younger players coming in who are playing without fear”.
Arteta’s verdict was also upbeat. He said, “this is as close as it gets to what we want. This is an Arsenal team with the idea I want. There were certain moments when we were very close to that. The players had the handbrake off and you can see they are free to play”.
“There were moments when we were really good, both defensively and offensively. This is exactly what we want the players to do. The energy and the momentum is much more positive”.
“It’s always tough to win away from home and we have done it in a really convincing way. It’s three in a row and we had talked about the importance of this week”.