Arsenal throughout the 2025-2026 season always has two big question marks. The open attacking style and fighting spirit of the London team need to be carefully considered. And that was revealed in the defeat to Bournemouth.
Arsenal fans have repeatedly defended the team's attacking ability, while praising the danger from set pieces. However, in a tense match, their weaknesses were evident.
When the final whistle sounded, home fans booed and protested, creating a heavy atmosphere at the Emirates. The victory over Sporting in the Champions League in the middle of the week seemed to help Arsenal stabilize after the shock of losing the Carabao Cup final and being eliminated from the FA Cup. But against a Bournemouth that is unbeaten in 12 matches, the top team entered the game clumsily.
Today we did a lot of strange things" - coach Mikel Arteta admitted after the match.
The instability is clearly shown in the way the ball is deployed. Goalkeeper David Raya almost passed the ball into the opponent's feet twice in the second half, reflecting a disorder in playing thinking.
The Gunners only generated 0.19 xG from live balls - the second lowest number in their history in the Premier League - showing deadlock in attack.
In the context of Martin Odegaard's absence due to injury, Kai Havertz's lackluster performance, and Eberechi Eze's lack of influence after entering the field, Arsenal almost has no clear creative plan.
The fact that 16-year-old player Max Dowman was brought on shows the lack of attacking options. This is a positive sign about a young talent, but also reflects the limited force of the team.
Meanwhile, Eli Junior Kroupi scored the opening goal for Bournemouth, contributing to Arsenal falling into a chasing deadlock. The "Gunners"' form is declining right at the most important moment, when they have lost 3 of the last 4 matches, after a series of 49 matches at the beginning of the season losing only 3 matches.
In the immediate future, Arsenal needs to react strongly. They only have a slim advantage against Sporting in the Champions League and must defend that result in the second leg.
Then came the pressured away match to Manchester City's Etihad stadium - the most rigorous test of bravery and mentality. If not improved, Arsenal's championship ambition could completely collapse in the decisive stage of the season.
It's really disappointing, this is a painful punch in the face. Today we did too badly the basics and were punished by the opponent. Then the match became chaotic, very difficult to control. We have to accept this pain. The feeling is terrible but tomorrow is a different day.
We need everyone, we need all healthy and ready players. Those who are absent today are all very important. When they return, the squad will be much stronger. The rest must stand up, starting from me, and accept this challenge to move forward" - Arteta said after the match.
