Ruben Amorim's bold changes spark debate after Arsenal defeat

In recent Premier League action, Arsenal struggled to secure crucial points in their title race, mirroring their disappointing performance in December of the previous year. On December 14, 2024, Arsenal managed only a 1-1 draw against Fulham at Craven Cottage, a match where they had previously enjoyed a lead, which was ultimately thwarted by an equalizing goal. This result added to the team's earlier dropped points in matches against Everton and Fulham. With these setbacks, Arsenal now trails Liverpool by six points, significantly jeopardizing their chances to claim the league title. For Mikel Arteta and his players, the current slump is a troubling déjà vu, as last year's form during the same month saw them falter significantly, dropping a critical number of points that eventually cost them the title. With the Premier League becoming increasingly competitive, maintaining momentum heading into the new calendar year is essential for Arsenal. The team's defensive structure was notably put to the test, and the inability to finish clear chances against tightly organized defenses reflected weaknesses that opponents have begun to exploit more frequently, as confirmed by goalkeeper David Raya’s statements post-match. Moreover, Arsenal's reliance on set pieces, which had previously distinguished them from peers, appears to be a double-edged sword. While their set-piece efficiency has improved, it raises concerns as the team has been failing to score from open play, which is crucial in tight matches. This recurring theme casts shadows on Arteta's strategic methodologies and highlights the need for tactical adjustments to diversify their attacking threats. The decisions made during transfer windows become critical as January approaches; Arsenal must bolster its attacking options if they are to recover points lost so early in the season. Fans and analysts alike are looking for a swift turnaround, fearing another missed title opportunity if the current trajectory continues into the New Year.