Partey's Injury Blues: Arsenal's Mikel Arteta Left in Limbo

 Arsenal's woes continue to mount as Thomas Partey encounters another setback, dealing a blow to Mikel Arteta's plans and potentially prompting a search for a replacement in the transfer market. The midfielder, who hasn't played for Arsenal since before the last international break, is now facing an extended absence until 2024 due to a thigh injury that required specialized treatment.

Despite Partey's efforts to aid his recovery with a leg brace, his return has been delayed, leaving Arteta uncertain about the exact timeline. Complicating matters further, the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations in January raises doubts about his participation, as Ghana may still want his involvement.

This season, the 30-year-old has only managed to start in three Premier League games due to recurring injury issues, including a previous groin problem. Just as he was nearing full fitness, Partey suffered another setback during training before a Champions League match against Sevilla.

Last summer, there were rumors of a potential move away from Arsenal for Partey, with interest from Juventus and Saudi clubs. However, the club did not receive any concrete offers, resulting in Partey remaining at the Emirates. Consequently, Arteta has faced midfield shortages throughout the season, with Jorginho partnering Declan Rice in recent games, but the need for an additional anchor man is becoming increasingly apparent

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Arsenal Battles Back for a Draw in Rain-Soaked Showdown with Chelsea

 

Arsenal managed to salvage a 2-2 draw against Chelsea after being 2-0 down in a match that took place on a wet, less-than-ideal evening in West London. It wasn't the Gunners' best performance, and their struggles this season continue to be evident. While the first half showed some competence, Chelsea dominated the later part of the match, and the praises from the commentators began to fade.

From where I'm sitting, this result is disappointing for Arsenal. While it's positive that they came back from a 2-0 deficit to earn a point, it's hard to ignore that it feels like two points dropped against a rather average opponent. Mikel Arteta's decision to start Jorginho in midfield and push Declan Rice forward might not have been the best choice, given Jorginho's struggles against energetic teams like Chelsea.

Arsenal's performance in the first 60 minutes was subpar, but their fortune turned when Robert Sanchez made a critical error, allowing Declan Rice to capitalize and score from a considerable distance.

The second Arsenal goal was a thing of beauty. Kai Havertz, who made an impact coming off the bench, set up Bukayo Saka perfectly. Saka's cross to the back post was flawless, and Leandro Trossard executed it excellently.

Once again, Mikel Arteta's substitutions made a significant difference. Takehiro Tomiyasu solidified the defense, which had looked shaky in the first half. Trossard scored, Havertz brought physicality and control, Emile Smith Rowe contributed to the play, and Eddie Nketiah added energy to the team.

On the issue of refereeing, Arsenal faced some tough calls. Marc Cucurella seemed to target Bukayo Saka with rough play. Arsenal should have been awarded a penalty when Robert Sanchez collided with Gabriel Jesus, similar to a previous incident that was apologized for.

Despite these challenges, Arsenal remains unbeaten in the Premier League. However, there's a notable issue in their attack. Their forward play lacks fluidity, and chances are scarce. While the attacking trio started their first match of the season together, the team needs to improve its offensive performance.

Sometimes, the points don't come in the most elegant way, but Arsenal is managing to stay competitive in the league, even when they're not at their best. The next challenge awaits as they continue to strive for improvement.

💬 "In the end, we got a point after a really difficult result and the way it started."

The boss was pleased by our never-give-up attitude following today's 2-2 draw with Chelsea 👇

— Arsenal (@Arsenal) October 21, 2023

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Arsenal and Tottenham Battle to a 2-2 Stalemate in North London Derby

 Bukayo Saka and Heung-Min Son Shine in Thrilling 2-2 North London Derby

In an electrifying North London derby, Arsenal and Tottenham battled to a dramatic 2-2 draw, with Bukayo Saka and Heung-Min Son taking center stage.

The action-packed encounter began with Cristian Romero inadvertently diverting Saka's shot into his own net, giving Arsenal an early advantage. However, Son's equalizer, just three minutes before halftime and following a fantastic save by David Raya against Brennan Johnson, brought Spurs back into contention.

The second half continued the rollercoaster ride as Romero's handball, reminiscent of an incident against Man Utd, allowed Saka to restore Arsenal's lead from the penalty spot. Spurs wasted no time in responding, with Jorginho's costly mistake leading to James Maddison setting up Son for his second goal of the match.

Both teams had opportunities to secure a late victory, with Kai Havertz and Saka coming close for Arsenal, while Richarlison's deflected effort narrowly missed the target in the 10th minute of stoppage time.

The draw leaves both sides trailing Manchester City by four points after six games, raising questions about their early-season title aspirations.

The North London derby lived up to its billing, with Son having an early strike disallowed and Gabriel Jesus squandering a golden opportunity for Arsenal. Saka consistently posed a threat for Arsenal, drawing a yellow card from Spurs' Destiny Udogie and creating chances for his teammates.

Arsenal broke the deadlock as Saka's shot was deflected into the net by Romero. However, Spurs regained their rhythm, with Raya making crucial saves to deny Johnson and Maddison. Son managed to level the score for Spurs just before halftime.

The second half commenced with a penalty for Arsenal, confidently converted by Saka, but Spurs quickly equalized again through Son. Both teams struggled to create clear-cut chances in the later stages of the match.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta refrained from criticizing substitute Jorginho for his costly error, emphasizing the team's support for him. He acknowledged that the second goal affected Arsenal emotionally and praised Tottenham for their competitive performance.

Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou praised Son's leadership and performance, as well as the contributions of Romero, Maddison, and Bissouma. He highlighted the team's character, belief, and perseverance in the face of challenges.

The North London derby showcased the intensity and competitiveness of both teams, leaving fans eagerly anticipating future clashes between these arch-rivals.

Player ratings

Arsenal

GK: David Raya (6)

RB: Ben White (6)

CB: William Saliba (6.5)

CB: Gabriel (6)

LB: Oleksandr Zinchenko (6.5)

CM: Declan Rice (6)

CM: Fabio Vieira (5)

CM: Martin Odegaard (6.5)

RW: Buakyo Saka (7.5)

ST: Eddie Nketiah (6)

LW: Gabriel Jesus (6.5)

Substitutes

Jorginho (2)

Kai Havertz (2)

Reiss Nelson (4)

Emile Smith Rowe (N/A)

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