Issue: Arsenal and the lesson from... Man City

The 1-2 defeat against Man City might lead many to believe that the door to the Premier League title has closed for Arsenal, especially as they officially lost the top spot to this rival after more than... 200 days.

However, by looking deeper into the match's progression, the team's collective reaction, and the tactical adjustments Mikel Arteta is implementing, the North London club still retains its opportunities.

Positive signals

After the loss to Man City, Arteta decided to give Arsenal players two days off. This is not a knee-jerk reaction to defeat, but part of a pre-planned strategy to provide the whole team with necessary respite before the intense final stretch.

It is noteworthy that the atmosphere in Arsenal's dressing room was not gloomy as outsiders imagined. Instead, the team spirit remained stable. Post-match statements from Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard somewhat reflect this clearly. Both emphasized that the title race is not yet over.

In fact, despite the loss, Arsenal's performance against Man City offered many positive points. This is considered one of the matches where "The Gunners" played their best since early 2026, even more convincing than several previous victories. The organization of play, the ability to control tempo, and ball development situations show Arteta's team maintains a clear identity.

One reason for this improvement stems from the gradual return of key attacking figures. Odegaard's presence helped Arsenal's midfield operate more smoothly, while his role in linking play continues to be affirmed. Arteta has long viewed the Norwegian midfielder as the "brain" of the team, and the recent performance further solidified that belief.

Not stopping there, Arsenal also awaits the return of Bukayo Saka, a factor that could make a significant difference in the season's final phase. When Saka reappears, he is likely to combine with Odegaard and Kai Havertz to re-establish the attacking trio that helped Arsenal score 91 goals in the 2023/24 season. The absence of one or more of these key links is precisely why the team hasn't maintained its previous efficiency.

The lesson from Man City itself

One of the most notable points after the Man City defeat is the change in Arsenal's psychological state. For many months, this team had to live with the pressure of holding the top spot, an invisible pressure that persisted and grew. The fear of losing advantage, or doubts about their nerve in decisive stages, weighed heavily on each match.

Now, when the worst scenario has occurred, the feeling is not as negative as predicted. Arsenal no longer has to strain to defend the leading position, but can shift to the role of pursuer. This inadvertently helps relieve some psychological pressure, while creating new motivation for the remaining journey.

Arteta also stressed to his players that the title remains within reach. The Premier League is famously known for dramatic races until the final round, and this season is no exception.

Recent history also shows notable precedents. Man City itself experienced a similar situation in the 2011/12 season. At that time, they trailed MU by 8 points in the late stage, after losing to Arsenal. However, Roberto Mancini's team then staged a spectacular comeback, winning the title thanks to a streak of brilliant performances, culminating in Sergio Aguero's decisive goal.

The common point in such comeback stories is a psychological shift. When there is nothing left to lose, teams often play with greater freedom, daring to take risks and be more creative. Arsenal currently can also leverage this state to create a turning point.

Furthermore, the return of key players plays a role similar to how Carlos Tevez once helped Man City improve both professionally and mentally. For Arsenal, Odegaard's return and Saka's imminent reappearance bring high hopes for a different look in the final rounds. The change in match tempo, combined with Arteta's tactical adjustments, could make a difference in the crucial phase.