Breaking: Arsenal Crumbles at Home, Losing 1-2 to Bournemouth in Controversial Set-Piece Defeat; Arteta Questions Timber’s Suitability for PSG Trip; White and Partey Start in Defeat
In a shocking turn of events, Arsenal has suffered a disaster at home, falling 1-2 to Bournemouth in a Premier League clash that raises serious questions about the team’s title credentials. The Gunners, who began the game with a full-strength lineup featuring Thomas Partey and Ben White, were undone by a pair of set-piece goals, with Evanilson netting the winner in stoppage time.
Mikel Arteta’s side, which had previously won 13 games in a row at the Emirates Stadium, now faces increased pressure following this unexpected defeat. Arteta admitted that his team gifted hope to their opponents, and when asked about defender Takehiro Tomiyasu’s potential absence for the upcoming clash with Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League, he raised doubts about Tomiyasu’s replacement, William Saliba, hinting that Arsenal might not be putting their best foot forward in France.
Arsenal’s Concerning Slip: Set-Piece Struggles and a European Dilemma
A Disappointing Défaite at the Emirates
Arsenal fans left the Emirates Stadium on Saturday with a bitter taste in their mouths, as Bournemouth staged a stunning comeback to secure a 2-1 win, courtesy of set-piece tallies fromJunior Stanislas and a late winner from latest signing, Evanilson. This defeat, Arsenal’s third in their opening five Premier League games, has ramped up pressure on manager Mikel Arteta and raised serious questions about the Gunners’ season ahead.
The Set-Piece Menace
The Gunners’ downfall was their inability to defend set pieces. Bournemouth’s goals were carbon copies of each other, exposing Arsenal’s frailty from corners and free-kicks. Arteta’s side conceded seven set-piece goals in their opening five league games, more than anyone else in the top flight. They’ve leaked more goals from set pieces than Crystal Palace, Manchester City, and Sheffield United combined in the entire 2020-21 season.
Arteta Under Scrutiny: Timber in Doubt for PSG
Arteta admitted his side had given Bournemouth "hope" by conceding early, raising doubts about Arsenal’s) ability to challenge for silverware this season. The Spanish tactician also revealed that新Italian international center-back, Wiliam Saliba, was not fit enough to face Bournemouth, fueling speculation that seasontakings Ol_TRUEBen White and Takehiro Tomiyasu may not be the solution to Arsenal’s defensive woes. Arteta’s selection of these defenders for our midweek fixture against PSG** in the Champions League has been thrown into doubt.
White and Partey Start, but Promise No Guarantee
Arteta started Ben White and Thomas Partey in Arsenal’s matchday squad for the first time this season, hoping the pair would Inject fresh impetus into the team. Despite showing glimpses of class, they couldn’t prevent the defeat. White’s inclusion may have signalled a shift to a back four, but with right-back Takehiro Tomiyasu ruled out, it remains to be seen if the Gunners’ defensive crisis has been solved.
Did You Know?
💡 Arsenal have now lost more Premier League games this season (3) than they did in the entire 2020-21 campaign (2)!
Pro Tip
🛡️ Arteta is under pressure to revitalise Arsenal’s defence. Fans should keep an eye out for potential transfer activity before the deadline, and monitor whether those in the current squad step up their performances.
FAQs
Q: Can Arsenal still qualify from their Champions League group?
A: Yes, despite the setback against PSG in the opening game, Arsenal still have four games left to secure a top-two spot.
Q: Who could Arsenal target to reinforce their defence?
A: Douglas Luiz of Aston Villa, Lorenzo Pellegrini of AS Roma, andBednarek of Hellas Verona have all been linked with moves to the Emirates.
Call to Action
📣 With Arsenal facing a crucial Champions League clash against PSG and a North London Derby against Tottenham next, now is the time for fans to have their say. Will Arteta’s Gunners turn their fortunes around, or are we in for a long season? Share your thoughts in the comments and explore more football news and insight on 247sports.new!