Arsenal’s quest to once again become a Premier League powerhouse took a hit when the Gunners encountered an unlikely upset at Southampton last weekend. The match, that ended 3-2 in favour of Southampton, saw Unai Emery’s team lose its 22-game-unbeaten streak.
Arsenal followed up its loss to Southampton with another loss in the midweek. Facing Tottenham is always a huge occasion for the Gunners, and losing to their neighbours at home is probably one of the most upsetting things for the North London side.
After two back to back losses, 18th placed Burnley was arguably the team Arsenal would hand-pick, if given the choice, in hopes of an easy night, match which ended in a 3-1 win for the hosts.
Here are some takeaways from Arsenal’s 3-1 victory against Burnley.
Back to winning ways
Since Unai Emery’s appointment as Arsenal’s manager, the men in red have been a force to reckon with.
One of the most successful clubs in England, Arsenal had been in a bit of a slump in their recent years. Failing to qualify for the Champions League was probably Arsenal’s biggest failure in recent times.
However, the 13-times FA Cup Winners have been in terrific form under new management. Arsenal has played some eye-pleasing football in recent weeks. The team has looked like one that can seriously contend for trophies.
Getting a win after two consecutive losses will be a real morale boost for the players, especially ahead of the busy Christmas Period.
3️⃣ GOALS
3️⃣ POINTS
🔙 ON TRACK#ARSBUR pic.twitter.com/8D1cleNCOH— Arsenal (@Arsenal) December 22, 2018
Aubameyang has his shooting boots firmly in place
Arsenal’s top scorer this season, Aubameyang, overtook Liverpool’s Mohamad Salah to once again become the league’s leading goal-scorer.
With 12 goals in 18 games, Aubameyang has been sensational for Arsenal this season. His form in front of goal has been a key component in Arsenals recent run of form.
The Gabon international is clearly a serious contender to win the Golden Boot this season and currently sits at the top of goal scoring chars ahead of the likes of Harry Kane, Sergio Aguero and Mohamad Salah.
🔮 Sokratis predicted it, @Aubameyang7 delivered it
And now Papa's got another prophecy…
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) December 22, 2018
Ozil’s Arsenal Career
Mesut Ozil has struggled to get into Unai Emery’s first XI this season. With Arsenal winning game after game and reports of a deteriorating relationship between the duo, one would expect Ozil to look for new pastures sooner rather than later.
His performance against Burnley, however, indicates otherwise. With an impressive performance in the game, Ozil proved that he can still be of value to the team.
His unreal vision coupled with his brilliant technical ability was what lead to Arsenal’s opening goal of the night. The German international followed it up with a brilliant solo run in the dying minutes of the game before setting up Alex Iwobi for Arsenal’s third of the night.
Vision level 💯
Sitting here still struggling to figure out how @MesutOzil1088 played in @seadk6 😱
#ARSBUR pic.twitter.com/RxRmctNrSd— Arsenal (@Arsenal) December 22, 2018
The 30-year-old midfielder made a strong case for himself with his performance. Unai Emery might just be tempted to include the ex-Real Madrid man in his future plans.
Arsenal need reinforcements
Arsenal is not the best team in the League in terms of depth. Critics have repeatedly questioned Arsenal’s defensive capabilities. Emery has fielded Granit Xhaka and Nacho Monreal as make-shift centre-backs in the past couple of games.
An injury-hit season for many of the Arsenal player has done the North London side no favours either.
Also, with Aaron Ramsey’s contract expiring and Ozil’s future uncertain, Emery must bring in players in January to address the team’s defensive problems and replace players who might soon be leaving.
Follow Arsedevils for latest football updates on Arsenal and Manchester United.
