Former Super Eagles coach Augustine Eguavoen has in on Arsenal’s ongoing struggle to win the Premier League, suggesting that their success is determined by the objectives set at the start of the season.
For the third consecutive campaign under Mikel Arteta, the Gunners have faltered in the title race. Currently trailing leaders Liverpool by 15 points with 10 games remaining, Arsenal’s chances of clinching the league are fading. Eguavoen pointed out that their failure to strengthen the squad during the January transfer window has left them vulnerable, particularly with Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz ruled out for the rest of the season.
"It depends on what the objectives are. When the season starts, teams have their board meetings with the entire staff and players, where they decide where they want to be at the end of the season," Eguavoen said on Home Turf.
The former Nigeria boss acknowledged Arsenal’s quality but expressed surprise that they have yet to secure a league title under Arteta. He also admitted that, as an outsider, he is unaware of the club’s internal priorities.
"By all standards, Arsenal should be winning the league by now. But where they are now, maybe they are comfortable," he added.
With Manchester City struggling this season, Arsenal had a golden opportunity to end their wait for a league title, but inconsistent performances have cost them. Their next challenge comes in the Premier League on March 16, when they face Chelsea in a London derby at the Emirates Stadium.
Editorial
Arsenal’s title ambitions have once again hit a roadblock, and the reasons behind their struggles are both tactical and strategic. While Mikel Arteta has transformed the club into a genuine contender, their inability to sustain a title charge suggests deeper structural issues that go beyond just what happens on the pitch.
One glaring factor is squad depth. The absence of a recognized centre forward for the remainder of the season following injuries to Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz exposes the club’s failure to reinforce key areas in January. In contrast, teams like Manchester City and Liverpool have developed squads with sufficient depth to withstand injuries and fatigue.
Another issue is mentality. While Arsenal have the talent to compete, their inability to close out title races raises concerns about their winning mindset. Manchester City, under Pep Guardiola, have set a relentless standard, and for Arsenal to dethrone them, they must match that intensity across an entire season.
Eguavoen’s point about the club’s internal objectives is an interesting one. Are Arsenal content with being top-four regulars, or are they truly aiming for the title? The club’s ambitions dictate their recruitment strategy, squad investment, and overall approach to crucial moments in a season.
With 10 games left, Arsenal still have a chance to finish strong, but their long-term goal should be clear moving from a promising side to genuine title winners. If they fail to address their squad deficiencies and mentality issues, another season of near misses could be on the horizon.
Did You Know?
Arsenal have not won the Premier League since the 2003-04 Invincibles season under Arsène Wenger.
Under Arteta, Arsenal have finished as runners-up twice 2022-23, 2023-24, missing out to Manchester City on both occasions.
Gabriel Jesus has missed over 30 games due to injury since joining Arsenal in 2022.
The Gunners’ last major trophy was the 2020 FA Cup, won under Arteta in his first season as manager.
Arsenal have the youngest squad among the current Premier League top four, with an average age of around 25.
