Some talking points to revisit at the break

We are in the second international break of the season. Eighteen Gunners are on assignment with their home nations, which means the fear of injury in these matches is always a worry for Arsenal supporters, especially when the season is rolling along so nicely.

However, there are other things to talk about at the moment as well, including some odds and ends from around the Premier League and European football.

The biggest news so far this season is the 114 guilty charges against Manchester City for violating Premier League financials rules. City is appealing, while the rest of us are waiting to see what punishment will be slapped on the Sky Blues. A major points deduction for this season, relegation to League One for next season, along with massive fines and retribution to be paid to Premier League clubs impacted by Man City’s cheating. Their titles should be wiped clean from the record books as well. Bottom line, Manchester City needs to pay dearly for the huge stain they have put on English football, and on the game in general.

Several of this seasons biggest surprises are the accomplishments of both Brighton and Hove Albion and Como. Brighton is currently second on the Premier League table, just 5 points behind the Gunners. Let’s not forget, the Seagulls handed Arsenal their only league defeat so far. Brighton is a club that will continue to provoke damage in the EPL for the remainder of the season.

Serie A club Como, managed by Arsenal legend Cesc Fabregas, is making a lot of noise not only in Italy but also in the Champions League. Como is currently 6th on the Serie A table, but surprisingly 4th on the current UCL League Phase standings. However, Como’s biggest claim to fame this season is a record-setting 9-1 win over Lens on November 4th. This set a record for the most away goals ever scored in UCL history. My prediction, one day Fabregas will manage Arsenal.

Also, a quick shout-out to Premier League newcomers Hull City and Ipswich Town. The Tigers are currently 13th on the Premier League table, while the Tractor Boys sit in 14th, respectively. So far, these are strong showings from two of this season’s promoted clubs.

And, of course there are some clubs not doing so well at this point of the season.

Manchester United is currently in total chaos. The club’s manager is in deep water as his club sits in the relegation zone in 18th place. The Red Devils have just one Premier League win this season after ten matches played. Will this become the biggest story in world football this season?

What happened to Sunderland? After a strong showing last season, Granit Xhaka and his Black Cats are currently 19th on the EPL table.

Moving down a division, American-owned Championship-side Wrexham is struggling in the Championship in 15th place following a remarkable climb from non-league football in just three seasons, and then just missing the play-offs last season that could have potentially gave them a shot to climb into the Premier League. Yes, football is a cruel business.

And then there is Leicester City. The Foxes are now in League One, and sit in 10th place at the break. Leicester City has taken a mighty fall since winning the Premier League in the 2015/2016 season. Again, football is a cruel business.

And finally, how about a huge congratulations to David Raya for being named to the 2026 FIPRO World XI. This is an amazing honor for the Gunners #1 goalkeeper!

So, stay tuned asd there will be many more soties to unfold in the monthes ahead in thew rodl of football!

Cheers.

Gunner1953