Chelsea v Arsenal is a “must win” for the Gunners

If Arsenal has any hopes of making the top four in the Premiere League by the end of the season the wins must begin piling up, and soon.
I hate to use this old sports cliche, but Tuesday’s game at Chelsea is a “must win.” There is absolutely no question about it.

Mikel Arteta’s managing career began just a few short weeks ago. His second game was on December 29th when Arsenal played host to Chelsea. Unfortunately, our lads lost that game 2-1, but in the process provided the beginning of the Arteta era with some positives.

On Tuesday, Arteta and his team will bus across town to west London to meet a Chelsea team that is currently bouncing back and forth between wins and losses. However, even though they have shown inconsistency in the win/loss column, Frank Lampard has been able to keep his Blues in 4th place in the Premier League. During his first year on the job, the former Chelsea captain has done a terrific job, and is on track to have a great managerial career.

So, on Tuesday, it’s Arteta v Lampard, the second meeting between two of the leagues’s new breed of managers.

What can we expect?
Well, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang remains on suspension, so we should see our young forward Gabriel Martinelli get another start at left wing.
Lacazatte and Pepe should top off the front three. Ozil, Torreira and Xhaka will run the midfield, with Leno in goal.
The big question will be the back four. One would have to think Hector Bellerin is ready to play on the left side, however Saka did an exceptional job v Sheffield United. Maitland-Niles will probably start at right back. I would hope Rob Holding and David Luiz will make-up the center back roles.

Defensively, we have been more organized and less prone to making the big mistake since Arteta took over the team. In his 6 games, the Gunners have given up only 5 goals. Overall shots and shots on goal have dramatically decreased as well. Leno is finally getting some support.

Offensively, we have continued to struggle. In the last 6 games, our lads have only found the back of the net 6 times. This number is really too low, and is a big reason why we continue to draw games.

Tuesday, I would expect an open game on both sides, with counter-attacking efficiency being very important. Keep an eye on Chelsea striker Tammy Abraham. He has found the goal 13 times this season in the Premier League. Willian has been providing assets, while goalkeeper Kept Arrizbalaga has 41 saves.

Let’s go out on a limb and project the final score will be: Chelsea 1 – Arsenal 2.

3 points are not only needed, they are required!

Cheers. Gunner1953