Can Arsenal end their 20-year title drought this season?

November 4, 2025 Oliver Obel

Arsenal’s back line has become their biggest weapon. The partnership between Gabriel Magalhães and William Saliba has been the foundation of their success this season. Gabriel, often described by pundits as one of the best defenders in the world right now, brings physical dominance, while Saliba’s calm composure balances the pairing perfectly.

According to Opta, Arsenal have conceded only three goals in their first 15 league matches — an astonishing record in modern football. The last time they allowed a goal was on 28 September against Newcastle United, a game they went on to win 2–1. Since then, they’ve gone seven straight matches without conceding, keeping clean sheets across all competitions.

Their most recent test came in a 2–0 win over Burnley, where Marcus Edwards struck the post in stoppage time, narrowly missing the chance to end the run. That close call meant another shutout for Arsenal — their seventh consecutive clean sheet, a feat last achieved between March and April 1999, according to Opta’s historical data.

But it’s not just about keeping goals out. Arsenal have been denying opponents chances altogether. Over their last four league games, they’ve faced only one shot on target. That level of control reflects not luck, but an organized, collective effort — a clear product of Arteta’s tactical discipline and defensive coaching.

Set-piece superiority

Set pieces have become another vital part of Arsenal’s arsenal — quite literally. According to OptaJoe's X post from November 1, 2025, shows that they’ve already scored eight goals via corners in their first ten Premier League fixtures. If they continue at this rate, they could end the season with around 30 goals from dead-ball situations.

This newfound efficiency gives Arsenal a crucial edge, particularly against teams that sit deep and defend in compact blocks. With well-rehearsed corner routines and inventive free-kick strategies, Arsenal are finding new ways to break down stubborn defenses — an area that once frustrated their fans.

Squad depth and emerging stars

The summer transfer window has proven transformative. New arrivals such as Eberechi Eze, Piero Hincapié, Cristhian Mosquera, Noni Madueke, and Viktor Gyökeres have all shown flashes of what they bring — energy, flair, and versatility.

Young talents like Myles Lewis-Skelly, Ethan Nwaneri, and Max Downman are also beginning to make valuable contributions. Their inclusion in first-team rotations has provided depth and competition — a vital ingredient for any team chasing multiple trophies.

Key players driving the charge

Several standout performers have defined Arsenal’s impressive campaign. Declan Rice continues to anchor the midfield with composure and control, dictating tempo and breaking up play with precision.

Alongside him, Martín Zubimendi — one of Arteta’s most astute recent additions — has added balance and technical quality, helping Arsenal transition smoothly from defense to attack.

At the back, Gabriel Magalhães has led with authority and aggression, forming one of the league’s most dependable partnerships with Saliba. The Brazilian has also contributed offensively, recording two goals and three assists so far this season — a testament to his growing influence at both ends of the pitch.

Further forward, Viktor Gyökeres is starting to find his rhythm, contributing both goals and physical presence, while Bukayo Saka’s return from injury has reignited the right flank, bringing creativity and directness that few teams can contain. Together, these players embody the blend of resilience and flair that defines Arsenal’s resurgence.

The competition

While Arsenal have surged, their rivals have shown cracks. Liverpool’s inconsistent form has disrupted their rhythm, while Manchester City have looked surprisingly vulnerable, dropping points in games they’d usually dominate.

Yet despite Arsenal’s strong position, Mikel Arteta refuses to label his side as title favourites.

Despite Arsenal’s strong position, Mikel Arteta remains cautious about title talk. Speaking ahead of the club’s latest Champions League clash with Atlético Madrid — the day after Liverpools loss to Galatasaray — the manager said his focus remains purely on performance, not predictions.

“What gives me conviction is the team’s energy, commitment, and quality,” Arteta told reporters. “But you have to prove it every day — we can’t get carried away with anything.”

His words reflect a grounded mentality within the squad — one focused on consistency rather than hype.

Final verdict

For the first time in twenty years, Arsenal appear to have all the ingredients required for a championship-winning campaign — a solid defense, tactical clarity, and a deeper, more mature squad.

However, sustaining this momentum through the demanding winter schedule will be the true test. If Arteta’s side can maintain their current form and keep key players fit, Arsenal fans might finally see the Premier League trophy return to the Emirates Stadium in 2025.

Sources: BBC Sport, Sky Sports, The Guardian, Opta