Squad Rotation: Evaluating Arsenals Depth for the Title Run In

As the Premier League season enters its decisive phase, evaluating Arsenals depth for the title run in has become a crucial talking point among fans and pundits alike. With Mikel Arteta’s side battling on multiple fronts, including the Champions League and Premier League, the ability to rotate key players without sacrificing performance could define their success. Can Arsenal’s squad withstand the physical and mental demands of the season’s final stretch, or will a lack of depth derail their title ambitions? Let’s assess the Gunners’ squad options as of 18th February 2025 and explore whether they have the strength in depth to go all the way.

Goalkeepers: Stability Between the Posts

As Arsenal approach the business end of the season, evaluating Arsenal’s depth for the title run in must begin with the goalkeeping department—an area that has seen subtle evolution throughout the 2024/25 campaign.

David Raya – The First Choice

After cementing his place as Arsenal’s No. 1 last season, David Raya has maintained his position between the sticks. His composure in possession and ability to play out from the back align perfectly with Mikel Arteta’s tactical philosophy. Beyond his distribution, Raya’s amazing shot-stopping ability has been a standout feature this season, producing crucial saves in tight encounters. His reflexes and command in one-on-one situations have often kept Arsenal in matches when their defensive line has been breached.

Norberto Neto – Trusted Backup

Veteran goalkeeper Norberto Neto joined Arsenal from Bournemouth in the summer to provide experienced cover, following a brief injury scare to Raya. While he may not feature often, Neto’s calm presence and Premier League experience offer reassurance should he be called upon in high-pressure fixtures during the title run-in.

Tommy Setford – Emerging Talent

Teenage prospect Tommy Setford has been training regularly with the first team. Though still some way off senior action in crucial fixtures, his presence as the third-choice goalkeeper highlights Arsenal’s commitment to developing homegrown talent. Setford’s technical ability and maturity at a young age suggest he could be a future asset for the Gunners.

Verdict: Secure but Reliant on Raya

While David Raya remains the clear first choice, Norberto Neto’s arrival provides seasoned backup, reducing the risk of disruption in the event of an injury. Tommy Setford’s development also ensures Arsenal maintain a healthy goalkeeping pipeline for the future. Crucially, Raya’s shot-stopping heroics have already proven decisive this season—his form will be key if Arsenal are to lift the Premier League trophy come May.

Defence: Cover for Every Scenario?

A solid defence is crucial in any title race, and as we assess Arsenal’s depth for the title run-in, Mikel Arteta’s backline has been one of the strongest in the league. However, injuries and potential summer departures could shape the club’s defensive plans moving forward.

Right-Back: Timber’s Resurgence Amid Injuries

Jurrien Timber – Arsenal’s Most Trusted Right-Back

Since returning from his ACL injury at the start of the season, Jurrien Timber has been Arsenal’s most reliable and consistent right-back. His ability to defend one-on-one, invert into midfield, and contribute in attack has made him a vital part of Arteta’s system. With injuries elsewhere in defence, Timber has played the most minutes at right-back and has been one of the team’s standout performers.

Ben White – Awaiting a Full Return

After an outstanding 2023/24 season, Ben White has endured a frustrating campaign due to a long-term injury. White’s return will be a massive boost as his defensive intelligence, versatility, and overlapping runs provide Arsenal with tactical flexibility. However, his match sharpness remains a question mark as he works his way back to full fitness.

Takehiro Tomiyasu – Versatile but Injury-Prone

Another player who has struggled with injuries this season, Takehiro Tomiyasu remains an important squad player due to his versatility. Capable of playing on either flank or centrally, Tomiyasu is a valuable defensive asset, but his recurring fitness concerns have limited his availability. When fit, he offers a defensive solidity that few can match.

Centre-Back: Saliba & Gabriel’s Dominance

William Saliba – The Defensive Pillar

Saliba has been Arsenal’s defensive rock once again this season, offering elite ball-playing ability, aerial dominance, and composure under pressure. His ability to read the game and snuff out danger makes him one of the best defenders in Europe, and his partnership with Gabriel has been the backbone of Arsenal’s title challenge.

Gabriel Magalhães – The Warrior at the Back

The perfect complement to Saliba, Gabriel Magalhães brings strength, aggression, and leadership to Arsenal’s defence. His aerial presence has been crucial in both penalty areas, and his defensive positioning has improved significantly over the last two seasons. A key figure in Arsenal’s defensive setup.

Jakub Kiwior – Reliable Backup, but Uncertain Future

Kiwior has provided solid cover at both centre-back and full-back, filling in whenever required. Despite his versatility, Napoli showed strong interest in signing him in January, and there is a chance he could move on in the summer. If Kiwior departs, Arsenal may need to sign another centre-back to ensure proper squad depth for next season.

Left-Back: Lewis-Skelly & Calafiori’s Breakthrough Year

Myles Lewis-Skelly – A Phenomenal Breakout Season

Originally a central midfielder, Myles Lewis-Skelly has adapted brilliantly to left-back and has been one of Arsenal’s standout players this season. Despite being just 18, his physicality, composure, and attacking intent have made him a key performer in several big games. His ability to drive forward, press aggressively, and recover defensively has made him indispensable in the absence of more experienced options.

Riccardo Calafiori – Another Young Star on the Rise

Sharing left-back duties with Lewis-Skelly, Riccardo Calafiori has also shown tremendous promise. His defensive work rate, ambition, and composure on the ball make him an exciting prospect, and he has displayed a surprising eye for goal when arriving late into attacking positions. The balance between Lewis-Skelly’s energy and Calafiori’s tactical intelligence has allowed Arsenal to cope with injuries and fixture congestion seamlessly.

Oleksandr Zinchenko – Technically Gifted but Out of Favor

Once a key player in Arteta’s inverted full-back system, Zinchenko’s defensive frailties and injury issues have seen him fall down the pecking order. While he still gets appearances off the bench, it looks increasingly likely that he will move on in the summer as Arsenal seek greater defensive reliability.

Kieran Tierney – Set for a Summer Departure

After returning from his loan spell at Real Sociedad, Tierney has struggled for minutes, with Lewis-Skelly and Calafiori ahead of him in the pecking order. His limited role suggests Arsenal will likely look to move him on in the next transfer window after just missing out in January.

Verdict: Impressive Depth, but a Centre-Back May Be Needed

• Right-back: Timber has stepped up in a big way, but White and Tomiyasu’s fitness issues remain a concern.
• Centre-back: Saliba and Gabriel are rock solid, but if Kiwior leaves, Arsenal may need to sign another central defender for squad depth.
• Left-back: The emergence of Lewis-Skelly and Calafiori has been a major success, though Zinchenko and Tierney’s likely departures mean Arsenal could reassess their options in the summer.

For now, Arsenal’s defence has been one of the best in the league, but reinforcements may be needed next season to maintain consistency at the highest level.

Midfield: Control, Steel, and Rising Stars

A strong and balanced midfield is the heartbeat of any title-challenging side, and as we continue evaluating Arsenal’s depth for the title run-in, Mikel Arteta has assembled a unit that blends leadership, physical dominance, technical class, and youthful energy. While the midfield has largely excelled, the looming summer departure of a key figure could bring significant change next season.

Declan Rice – The Ever-Reliable Engine

Since arriving in 2023, Declan Rice has become Arsenal’s midfield general—and this season has been no different. Operating primarily as the left-sided box-to-box midfielder, Rice has offered defensive security, physical dominance, and driving forward runs. He is ever-present in big games and has delivered consistently week after week, providing the stability that allows Arsenal’s more creative players to flourish.
With his ability to recover possession, break up attacks, and surge into the final third, Rice has become one of the first names on the team sheet. As the title race intensifies, his durability and composure under pressure will be vital to Arsenal’s ambitions.

Martin Ødegaard – The Captain and Conductor

Martin Ødegaard remains the creative hub and emotional leader of this Arsenal side. His vision, technical elegance, and leadership on the pitch have driven the Gunners forward whenever he’s played.
However, his two-month injury layoff at the start of the season was a stark reminder of his importance. During his absence, Arsenal’s form dipped, and their attacking fluency suffered. Upon his return, Ødegaard has quickly restored order, orchestrating play from his right-sided advanced midfield role and dictating tempo with his signature blend of close control and incisive passing.
His connection with Bukayo Saka and the front line is crucial, and keeping Ødegaard fit for the title run-in could ultimately decide Arsenal’s fate.

Thomas Partey – An Unexpectedly Durable Anchor

After two injury-plagued seasons, Thomas Partey has surprised many by becoming one of Arsenal’s most-used players this campaign. Operating as the deep-lying defensive midfielder, Partey has provided strength, ball-winning ability, and composure under pressure—offering the perfect shield for Arsenal’s defensive line.
His ball progression and press resistance have been crucial in breaking through defensive blocks, and his fitness has held up remarkably well, allowing him to become one of Arteta’s most trusted figures.
However, despite his resurgent form, it is widely expected that Partey will leave Arsenal in the summer when his contract expires, with the club reluctant to extend his deal due to his age and past injury record.
Partey’s brief cover spells at right-back have been less convincing, but his performances in midfield have cemented his place as a key figure for the remainder of this season.

Jorginho – The Experienced Technician,

While Thomas Partey has dominated the No. 6 role, Jorginho has proven to be an invaluable alternative when Arsenal need more technical control over physical dominance.
The Italian’s ability to dictate tempo, pick out line-breaking passes, and manage tight game situations has been on display, especially when coming off the bench to help Arsenal see out games.
His experience and tactical intelligence offer a different dimension when Arsenal require precision over power, making him a vital squad player in the title run-in.

However, despite his valuable contributions, it is becoming increasingly likely that Arsenal will not extend Jorginho’s contract, meaning he will depart on a free transfer this summer. With the club looking to refresh the midfield, Arteta appears to be prioritizing younger, more dynamic profiles to replace both Partey and Jorginho ahead of next season. Until then, his calmness and passing range will continue to play a crucial role as Arsenal push for the Premier League title.

Mikel Merino – A Versatile and Surprising Contributor

Mikel Merino was signed to provide depth to Declan Rice on the left side of midfield, and while he has often been criticized for his languid style and perceived lack of work rate, he has delivered some big moments for Arsenal this season.
His technical quality and ability to control play have been particularly useful when Rice has been suspended or rested, and while his off-the-ball work can be questioned, his on-the-ball composure is undeniable.
Perhaps his most memorable contribution came just the other day, when Arsenal’s attacking injuries forced him to play as an emergency striker against Leicester—a match in which he scored a brace, showing his eye for goal and adaptability. Showing he knows where to be off the ball potentially proving his doubters wrong.
Though not a guaranteed starter, Merino’s reliability when called upon has proven invaluable.

Ethan Nwaneri – The Breakout Prodigy

At just 17 years old, Ethan Nwaneri has exploded onto the scene this season and become one of Arsenal’s most exciting young players.
Initially given opportunities due to injuries in the squad, Nwaneri has grabbed every chance with both hands, scoring several long-range stunners and showing a maturity beyond his years whenever he’s been on the pitch.
Often deployed on the right side in Ødegaard’s absence—or as a wide option during Bukayo Saka’s injury spell—Nwaneri’s technical brilliance, dribbling ability, and eye for goal have raised an exciting dilemma:

Where does Nwaneri fit once Saka returns?

• Backup to Saka?
• Rotating with Ødegaard as an advanced midfielder?
• Deployed as a false nine due to Arsenal’s current striker injury concerns?
• Could Rice eventually drop into Partey’s holding role, allowing Nwaneri and Ødegaard to start together?

These are questions Arteta will need to answer, but what’s clear is that Nwaneri is now a legitimate first-team option.

Verdict: Balance and Brilliance, but Change is Coming

• Rice and Ødegaard are undroppable, providing control, creativity, and leadership.
• Partey has rolled back the years, but his expected summer departure will leave a void.
• Jorginho and Merino offer experienced, technical cover, with both showing their worth in key moments.
• Nwaneri’s rise is the wildcard, providing youthful flair and versatility—he is set to play a key role in Arsenal’s present and future.

As Partey’s and Jorginho’s exit looms, the shape of Arsenal’s midfield could evolve next season, but for now, Arteta has a blend of experience, steel, and youthful flair to power the title charge forward.

Attack: Firepower to Clinch the Title?

Goals win titles, but as we continue evaluating Arsenal’s depth for the title run-in, Mikel Arteta’s forward line has been ravaged by injuries, raising serious concerns about firepower heading into the defining months of the season. While some individuals have stepped up at crucial moments, inconsistency and fitness issues threaten to derail Arsenal’s attacking output.

Bukayo Saka – The Star Man Nearing a Return

Bukayo Saka started the season on fire, cementing his status as Arsenal’s talismanic attacker. Across 24 appearances, Saka produced an astonishing 22 goal contributions (13 goals, 9 assists), combining relentless attacking play with ice-cold finishing.

However, a hamstring injury in late December halted his momentum, forcing him to miss several crucial games. Fortunately for Arsenal, Saka is now nearing a return, with the next few weeks expected to see him reintegrated into the squad.
His comeback could be season-defining, offering the cutting edge Arsenal have lacked in his absence. With injuries elsewhere in attack, Saka’s fitness will be paramount to sustaining the Gunners’ title push.

Kai Havertz – Integral but Season Cut Short

Kai Havertz’s Arsenal career has divided opinion, but his goal tally tells its own story. Despite several underwhelming performances, Havertz netted 15 goals in all competitions, proving to be a clutch player in key moments despite lacking that number 9 finishing instinct.

Whether playing as a false nine or drifting into the box from midfield, his aerial presence and late runs into the area have bailed Arsenal out on multiple occasions.
However, disaster struck during the mid-season training camp in Dubai, with Havertz suffering a severe hamstring injury that has ruled him out for the rest of the season. His absence leaves a huge void in both goalscoring output and tactical flexibility, significantly reducing Arsenal’s options up top.

Gabriel Martinelli – Moments of Magic, but Inconsistency Remains

Gabriel Martinelli is a player capable of brilliance, but his 2024/25 season has continued to highlight his frustrating inconsistency.
When in form, Martinelli’s pace, directness, and goal-scoring ability make him one of the league’s most dangerous wingers. There have been spells where he has racked up goals and assists in quick succession, terrorizing full-backs with his relentless running.

Yet, sustaining that form for more than a few weeks has proved elusive. Martinelli has struggled to string together two months of consistent performances, often drifting out of games and lacking end product.

To compound matters, he suffered an injury in the gritty second leg clash against Newcastle, which is expected to keep him out for another month or two.
With Saka only just nearing a return and Havertz ruled out, Martinelli’s absence is another heavy blow to Arsenal’s attacking options.

Gabriel Jesus – From Resurgence to Heartbreak

Gabriel Jesus endured a frustrating start to the season, struggling for form and goals through the early months.
However, something clicked around late December, with Jesus finally finding his rhythm. He looked sharp, aggressive, and clinical, spearheading Arsenal’s attack with renewed confidence. His link-up play improved, and his pressing set the tone for the team.

Just as it seemed he had turned a corner, another cruel setback hit—an ACL injury sustained in the FA Cup tie vs Manchester United, which will side-line him for the remainder of 2025.
This latest injury blow leaves Arsenal without their most experienced striker, adding to the growing list of absentees in the final third.

Raheem Sterling – An Opportunity Missed

Brought in on loan from Chelsea on the summer’s deadline day, Raheem Sterling was handed a golden opportunity to revive his career and play a decisive role in Arsenal’s title push.
With injuries decimating the attack, Sterling was expected to step up, but his performances have been underwhelming.
Confidence looks low, and his decision-making in the final third has often frustrated fans. He slows down promising attacks, turns backward too often, and missed a penalty in the Champions League clash against Girona, further highlighting his struggles.

While Sterling is likely to get more chances due to the ongoing injury crisis, his current form suggests he is unlikely to rediscover his best level.
Barring a remarkable turnaround, he will almost certainly return to Chelsea once his loan spell ends.

Leandro Trossard – Reliable but Inconsistent

Leandro Trossard remains a valuable squad player, capable of producing big moments but equally prone to inconsistency.
He can play across the front line, and his technical quality often shines, but his performances vary significantly.
When he’s on song, Trossard is a match-winner, as seen in his stunning finishes and vital goals across the season. However, in other games, he can drift and struggle to impact play.

With injuries to Havertz, Martinelli, and Jesus, Trossard will likely see increased responsibility in the coming months, but whether he can consistently deliver remains a concern.

Verdict: Quality, but Stretched Thin

Arsenal’s attack possesses undeniable quality, but injuries and inconsistency have left it dangerously thin as the title race reaches its climax:

• Saka’s return is a beacon of hope, but his fitness must be managed carefully.
• Havertz’s season-ending injury is a major setback, robbing Arsenal of a key goalscoring source.
• Jesus and Martinelli’s absences further deplete the frontline, putting immense pressure on backups like Trossard and Sterling.
• Sterling’s struggles suggest he won’t be the answer, while Trossard must find consistency if Arsenal are to maintain their attacking threat.

The title run-in will test Arsenal’s resolve, and goals may need to come from unexpected sources as Arteta navigates this forward crisis.

Key Tactical Rotation Decisions

With Arsenal’s squad stretched thin due to injuries, Mikel Arteta faces crucial selection dilemmas in the coming weeks. As the Gunners continue their pursuit of the Premier League title, squad rotation will be more important than ever to keep key players fresh while maintaining performance levels. Here are the biggest tactical decisions Arteta must navigate for the run-in:

1. Managing Saka’s Return Without Overloading Him

With Bukayo Saka nearing a return from his hamstring injury, Arsenal’s title hopes will receive a massive boost. However, rushing him back too quickly could risk another setback—something Arteta cannot afford given the number of attacking injuries already sustained.

💡 Rotation Options:

• Leandro Trossard can deputize on the right-wing when Saka needs rest.
• Ethan Nwaneri, who has excelled in Saka’s absence, could continue to provide cover.
• Raheem Sterling, despite his struggles, may still be used in rotation.

🔑 Decision for Arteta:
Carefully manage Saka’s minutes—perhaps easing him back into games from the bench before restoring him to the starting XI when fully fit.

2. Replacing Kai Havertz’s Goals & Movement

With Kai Havertz ruled out for the rest of the season, Arsenal lose their second-highest scorer (15 goals) and a key tactical outlet in attack. His late runs into the box and aerial ability added an extra dimension, and without him, Arteta must rethink how Arsenal create and convert chances.

💡 Rotation Options:

• Leandro Trossard as a false nine, bringing link-up play but less physical presence.
• Mikel Merino, surprisingly effective in advanced areas, could be an emergency option again.
• Ethan Nwaneri, who has thrived in attacking areas, may also be experimented with in a central role.

🔑 Decision for Arteta:
Arteta needs to restructure Arsenal’s attacking approach, possibly shifting to a more fluid front three rather than relying on a central target man.

3. Who Covers for Gabriel Martinelli?

Gabriel Martinelli’s inconsistency has been frustrating, but his explosive presence will still be missed after his injury against Newcastle ruled him out for up to two months. With Saka still regaining fitness, Arsenal are light on natural wingers.

💡 Rotation Options:

• Leandro Trossard, who has already played frequently on the left, will take on a bigger role.
• Raheem Sterling could get more minutes, though his current form has not been convincing.
• Oleksandr Zinchenko or Kieran Tierney could be pushed forward to left wing, offering an attacking outlet and giving them minutes, as both have played further forward before in their careers.

🔑 Decision for Arteta:
A lot will depend on Trossard’s ability to stay consistent—if he delivers, Arsenal can survive Martinelli’s absence, but using Zinchenko or Tierney further forward could offer a fresh tactical twist while getting more out of experienced players who could leave this summer.

4. Finding Goals Without Gabriel Jesus

Jesus’ ACL injury means Arsenal no longer have a natural starting striker, forcing Arteta into makeshift solutions. Jesus had just started hitting form, and without him, the forward line lacks a focal point. Will they regret not bringing in a striker this winter?

💡 Rotation Options:

• Trossard can be deployed centrally, but he plays more like a false nine.
• Mikel Merino stepped up in an emergency and could be used in a unique role.
• Ethan Nwaneri as a false nine could be explored, given his goal-scoring ability and technical brilliance.

🔑 Decision for Arteta:
With no clear striker available, Arsenal must create goals collectively—midfielders and wingers will need to step up their output. With fans crying out for a striker before the injuries will one come in this summer?

5. Balancing the Midfield with Partey’s Future Uncertain

Thomas Partey has had an incredible season, playing more minutes than expected and dominating as Arsenal’s No. 6. His strength in duels, ball-carrying, and ability to shield the backline have been vital to Arsenal’s defensive stability. However, despite his importance, it is widely expected that Arsenal will not extend his contract beyond this summer, meaning Partey is likely to leave at the end of the season.

Arsenal have been heavily linked with Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi, a former teammate of Mikel Merino, as Partey’s potential successor. Zubimendi is seen as the ideal long-term holding midfielder to anchor Arteta’s system, due to his composure, passing range, and positional intelligence. A summer move is looking increasingly likely, meaning Partey’s departure would pave the way for this transition.

💡 Rotation Options (For the Rest of the Season):

• Declan Rice could drop deeper next season if Arteta wants a more physical presence at No. 6.
• Jorginho remains a backup option for when control and experience are required, though he is also expected to depart this summer.
• Mikel Merino could theoretically play deeper, but he is more comfortable in a box-to-box role.

🔑 Decision for Arteta:
Partey will remain a key figure until the end of the campaign, but Arteta must decide whether his long-term replacement will involve shifting Rice into a deeper role or integrating a new signing like Zubimendi to anchor the midfield in 2025/26.

Final Thoughts: Adaptability is Key

🔴 With multiple attacking players injured, Arsenal’s adaptability will define their title chances.
⚖️ Balancing Saka’s return with smart rotation up front will be critical.
🧩 Experimenting with different goal-scoring solutions—from Merino’s surprise impact to Nwaneri’s emergence—will be essential in navigating this injury crisis.

Arteta’s tactical flexibility will be the difference between title glory and heartbreak.

Potential Weak Points

As Arsenal enter the crucial final stretch of the season, their squad depth is being seriously tested by injuries. While the midfield and defence remain relatively stable, the attack is severely depleted, and right-back has also been an area of concern due to injuries. The key weak points in the squad are:

Position	Potential Concern	Possible Solution
Striker	No natural No. 9 available with Gabriel Jesus (ACL) and Kai Havertz (season-ending injury) out. Trossard can play there but lacks physicality.	Experiment with Mikel Merino as a false nine, use Trossard centrally, or test Ethan Nwaneri in an advanced role.
Left Wing	Gabriel Martinelli (injured for 1-2 months), and Sterling underperforming, looking low on confidence.	Leandro Trossard starts, while Zinchenko or Tierney could play as a more attacking LW option to give them minutes.
Right Wing	Bukayo Saka is close to returning, but his minutes need careful management to prevent re-injury. Ethan Nwaneri has impressed in his absence.	Ease Saka back into the squad gradually while continuing to use Nwaneri as a rotation option.
Right-Back	Jurrien Timber has played the most minutes here but needs rotation. Ben White is back in the squad (featured vs Leicester) but not fully match-ready yet. Tomiyasu is nearing a return.	Manage Timber’s workload, give White substitute appearances to build fitness, and integrate Tomiyasu when he returns.

With so many injuries in attack, Arsenal’s title challenge now depends on adaptability—Arteta must find creative solutions in the final third while managing players’ fitness carefully.

Arsenal’s Remaining Fixtures – Crunch Period Ahead

As Arsenal push for Premier League glory while competing in the UEFA Champions League, the fixture list looks punishingly relentless. Squad rotation, fitness management, and getting key players back from injury will determine whether Mikel Arteta’s side can end the season with silverware.

Premier League Fixtures

Date	Opponent	Venue
22nd February 2025	West Ham United	Home
26th February 2025	Nottingham Forest	Away
9th March 2025	Manchester United	Away
16th March 2025	Chelsea	Home
1st April 2025	Fulham	Home
5th April 2025	Everton	Away
12th April 2025	Brentford	Home
19th April 2025	Ipswich Town	Away
26th April 2025	Crystal Palace	Home
3rd May 2025	Bournemouth	Home
10th May 2025	Liverpool	Away
18th May 2025	Newcastle United	Home
25th May 2025	Southamptonhttps://www.southamptonfc.com/en	Away

UEFA Champions League Fixtures

Round of 16

• 1st Leg: 4th or 5th March 2025
• 2nd Leg: 11th or 12th March 2025

Quarter-Finals (If Arsenal Progress)

• 1st Leg: 8th or 9th April 2025
• 2nd Leg: 15th or 16th April 2025

Semi-Finals (If Arsenal Progress)

• 1st Leg: 29th or 30th April 2025
• 2nd Leg: 6th or 7th May 2025

Champions League Final (If Arsenal Progress)

• 31st May 2025 – Wembley Stadium, London

• (All drawn on February 21st.)

Fixture Congestion & Rotation Demands

• 13 Premier League matches + up to 7 Champions League fixtures in just over 3 months.
• Potential 20 matches in 94 days—an average of 1 match every 4.7 days.
• With key injuries to Jesus, Havertz, Martinelli, and others, Arteta’s rotation decisions will be pivotal.
• Saka’s return, Nwaneri’s form, and Trossard’s versatility will play a huge role in navigating this brutal run.

Survive this, and the double despite unlikely could be on.

Final Verdict: Is Arsenal’s Squad Ready for the Title Charge?

As the Premier League title race intensifies and Champions League knockout rounds loom, evaluating Arsenal’s depth for the title run-in reveals a squad filled with quality but stretched to its limits due to a brutal injury crisis in attack.

Strengths That Could Lead Arsenal to Glory

✅ Elite Defensive Core:
The Saliba-Gabriel partnership is rock-solid, while Jurrien Timber’s return has solidified right-back. Lewis-Skelly’s emergence at left-back alongside Calafiori has added resilience and energy, giving Arsenal one of the best defences in the league.

✅ Midfield Powerhouse:
With Declan Rice anchoring the left side, Partey enjoying a rare injury-free season, and Ødegaard back pulling the strings, Arsenal’s midfield remains one of the strongest in Europe. Jorginho and Mikel Merino provide trusted cover, while Ethan Nwaneri’s breakout season offers an exciting wildcard.

✅ Saka’s Imminent Return:
Despite the injury setbacks, Saka’s return from a hamstring injury could reignite Arsenal’s frontline, restoring the world-class output (22 G/A in 24 games) that powered their attack earlier in the season.

Concerns That Could Derail the Challenge

❌ Attacking Crisis:
The long-term absences of Jesus, Havertz, and Martinelli leave Arsenal without a natural striker and severely weaken the left wing.
Sterling’s struggles on loan and Trossard’s inconsistency heighten the risk of goal-scoring issues in the run-in.

❌ Squad Fatigue & Rotation Risks:
The fixture list is relentless, and Arteta must carefully manage Saka’s return and avoid burnout for key players like Rice, Saliba, and Ødegaard.
With the title race likely to go down to the wire and a potential deep run in Europe, fatigue could become a decisive factor.

❌ Thin Cover in Key Areas:
Right-back looks vulnerable if Timber is overworked, as White and Tomiyasu are only just returning from injury.
Striker and left wing remain major concerns, with goals likely needing to come from midfield and wide rotations.

The Bottom Line: Can Arsenal Go the Distance?

Yes—but it will be their toughest test yet.

🔑 If Saka rediscovers his form quickly, and Trossard, Nwaneri, or even Merino step up to cover the gaps in attack, Arsenal have the defensive structure and midfield control to sustain a title challenge.
⚠️ However, every game will be a knife-edge battle, and one more key injury—especially in attack—could prove fatal.
🏆 If Arsenal lift the title come May, it will be a triumph built on defensive resilience, midfield dominance, and the ability to adapt to adversity.

The quality is there. The belief is growing. But now, it’s about survival.

Fan Poll: Are Arsenal’s Squad Options Strong Enough to Win the League?

With key injuries piling up but Arsenal still in the title race, do you believe the squad has enough depth to go all the way?

🔴 Vote Below! 🔴

✅ Yes, we’ve got the depth!
👉 Our defence is elite, midfield is strong, and Saka’s return will give us the firepower we need. We can handle the pressure!

⚠️ Not sure—too many injuries!
👉 We’re still strong, but losing Jesus, Havertz, and Martinelli is a huge blow. If Saka isn’t fully fit, we could struggle for goals.

❌ No, injuries will cost us!
👉 The attack is too thin, and without a proper striker, we won’t keep up. Fatigue and fixture congestion will hit us hard!

💬 Drop your thoughts in the comments