Arteta’s Definitive Choice on Two Arsenal Players Highlights Their Main Challenge in the Premier League Title Race

Mikel Arteta has confirmed he has no intention of allowing two squad players to leave Arsenal in January, highlighting their most significant Premier League title challenge concern.

Many have doubted the Gunners this season, but they reaffirmed their strength in the Premier League with a commanding performance on Wednesday night.

The crucial 2-0 victory over Brentford marked an impressive extension of their unbeaten streak to 18 matches across all competitions. This has solidified their position as the top team in the Premier League, and potentially in Europe.

While Arsenal benefits from Liverpool's struggles and the erratic form of Manchester City and Chelsea, the north London side has methodically established itself as the most well-rounded team in the league.

Arteta’s evolution as a head coach has significantly contributed to Arsenal’s ascent, alongside their impressive transfer strategies and substantial spending.

This enhanced depth and quality on the bench has limited opportunities for certain squad members, particularly Ethan Nwaneri, with Gabriel Jesus facing a similar situation upon his return to full fitness.

As a result, there has been speculation regarding potential departures in January to secure more playing time in a World Cup year, but Arteta clarified why this won't happen.

“At the moment we haven’t had a situation where players have been out of the squad for three or four weeks in a row,” Arteta stated regarding Nwaneri and Jesus.

“We are fulfilling the squad with the players we have fit, so at the moment it is very clear that there is no option to do that [sell players or let them leave on loan].”

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Regarding potential signings, Arteta mentioned: “We always have to be prepared.

“The moment that we have an option to improve or protect the squad, depending on circumstances, we must be open to it, and we will stay alert for any risks regarding the squad.”

Earlier this week, we analyzed why Arsenal’s current injury situation, rather than challenges from Man City or Chelsea, poses their greatest threat in this season’s title race. Arteta’s comments on Nwaneri and Jesus support this view.

Will Nwaneri and Jesus receive sufficient playing time as the season progresses? Likely not. However, this is a secondary concern for the Gunners.

This season is pivotal for Arsenal and Arteta, who must secure at least the Premier League or Champions League title, making it imprudent to risk letting quality squad players leave on loan when they could step up if injuries strike again.