The Athletic FC Podcast Why Arsenal are the team to beat
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Oct 27, 2025 Join former professional footballer Adrian Clarke and football journalist James McNicholas as they dissect Arsenal's impressive season. They delve into the team's standout defensive performance, which has seen them concede just three goals in nine games. The duo discusses Mikel Arteta's influence, the importance of a strong defensive culture, and how Arsenal's depth can challenge rivals. They also explore the team's unique scoring variety and the ongoing battle for the title, weighing Arsenal's potential against historical pressures.
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Defense As Arsenal's Core Identity
- Arsenal have conceded only three goals in nine games, showing exceptional defensive consistency.
- That defensive culture is a team-wide identity driven by personnel, coaching and standards.
Depth Makes The Defence Resilient
- Arsenal's defensive strength comes from depth across centre-backs, full-backs and goalkeeper.
- The whole team defends well, making it more than just a back-four achievement.
Culture, Not Just Personnel
- Arsenal's defensive revival combines personnel, mindset and Arteta's standards.
- Victor Jørgensen's work rate sets the tone and the back four plus goalkeeper are outstanding.