After Arsenal's shocking loss to Liverpool, Michael Cox and Art de Roche discuss what the Gunners need to change to save their season. They also touch on tactical changes in soccer games, challenges of a large squad, passing tempo, and controversies surrounding a coach and the Spanish national team.
Arsenal's defeat against Liverpool in the opening game of the Women's Super League season highlights the importance of not losing frequently in a 22-game season.
The early exit from the Champions League, coupled with the loss against Liverpool, puts Arsenal in a challenging position, fighting for a Champions League spot and trying to make up for the loss in brand value.
Deep dives
Arsenal's shock loss in front of a record crowd
Arsenal suffered a surprising defeat in front of a record crowd against Liverpool. While some argue that a loss in the opening game is not a cause for concern, others highlight the importance of not being beaten frequently in a 22-game season. The defeat against Liverpool was a significant blow to Arsenal, who are already out of the Champions League. The team faces a challenging task against Manchester United next, and their performance in that game will be crucial.
The impact of Champions League loss on Arsenal
Arsenal's early exit from the Champions League adds to the pressure on the team. The defeat in the opening weekend of the Women's Super League makes it even harder to accept. The Champions League games last season played a significant role in boosting Arsenal's brand and attracting large crowds. Coupled with the loss against Liverpool, Arsenal finds themselves in a tough situation, playing catch-up and fighting for a Champions League spot.
Issues with Arsenal's performance and tactics
Arsenal's performance against Liverpool highlighted certain shortcomings. The team's defending during the goal conceded was below the expected standards, and their crossing strategy, with 39 crosses attempted, did not yield the desired results. The lack of variation in delivery and the failure to exploit the wide areas effectively played into Liverpool's hands. Additionally, the high number of corners Arsenal won did not translate into real scoring opportunities.
Challenges posed by Arsenal's squad depth
Arsenal's extensive squad and the arrival of star signings have created a challenge of managing player rotation and keeping everyone content. With a squad that was built for a busy Champions League campaign, finding enough playing time for all quality players will be difficult. The team's size could lead to players becoming unsettled, and in the January transfer window, some departures may be expected to maintain squad harmony and balance.
Michael Cox and Art de Roche are with Sophie Penney after Arsenal’s shock loss to Liverpool on the opening day of the WSL season in front of a record league crowd at the Emirates.
In a league where the winning side often only loses a maximum of two games in their whole campaign, and after Arsenal's early Champions League exit, we look at what the Gunners need to change to save their season.
Dermot Corrigan also joins us from Madrid for an update on the situation in Spain as the drama keeps unfolding after their World Cup win.