Next few weeks crucial for Arsenal’s title ambitions says Paul Merson | OneFootball

Arsenal’s steady dismantling of Nottingham Forest last weekend offered a timely reminder of their growing maturity. Even without Bukayo Saka, with Declan Rice only fit enough for the bench, and Martin Ødegaard forced off early, Mikel Arteta’s side looked composed, cohesive, and in control. The depth that Arsenal have assembled is beginning to show, and with the season entering a pivotal stretch, that strength could prove decisive.

According to Paul Merson, writing for Sky Sports, the next few weeks will be critical in determining whether Arsenal can convert promise into supremacy. The looming clash with Manchester City on 21 September feels particularly defining. As the former Arsenal and England player observed, if the Gunners can emerge unscathed from this run, “you go advantage Arsenal. They have got ample quality to win the league.”

There were further signs of growth at Anfield earlier in the campaign, where Arsenal produced perhaps their most assured performance in two decades at Liverpool’s ground. For long spells, they muted Arne Slot’s side before a moment of brilliance from Dominik Szoboszlai denied them a draw away at Anfield. Had that contest finished goalless, the narrative might already be tilting firmly in Arsenal’s favour.

Madueke’s impressive start

Arsenal’s system is also proving a fertile platform for individuals to flourish. Noni Madueke (23), for instance, has looked revitalised in red. Where Chelsea’s slower build-up often left him crowded out, Arsenal’s quick, vertical passing isolates defenders and allows him to exploit one-on-one situations. His recent goal for England against Serbia underscored his growing confidence.

Yet the coming fixtures will be the true test. Titles are not won in September, but momentum is often shaped in these early weeks. If Arsenal can sustain their assuredness and emerge from this gauntlet intact, the balance of power in the title race may tip decisively in their direction.

GFN | Finn Entwistle