Just over a year ago, Arsenal turned their disappointment in domestic cup competitions into motivation. During a two-week warm-weather training camp, they regrouped and went on an impressive run, winning eight consecutive league matches.
That streak extended to an 11-game unbeaten run and 16 victories in their final 18 games. While it wasn’t enough to secure the title, it put immense pressure on Manchester City, pushing them to maintain near-perfect form.
To improve on back-to-back second-place finishes, Mikel Arteta knows his team must perform at the same high level in the final three months of this season. After a frustrating Carabao Cup exit to Newcastle United, Arsenal is once again using the schedule to their advantage.
Having departed on Thursday, the team has returned to Dubai. Their FA Cup third-round loss to Manchester United last month has given them a chance to reset before making a strong push toward the season’s conclusion.
Last year, their trip to the Middle East helped them rediscover their form and attacking creativity from the 2022/23 campaign. Now, they must do the same—though with less time to soak up the sun. The FA Cup weekend has provided them with a valuable break.
It has also given Arteta some breathing room. He has faced criticism for his recruitment decisions and domestic cup performances.
Now, with time to reflect and refocus, here’s what the manager must accomplish before Arsenal resumes their campaign with an away fixture against relegation-threatened Leicester City.
Leave a Reply