Mikel Arteta’s side have experience of being top of the table but have been unable to finish the job in previous seasons
All the signs point to it finally being Arsenal’s season. But given that they have spent almost 800 days top of the table since last being champions in 2004, nothing will be taken for granted at this stage. After an outlay of more than £250m in the summer, Mikel Arteta has a formidable squad that has been able to cope with injuries to important players such as Kai Havertz and Martin Ødegaard – a problem that derailed them in three successive runner-up finishes.
There is also a new steely determination epitomised by their meagre defence, which has conceded three goals in 13 games in all competitions and only one from open play. A group that has learned and grown from its experiences is highly motivated to go one better, starting with their manager. The question is whether Liverpool or Manchester City can recover to sustain a challenge that could make Arsenal nervous, especially if Viktor Gyökeres continues to struggle for goals. They have managed only five from open play and are heavily reliant on set pieces, although stopping Gabriel Magalhães and co is easier said than done. Ed Aarons
