We are seven games into the new Premier League season at the time of writing, and Arsenal have been installed as the odds-on favourites to be crowned English champions for the first time since their famous Invincibles in the early 2000s.
The Gunners have a record of five wins, a draw and one defeat at this stage, leaving them one point clear of Liverpool, who suffered their second defeat in a row to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge before the international break. At times, Mikel Arteta’s men have looked more assured than Arne Slot’s defending champions, and could finally go from bridesmaids for the last three years—finishing runner-up to Manchester City twice and Liverpool last year—to the bride.
For those looking to back them, there are plenty of free sports bets available across the major bookmakers. But can Arsenal really cope with the pressure of being favourites? Let’s take a closer look.
Leaning on Senior Figures
The Arsenal squad might only have an average age of around 25, but it’s an experienced group despite that. Declan Rice, now in his tenth year of top-flight football, has nearly 300 Premier League appearances to his name at just 26. He’s become a key player for the Gunners both on and off the field, providing leadership and consistency.
Gabriel and William Saliba form one of the most assured centre-back partnerships in the division, combining physical presence with composure on the ball. Even Bukayo Saka, still only 24, recently made his 200th Premier League appearance—a testament to how quickly he has matured into one of the league’s most reliable performers.
Captain Martin Ødegaard, meanwhile, is in his fifth season with the club and continues to set the standard in terms of work ethic and creativity. While this Arsenal side may still lack silverware, the experience, chemistry, and quality within the squad are clear indicators that they possess the tools to become Premier League winners.
Mikel Arteta: Now or Never
It’s beginning to feel like a pivotal season for Mikel Arteta. The Spaniard is now the tenth-longest-serving manager in Premier League history, having taken charge of Arsenal in 2019. His FA Cup triumph in 2020 remains his only major piece of silverware, and while he’s guided the team to three consecutive runner-up finishes across competitions, the absence of a league title remains a glaring omission.
Arteta’s methods have been questioned at times—particularly his tactical rigidity and substitutions—but his belief in process and standards has transformed the club’s culture. Arsenal now play with identity and resilience, traits they often lacked post-Wenger.
This season, though, it’s about results. Arteta knows that coming close again won’t be enough. Winning the Premier League is the next logical step, and his ability to manage the mounting pressure will be crucial in determining whether Arsenal can cross that line.
Summer Signings Need to Step Up
For all the continuity within the squad, Arsenal’s summer spending spree—totalling nearly £300 million—was designed to turn potential into dominance. Yet, several big names are still finding their feet.
Viktor Gyökeres arrived with the reputation of being the final piece in Arsenal’s attacking puzzle, a striker capable of providing the cutting edge that’s been missing in decisive moments. However, with just three goals in seven games and none in his last six, he’s yet to live up to expectations.
Noni Madueke has shown glimpses of his ability but remains without a goal or assist in five league appearances, while Eberechi Eze—signed late from Crystal Palace—has looked lively, contributing a couple of assists and a goal in the EFL Cup. With Ødegaard sidelined for six weeks, Eze will be vital in linking midfield and attack.
If these new recruits can hit form and take some of the creative and scoring burden off Saka and others on the side, Arsenal’s title credentials will strengthen significantly. But if their inconsistency continues, Arteta’s men could again find themselves chasing rather than leading come springtime.
*Stats are correct at the time of writing.