Following yesterday’s 4-1 win over Norwich, Arsenal sit atop the Premier League table today after eight games.
It is very promising indeed for the Gunners, especially after an initial crisis on the opening day when Aston Villa took all three points at the Emirates and fans were baying for Arsene Wenger’s blood. It has all changed now, though, as the £42.5 signing of Mesut Ozil, coupled with the unbelievable form of Aaron Ramsey, has completely rejuvenated the team.
Is it too early to talk of Arsenal as title contenders? Remember, this isn’t the first time they have enjoyed a strong start to a season only to capitulate when the going got a little tough. But I think that the signing of Ozil was a very big moment for the club as it gave the opportunity to finally flex their financial muscle and bringing in a player of such quality has boosted everybody’s confidence.
It might just be Arsenal’s year. Manchester United are experiencing some growing pains as David Moyes continues to struggle, Manchester City aren’t exactly struggling but their away form has been terrible and Jose Mourinho’s Chelsea don’t look like world beaters just yet. The race for the Premier League crown is wide open.
Whether or not Wenger’s men are the real deal will be tested over the coming two months as they have a series of challenging tasks. A trip to Old Trafford in November beckons as does a visit of currently third-placed Liverpool. December sees them travel to Manchester to face City before Chelsea make the short journey from West to North London.
This may seem like a host of very big tests, but if Arsenal can come through that difficult period relatively unscathed than they will be taken very seriously as title contenders. Some may bemoan the lack of depth in their squad but Olivier Giroud has managed to stay fit and in fine form so far and fans will be praying it stays that way.
They are expecting a few players back soon, too, including Lukas Podolski, Theo Walcott and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain. The upcoming two months are crucial for Arsenal and it will be intruiging to see how they handle the pressure of being on top of the pile.
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