Arsenal now top the Premier League in stat which may show critics are wrong

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Arsenal have been criticised at times for their attacking displays this season, as Mikel Arteta’s side have put more emphasis on defending.

Arsenal statistically have the best defence in the Premier League, but rank low for big chances created, with some fans frustrated that the Gunners are not attacking with the same gusto as they did this time last year.

The departure of Granit Xhaka has affected Arsenal’s chance creation, whilst blame has also been assigned to strikers Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah, with some claiming that Arsenal need a new striker in the January transfer window.

However, a stat has emerged which may show that Arsenal have been better going forward than people think.

How has Arsenal’s attacking play been this season?

A stat from WhoScored has now emerged, which has highlighted that Arsenal are leading the Premier League for the most touches in the opposition box.

Arsenal have totalled 438 touches in the opposition box in 12 league games, four more than Tottenham Hotspur on 434, Chelsea on 423, and Manchester City on 407.

This highlights how Arsenal are dominating possession high up the pitch, and how good they are in build-up play and reaching the final third, whilst also showing that their attacking players are able to make plenty of entries into the box.

This is also reflected by the fact that Arsenal have been awarded six penalties this season, again more than anyone else. Arsenal’s attackers can enter the box, and when they do, the opposition are forced into committing fouls.

How can Arsenal further improve their attack?

It is clear that the problem lies once Arsenal get to the final third, rather than the issue being in build-up play.

The loss of Xhaka, who provided 14 goals and assists last season, as well as injuries and a dip in form for Martin Odegaard, have meant that there is far less goal threat from deeper positions.

Kai Havertz’s disappointing start also means that Arsenal have much less threat with him than Xhaka, as the German’s struggles when it comes to shooting has meant that despite his side having the ball in attacking areas, they struggle to convert possession to goals with him in midfield.

The return of Odegaard and Gabriel Jesus from injury should now help Arsenal regain their mojo in attack, and when Emile Smith Rowe eventually returns, he could be the key to adding more goal threat from midfield.

Arsenal are experiencing teething problems with their new-look midfield, but are still dominating games, are one point off the top of the table and also pushing forward more than anyone else.