Pressure is starting to build on Arsenal to earn results fast in the Premier League as Mikel Arteta’s side fell to defeat at the hands of Newcastle United.
The Gunners are now three games without a win in the division after losing to Bournemouth before a draw to Liverpool.
Newcastle was always going to be a tough trip and the side found that out quickly as Alexander Isak put the Magpies into the lead.
Arsenal were unable to respond as yet another flat performance left many supporters questioning whether a Premier League title charge is too far away already this season.
There was some fortune in that Manchester City dropped points shortly after, though Liverpool lead the way after another victory.
With that pressure starting to heap onto Mikel Arteta, there are questions over whether it’s time for a change at the Emirates Stadium.
While there’s little indication that is desired, there is a clear need for improvement and a chance to win some silverware soon.
So with that said, Arsenal Insider experts have given their thoughts on the current situation surrounding the Arsenal manager.
- READ MORE: What ‘#ArtetaOut’ trending on social media now means the Arsenal boss must do after Newcastle loss
Mikel Arteta sacking decision
Our writers are Arsenal Insider have given their thoughts on whether Mikel Arteta should be under pressure to deliver at the club this season.
Rosie Tudball
No – Arteta shouldn’t be sacked.
Sacking Arteta would be ludicrous, but that doesn’t mean that the manager doesn’t deserve to be challenged.
The Spaniard built Arsenal back up but is at risk of letting his legacy become about resurgence rather than success.
We all know that this isn’t Arteta’s ceiling with this squad but change is absolutely necessary if Arsenal are to continue their claim to the title race.
This season, silverware is an absolute must, as is a top-three finish. For me, winning the league is already out of reach but, putting together a strong Champions League campaign and reaching cup finals is the minimum expectation from this point.
Will Jones
I cannot see any good reason to part ways with Arteta at this stage. The club have made remarkable progress under his management.
Whilst this season has been frustrating so far, there have been mitigating factors, such as injuries to key players.
What’s more, a slight dip in form might have been anticipated this season. Matching the pace set by Manchester City year-on-year is exhausting.
Liverpool, under Jurgen Klopp, would have a less competitive campaign every few years, before roaring back into contention the next time around.
All I expect and would demand from Arsenal this season is that they truly compete, and aren’t ultimately the architects of their own downfall.
If we are to miss out on the title again, at least make the eventual champions really earn it, don’t just hand them a clear run to the crown.
Luke Thrower
It’s clearly time for Mikel Arteta to deliver, but to call time on his career at Arsenal after a run of three games without a win would be wholly unfair.
The manager has built up the squad to where they are now, so he must be given time to execute his plan at its full potential.
That said, it is time for the Gunners to win things with a squad that is now reaching top gear in terms of recruitment and the squad as a whole.
Plenty of money has been spent and there is a lot of ability there to get a piece of silverware over the line without excuses.
One thing to be cautious of is the pursuit of glory – ask Manchester United fans if they’re happy after winning two trophies under Erik ten Hag if an example is needed to show that winning cups isn’t everything.
In all, a Champions League finish is the bare minimum expected alongside some deep runs into cup competitions.
Anything regarding the Premier League title should be held off for judgment until the end of the season.
Receive a digest of our best Arsenal content each week direct to your mailbox
