Try GOLD - Free
Gunners' defence is the strongest weapon in their Arsenal
The Straits Times
|September 22, 2024
Arsenal's current circumstances dictate that their defence needs to be the reincarnation of the fabled five, who won titles under George Graham and Arsene Wenger.
On Sept 15, and again four days later in Bergamo, Arsenal showed off what has become their strongest suit. No team in European football currently match their level of defensive organisation.
Even when conceding a penalty to Atalanta in the Champions League, goalkeeper David Raya, as the video assistant referee (VAR) deliberated, consulted with coaches. He subsequently saved Mateo Retegui's penalty, and next the rebound.
Arsenal will need more of the same on Sept 22 at the Etihad in a summit meeting with Manchester City that comes a little too early in the season to be decisive. That's not to say it can't be influential; a crushing win for City might wipe away any sense of a title race this season. An Arsenal win could grant the belief that this season, at last, is Mikel Arteta's time.
This story is from the September 22, 2024 edition of The Straits Times.
Subscribe to Magzter GOLD to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 10,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
MORE STORIES FROM The Straits Times
The Straits Times
AMORIM PROUD OF STICKING TO BELIEFS
Red Devils boss 'learns a lot' during rough ride as EPL side begin to turn corner at last
3 mins
November 01, 2025
The Straits Times
A school team gave back a trophy.Here's why it matters
These are kids who understand integrity and a coach who remembers winning isn't quite everything. In the old days, we called this character.
3 mins
November 01, 2025
The Straits Times
How Singapore produce can win over price-conscious consumers
Local producers and retailers must better understand consumers' psyche.
4 mins
November 01, 2025
The Straits Times
SEA Games medallist jailed for drink driving, crashing into car
SEA Games squash gold medallist Vivian Rhamanan has been sentenced to two weeks' jail, after an incident where he had been drink driving and his vehicle collided with a car travelling on the opposite lane of a road in Sembawang.
2 mins
November 01, 2025
The Straits Times
Smart packs #5 with space, comfort and efficiency
Biggest model from Chinese-German brand offers longest range among cars of its size and performance
3 mins
November 01, 2025
The Straits Times
9 in 10 young women not taking active steps to protect breast health: Poll
Ms Jamie Ng was flourishing in her career in the fashion industry, with a degree under her belt and a stable job, when she found out three years ago that she had breast cancer.
3 mins
November 01, 2025
The Straits Times
The battle for New York
A fight is brewing between Donald Trump and Zohran Mamdani.
4 mins
November 01, 2025
The Straits Times
JOURNALISM READY TO MAKE WORLD HEADLINES
Nov 1 Breeders' Cup Classic form analysis
1 mins
November 01, 2025
The Straits Times
Does the Singapore River need to change course to remain relevant?
Older generations value its role in the nation’s history and remember the area’s heyday as a nightlife hub. How can it better appeal to a younger crowd who may be going out less?
5 mins
November 01, 2025
The Straits Times
Grace Fu named among Time's 100 most influential climate leaders
Minister recognised for her efforts along with others including Pope Leo XIV
2 mins
November 01, 2025
Listen
Translate
Change font size