Arsenal stood at the top of the Premier League for long periods of time last season and in fact they were the team that lead the table for the most number of days, but eventually had to bite the dust. Ultimately they won the FA Cup but still remained fourth in the Premier League. What they missed dearly was a top notch striker who would poach in the goals when needed and stand up for the big games. Certainly they got Mesut Ozil for a huge sum of money at the beginning of the window, but that did not turn out to be sufficient enough. Arsene Wenger needs to have a striker this time around and go for the Premier League glory. But for that Arsenal need to win the crucial ties that they failed to do last time around. Here are five important fixtures that would make or break the season for The Gunners.
Everton vs Arsenal, 23rd August
A good start to the season is crucial and the game against Everton can make way for a brilliant season. It is the second game of the season tucked in between two tricky games against Tony Pulis’ Crystal Palace at home and newly promoted Leicester City away at King Power Stadium, and apparently Arsenal will enter into the final week of the transfer window.
Everton are a reinforced team under Roberto Martinez and a win against them would boost the morale of the side early in the campaign. Everton did really well against Arsenal last season managing a draw at the Emirates and humbled them at Goodison park with a 3-0 win, and Wenger needs to change the equation this time around.
Chelsea vs Arsenal, 4th October
Jose Mourinho’s side thrashed Arsenal at Stamford Bridge last season and ended their trophy dreams. Wenger’s side would be hungry for revenge and this would be the apt match to make a statement. Winning against Chelsea would restore the confidence of the team and would push them for the title. This is also a personal battle between Jose Mourinho and Arsene Wenger and none would like to let it go just like that. If not a win, Arsenal should try and salvage atleast a point against the heavily stocked Mourinho’s Blues
Liverpool vs Arsenal, 20th December
Liverpool scored five against Arsenal and the fans could never forget the agony. They would love to present a Christmas gift to their fans with a win in the same fixture this time around. While Liverpool may not have been a serious title contender last December, you cannot expect the same this season. Liverpool would certainly still have the best striking partnership in the league and Arsenal have to outscore them up front.
December is usually a dreaded month for the Gunners clouded with Christmas fixtures, where they tend to lose points. But if they are to keep their title hopes till the end of the season, these crucial away fixtures play a vital role in deciding them.
Tottenham Hotspur vs Arsenal, 7th February
The North London Derby is always an exciting fixture and next season would not be an exception. Tottenham are getting an exciting manager in Mario Pochettino and they should be able to make a mark with the kind of team that they have. This is the season which they should be pushing in for the number fourth spot and it is up to Arsenal to stop them. Traditionally Arsenal have always been the superior side in the Derby and the fans would compromise with nothing else but a thumping win.
Manchester United vs Arsenal, 16th May
Recovering from a disastrous season United would throw all their weight behind the team and would hope for a better season this time around. They have already managed to bring in Louis Van Gaal as their new manager, who has a tremendous record in different parts of the world. If Arsenal are in the mix for the title race by May, then the match against United at Old Trafford will play a major role in their destiny.
Check out Arsenal’s complete fixture list here