Roy Keane, the former Manchester United captain, has expressed doubts over Arsenal’s ability to win the Premier League title this season, particularly after their recent 1-1 draw with Manchester United at Old Trafford. Keane, known for his sharp analysis of the game, believes that the result signals deeper issues within the Arsenal squad, and has voiced concerns about their mentality, particularly in their pursuit of a Premier League title.
Arsenal’s failure to secure all three points against Manchester United means they have now fallen 15 points behind league leaders Liverpool, further dampening their hopes of winning the league this season. This result is yet another instance where Arsenal has faltered after a strong start to the campaign, a pattern that has been all too familiar over the past few seasons. Despite showing early promise, Arsenal have struggled to maintain their momentum, a trend that Keane feels will prevent them from challenging for the title.
Keane is particularly skeptical about manager Mikel Arteta’s ability to guide the team to the Premier League crown, citing a lack of evidence to suggest that the current squad is capable of overcoming the challenges posed by more experienced title contenders such as Manchester City and Liverpool. The United legend questioned Arteta’s managerial abilities, pointing to the fact that while Arsenal have come close in recent years, they have yet to cross the finish line.
“What makes you think the manager can do it? They’ve got close over the last few years, but City will be strong next year, and I’m sure Liverpool will be too,” Keane said. He was quick to point out that Arsenal’s lack of mental fortitude has been one of the reasons for their inability to secure a title in recent seasons. Keane’s comments reflect a belief that Arsenal’s mentality is not yet at the level required to consistently challenge for top honors.
A key area of concern for Keane is Arsenal’s attacking options. While Arteta has built a team with plenty of flair and creativity, the absence of a reliable striker capable of scoring 20+ goals per season has been a glaring issue. Keane noted that even if the club were to bring in a new striker, it might be too late, given the strength of their rivals. Both Manchester City and Liverpool are expected to improve next season, and Arsenal’s lack of ruthlessness in front of goal could ultimately cost them.
“I don’t think getting a striker in who’ll score 20 goals a season will necessarily be the difference. They’re going to look to improve, Pep will bounce back, and I think Liverpool will be stronger next season,” Keane commented. He emphasized that while challenging for the title is commendable, Arsenal must be focused on winning it, not just being competitive. The team has shown they can contend, but that final push to claim the top spot has been elusive.
In addition to their attacking deficiencies, Keane pointed to Arsenal’s mental resilience, or lack thereof, as another major issue. Despite some progress in recent years, he believes that when Arsenal are faced with adversity, particularly when they are behind in games, they struggle to maintain composure and focus. Keane believes that this mentality must change if they are to take the next step as a team.
“There would’ve been frustration from the last few years they didn’t get over the line, or get a cup or whatever it might be. They’ve lost that momentum,” Keane observed after Arsenal’s disappointing draw with United. He expressed his disappointment with their performance, stating that it was far from good enough, especially given the expectations placed on the team.
Keane’s analysis reflects a broader critique of Arsenal’s inability to maintain consistency throughout the season. While the team has shown flashes of quality and potential, their failure to overcome key challenges has left them trailing in the title race. With Liverpool dominating at the top and Manchester City likely to strengthen further, Arsenal faces an uphill battle to bridge the gap.
Currently, Arsenal sit second in the Premier League table with 55 points, a considerable distance behind Liverpool, who lead with 70 points. Despite this, Keane feels that the next step for the Gunners is crucial if they are to finally take the leap and win the title, they need to address the mental and tactical deficiencies that continue to hold them back.
