Arteta claims Arsenal are superior this season, but is he kidding himself?

Arsenal's Gabriel Martinelli says the team needs time to adapt to Mikel Arteta's tactical changes after a disappointing draw.

In a recent interview, Gabriel Martinelli acknowledged that Arsenal's players need time to adjust to the changes happening within the team. However, despite earning seven points out of a possible nine, there is a lack of optimism surrounding the club.

The fallout from their 2-2 draw against Fulham has been blown out of proportion. Although it may have felt like a defeat, especially as Arsenal were leading 2-1 when Fulham's Calvin Bassey received a red card, it wasn't actually a loss.

The main reason for Arsenal's failure to secure a win against Fulham was the impressive performance of Joao Palhinha. It is crucial for Fulham to keep hold of the Portugal international, as he was outstanding in the match.

Mikel Arteta, Arsenal's manager, claims that his team is "10 times" better than they were last season when they narrowly missed out on the title. However, based on their performances in the opening three games of the season, it is hard to believe Arteta's statement. Arsenal has been unconvincing and has yet to show significant improvement.

It is important to remember that players are not robots. The emotional impact of their failed title challenge from last season still lingers, affecting their current performances. Additionally, Arteta's decision to deploy inverted full-backs, with Thomas Partey starting at right-back and moving inside during attacking phases, has also contributed to Arsenal's struggles.

Gabriel Martinelli has emphasized the need for Arsenal to adapt to Arteta's new tactical approach. However, Fulham captain Tom Cairney admitted that they were aware of Arsenal's tactical decisions before the game, suggesting that returning to last season's approach may benefit the team.

There have also been concerns over team selection, particularly regarding Gabriel's future and position in the team. Arteta insists that Gabriel's absence from the starting XI is a tactical decision, but there remains uncertainty over whether he will stay at Arsenal beyond the transfer deadline.

Despite the skepticism surrounding Gabriel's future, Arsenal has been preparing for the possibility of signing a new defender if they receive an offer they can't refuse. Crystal Palace's Marc Guehi is among their top targets.

If Gabriel remains an Arsenal player for their upcoming match against Manchester United, it would make sense for him to return to the starting XI, allowing Partey to move back to midfield. However, this raises questions about the role of Kai Havertz, who has faced criticism from Arsenal fans.

Injuries have also played a part in Arsenal's struggles, with Jurrien Timber suffering a serious knee injury and Declan Rice facing a minor calf problem during the preseason. On a positive note, Gabriel Jesus made a late substitute appearance after recovering from a knee procedure.

While there are reasons for concern, it is important not to view the situation as a crisis. If Arsenal can defeat Manchester United, they will have earned 10 points out of 12, which is a respectable start to the season.