Arsenal’s lack of a traditional striker drew concern before a sudden, goal rush after their trip to Dubai. Could their success without a classic goalscorer signal a tactical shift and the answer to a long trophy drought?

Their fluid style puts the focus firmly on the ability of the entire team to score, sparking lively debates about their future prospects.

BURNLEY, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 17: Bukayo Saka of Arsenal celebrates with teammates after scoring his team's third goal during the Premier League match between Burnley FC and Arsenal FC at Turf Moor on February 17, 2024 in Burnley, England. (Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images)
BURNLEY, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 17: Bukayo Saka of Arsenal celebrates with teammates after scoring his team’s third goal during the Premier League match between Burnley FC and Arsenal FC at Turf Moor on February 17, 2024 in Burnley, England. (Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images)

Critics questioned Arsenal‘s lack of a dedicated, high-profile striker before their recent scoring surge. After their Dubai training camp, the goals are flowing freely, leading to a reassessment of this viewpoint. Can their style truly win out?

Kai Havertz addressed critics directly: “We have to stay focused because after one game without five goals, you’re gonna write we need a striker!” His point echoes a wider view among Arsenal players and fans alike: their diverse scoring threats can compensate for a classic centre-forward.

During this run, nine different players have contributed to Arsenal‘s goalscoring tally. This underscores Havertz’s belief that goals needn’t be limited to strikers: “It’s not only up to the strikers to score goals, defenders can score goals for us. That’s so important.”

BURNLEY, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 17: Leandro Trossard of Arsenal scores his team's fourth goal during the Premier League match between Burnley FC and Arsenal FC at Turf Moor on February 17, 2024 in Burnley, England. (Photo by Matt McNulty/Getty Images)
BURNLEY, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 17: Leandro Trossard of Arsenal scores his team’s fourth goal during the Premier League match between Burnley FC and Arsenal FC at Turf Moor on February 17, 2024 in Burnley, England. (Photo by Matt McNulty/Getty Images)

This tactical fluidity presents unique problems for opponents. When players from a range of positions contribute to the score sheet, predicting and shutting down specific threats becomes harder. This adaptability gives Arsenal less reliance on a single player to shoulder the goalscoring burden every game.

Of course, whether this unconventional approach can carry the Gunners consistently over a full season remains to be seen. But, for now, the stats and performances point toward a team comfortable outside the rigid “star striker” mould.

Could this approach lead to long-awaited Premier League title? It’s a journey Arsenal fans are watching with hope.