Arsenal Archives: 01/2017

After a last-gasp winner in stoppage time helped Arsenal to a uncharacteristically ugly victory over Burnley back at the start of October, questions have already been asked in regards to their title credentials.

Olivier Giroud has publicly claimed the fact that his scorpion kick goal on New Year’s Day against Crystal Palace was better than Manchester United creative midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan’s goal against Sunderland a week prior.

Arsenal midfielder Mohamed Elneny is currently away on international duty with his native Egypt, as they aim to secure a record eighth Africa Cup of Nations trophy this year.

According to a recent report in the Times, three Championship sides are all interested in signing Chuba Akpom on loan until the end of the current campaign.

It was a long-awaited return to first-team action for Danny Welbeck on Saturday evening against Preston North End, eight months after his last senior appearance during Arsenal’s 2-2 away draw against Manchester City.

Strong, intimidating centre-backs rarely make the switch from arch-rivals Tottenham to Arsenal.

Since his £2m move from Bolton Wanderers last summer, Rob Holding has settled into life in England’s top flight well when called upon.

Squad rotation was always likely with Arsenal’s FA Cup clash away against Championship opposition, and Ainsley Maitland-Niles made his third start for the senior side this season after impressing in previous fixtures.

Arsenal face Preston North End in one of this weekend’s FA Cup third round ties and after a frantic fightback from a three-goal deficit on Tuesday against Bournemouth, they’ll be eager for a much smoother ride against the Championship outfit.

Considering the confusion and surprise that his move had on many when announced in January two years ago now, it’s clear to see that Krystian Bielik has progressed well under the radar in Arsenal’s youth ranks since his £2.7m move.