Arteta’s Selections Show Why Arsenal Need More Boldness to Win

Arsenal’s summer transfer window has handed Mikel Arteta arguably the deepest and most complete squad he has had since taking charge in 2019. The arrivals of Viktor Gyökeres, Martín Zubimendi, Noni Madueke, Christhian Mosquera, Eberechi Eze, and the expected addition of Piero Hincapié have elevated the quality and depth in every area of the pitch. The expectation is clear: Arsenal are no longer competitors, it’s time to win.

That is why the 1-0 defeat at Anfield against champions Liverpool has already sparked debate about whether Arteta is bold enough to unlock the full potential of his team. Sunday’s game was balanced, separated only by a stunning Dominik Szoboszlai free-kick. Yet, beyond the result, it was the Spaniard’s selection choices that raised eyebrows.

The Midfield Dilemma Without Ødegaard

With captain Martin Ødegaard unfit to start the game with the shoulder injury he picked up against Leeds United, Arteta turned to Mikel Merino to lead the midfield press. On paper, it made sense. Merino brings energy, work rate, and the tactical discipline required to disrupt Liverpool’s rhythm. But the game also cried out for creativity as Arsenal struggled to progress the ball into dangerous areas, and this is where a bolder call could have been made.

18-year-old Ethan Nwaneri seemed to be the perfect alternative, given he has been playing more centrally since the start of preseason. While the teenager lacks Merino’s experience and pressing tenacity, his ability to unlock defences with vision and flair might have given Arsenal a different edge. Selecting him would have been a gamble, but one that might have shifted the balance against a Liverpool side that thrives in chaos. 

Martinelli or Eze: Did Arteta Wait Too Long?

Another decision that drew scrutiny was the choice to start Gabriel Martinelli ahead of new signing Eze. Again, the logic was clear. Martinelli knows Arteta’s system inside out, he contributes defensively, and his chemistry with his teammates provides balance. With two other new faces, Gyökeres and Madueke, already in the frontline, Arteta may have been reluctant to disrupt the structure too much.

Yet, when Eze entered the game in the 70th minute, the contrast was clear to see. In just 20 minutes, he completed more passes than Martinelli, maintained a perfect pass completion rate, and successfully executed more dribbles, all in fewer touches. Eze immediately brought control and guile; attributes Arsenal had been missing for much of the contest and introducing him earlier might have changed the flow of the match.

Why Arteta’s Bravery Could Decide the Title Race

Arteta’s caution is understandable in the early stages of the season. Integrating multiple new signings while maintaining balance is not easy, especially against a rival as formidable as Liverpool. But this season is not about merely competing. It is about ending a 22-year wait for a Premier League title. To do that, Arsenal cannot afford to hold back.

The squad is no longer one that relies heavily on a handful of stars like Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice; depth and versatility are now strengths. Gyökeres offers a powerful, consistent goal threat. Zubimendi adds calmness and intelligence in midfield. Madueke provides pace and unpredictability out wide. Mosquera brings cover and competition at the back. Eze is the creative wildcard who can change games. And with Hincapié expected through the door before the transfer deadline, defensive options will only be stronger.

Three games into the season, there is still a long way to go. A single defeat at Anfield is not a crisis but it has highlighted a pattern in Arteta’s decision-making. Too often, he opts for safety when risk might deliver greater reward. The margins at the top are razor-thin, and bravery, both in selections and in-game adjustments will define whether Arsenal can finally topple Liverpool and Manchester City.