Arsenal – West Ham United: If It Ain’t Broke, Don’t Fix It (0-2)

The Emirates Stadium expected to observe an orderly ending to the year. Yet, Arsenal failed to fulfill their duty. The armory still seems too stilted to fire on all fronts, pining for old firepower. Maybe Mikel will consult the work of his old boss about the art of evolution before it is too late.

Tactical analysis and match report by Emmanuel Adeyemi-Abere.

Arsenal arrived at Christmas Day at the top of the table for the second year in a row. At the same time in the calendar, they have only scored three more goals from four more outings than in 2022 and the joint fifth best tally this campaign. What has stood out has been a defense that only Liverpool rivals for conceding just 16 times this season. The hosts are hailing their success from an unsung lineage, inheriting the former centerpiece to the plans of a father figure in the development of their leader.

Doubt David Moyes at your peril. Many had disapproved when the stalwart of the English top flight reprised his role as the manager of West Ham United near the end of 2019. However, happiness has abounded for most of his four years at the helm. Conference League glory has capped ventures on . . .