Arsenal's Title Ambitions Remain Unfulfilled

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta claimed on the eve of this season that he wanted his side to "attack the title" rather than defend it, as reported by ESPN Soccer. This statement has been confirmed by the source.

Arsenal's impressive squad depth was on show once more Sunday as Noni Madueke's deflected 80th-minute winner secured a hard-fought 1-0 win at Nottingham Forest. However, the Gunners' performance was far from convincing, with just one shot on target from 75% possession. This lack of attacking flair has left many questioning whether Arsenal are truly ready to "attack the title" as Arteta desires.

The Gunners' only defeat this season came at Brighton prior to the international break, and results offer Arteta an easy counter to any suggestion they had to regain their momentum in three matches since. However, Sunday's game was an example of the sort of word-play Arteta likes, where he challenged the inherent caution in defending the title and urged his players to go on the front foot in search of more silverware.

Arsenal laid the groundwork in deals for Morgan Rogers, Vinícius Júnior, and Julián Álvarez in vain, and Christos Tzolis' current hamstring injury has left a void in the team's attacking line. Arteta is consequently left to shuffle what he must feel is an incomplete pack, with left wing remaining an issue identified all summer. The goal came from that flank, courtesy of Noni Madueke, but it was a rare show of directness and purpose from the young winger.

The end is currently justifying the means, with Arsenal having 18 points from seven matches. Only twice -- and not since 2007-08 -- have Arsenal had more after seven games in Premier League history. Arteta's version of dominance is to suffocate an opponent into submission, but neutrals are entitled to expect more this time, especially given Arteta's declaration before a ball was kicked.

Arsenal's next match is against Manchester United at the Emirates Stadium on October 23.

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