Just a month ago, Mikel Arteta, Arsenal head coach was rumoured to be in the firing line after West Brom had fired Slaven Bilic.
The former Arsenal captain, had seen his team fail to win in many trials. His star forward Pierre – Emerick Aubameyang looking lost for ideas in various matches.
It all just seemed so difficult for Arteta and this was few months after he had won the FA Cup and steered them to UEFA Europa League group stage. So what was happening?
Arteta had brought Willian from Chelsea on a three year deal, with the Brazillian stating that he wants to win the Champions League with Arsenal.
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The gaffer had also brought in midfield dynamo, Thomas Partey to shore up the midfield. But it seemed like nothing seem to be working and the only way out is out the door.
Then came Bukayo Saka, Eddie Smith Rowe and Martinelli who made sure Arteta would go home happy on Boxing day.
The relief on Mikel Arteta’s face was visible as he reacted with a face of relief when Lacazette scored the penalty from Reece James foul on Kieran Tierney, showing how important it was to the Spanish tactician.
That pleasure was doubled by Granit Xhaka’s freekick goal, before the impressive Bukayo Saka would make it safe.
Since then it has been three wins on the bounce, with the Gunners seemingly playing cautiously yet with a certain swagger.
Arsenal have now been climbing up, with the North London club just 3 points off Chelsea who were highflying at the beginning of the season. It all suddenly seem so rosy for Mikel Arteta.
