It’s the time of year when Arsenal fans usually hold their breath.
Cold winter nights have a way of exposing cracks in north London campaigns, and December has often been a cruel month for the Gunners.
Dropping points at Hill Dickinson Stadium against Everton could have been the start of yet another familiar slump.
Past seasons remind us: losses to Fulham, West Ham, Aston Villa, and draws against Everton and Fulham in December have become too predictable.
Victory Secures Breathing Space for Arsenal
Instead, Arsenal managed to shift the narrative, albeit narrowly.
Viktor Gyokeres’ penalty sealed a 1-0 win, keeping the team on course.
Everton supporters will feel hard done by, with referee Sam Barrott not awarding a penalty after William Saliba’s accidental kick on Thierno Barry.
Still, Arsenal struck the post twice and could have extended their advantage under different circumstances.
Lessons Learned as Christmas Approaches
With Brighton and Villa still to come this month, the foundations for a more resilient December have been laid.
Premier League glory is a marathon, not a sprint, but December has been Arsenal’s stumbling block.
Top at Christmas for the third time in four years is impressive on paper, but Arteta knows that avoiding the pitfalls of the past is vital if this campaign is to maintain momentum.
The Pressure Cooker of Manchester City
The victory felt even sweeter knowing Manchester City had already beaten West Ham earlier in the day, briefly moving to the top of the table.
For Arsenal, that added pressure in Merseyside was palpable.
Memories of past capitulations against Pep Guardiola’s side, particularly in 2022-23 when the Gunners led for 248 days, linger in the psyche. Psychological scars don’t fade easily, and avoiding a wobble now is crucial for sustaining their title challenge.
Odegaard’s Leadership Shines Through
Central to Arsenal’s resilience is Martin Odegaard.
His selflessness, gifting Gyokeres the penalty, reflected the same instinct he showed for Kai Havertz in September 2023.
While Gyokeres hasn’t endured a goalless drought like Havertz, he has faced scrutiny following inconsistent performances since returning from injury.
Odegaard’s gesture not only boosted Gyokeres’ confidence but reinforced team cohesion, highlighting why he wears the captain’s armband.
Signs of a Midfield Revival
Odegaard’s influence extended beyond the penalty.
After a quiet first half, he began orchestrating play, delivering sharp passes and creating opportunities, including one for Martin Zubimendi, whose effort struck the post.
Arteta praised his increased verticality in attack, noting that as Everton pressed higher, Odegaard helped exploit spaces and create openings.
Injuries may have slowed him, but there are clear signs that the creative engine is reviving.
Arteta Optimistic as Arsenal Top the Table
For now, Arsenal can head into Christmas on a high, two points clear at the summit of the Premier League.
Arteta acknowledges there’s more to come from Odegaard and the squad, but the December hoodoo has at least been stalled.
This win may not feel like a classic, but in terms of morale, momentum, and mental edge, it could prove pivotal for the remainder of the season.
Looking Ahead
The Gunners now have the chance to build on this psychological lift.
With challenging fixtures still to come and Manchester City lurking, maintaining form will be key.
If Arsenal can navigate the tricky end-of-year period successfully, this campaign might just break the pattern of past Decembers.
For Arteta, Odegaard, and the squad, the focus is clear: stay top, stay confident, and finally make December a month to remember.
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