Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is facing mounting pressure after former Premier League striker Alan Shearer warned that failure to win the title this season could cost him his job. But can Arteta navigate the season without another dramatic collapse?
The debate intensified following Arsenal’s dramatic 2-2 draw away at Wolves, where the Gunners surrendered a two-goal lead despite facing a side battling near the bottom of the table.
Title Race Nerves Growing
Arsenal appeared in control after early goals put them firmly in charge. However, a late defensive mix-up allowed Wolves to snatch a stoppage-time equaliser, dealing a major blow to Arsenal’s momentum. Can Arteta ensure his side keeps composure in crucial moments?
The result leaves Arteta’s side only five points clear of defending champions Manchester City, who have the chance to reduce that gap further.
Speaking on The Rest Is Football podcast, Shearer delivered a blunt assessment.
“If he doesn’t win the league, he might not be at Arsenal,” Shearer said. “After the chances they’ve had and the money spent, they have to win it.”
Style Under Scrutiny
Former England international Gary Lineker questioned whether Arsenal need to show greater aggression in decisive moments, asking if they must “grow a pair” in high-pressure situations. Could a shift in mindset be what saves Arteta’s season?
Micah Richards added that Arteta has adapted his style in pursuit of results, but warned that pragmatic football will only be justified if it brings silverware.
“He needs to get over the line for his own sake,” Richards explained.
Champions League Lifeline?
Despite domestic concerns, Arsenal’s Champions League form offers hope. The North London side have been flawless in Europe this season, winning all eight of their league phase matches. Could European glory be Arteta’s ultimate saving grace?
Lineker suggested European success could change the narrative entirely, while Shearer agreed that mentally, winning the Champions League might be an easier barrier to overcome than ending their long Premier League drought.
Big Weeks Ahead
With a Carabao Cup final and potential Champions League knockouts on the horizon, Arteta’s future could hinge on how his team handles the decisive months ahead.
Arsenal are chasing a first Premier League title in over two decades. But with recent stumbles raising fresh doubts, the pressure is now firmly on Arteta: can he finally deliver the league triumph fans have been waiting 22 years for?
What do you think Arsenal fans? Should Arteta get another chance if they finish second again, or is it time for a new manager? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!
