“Arsenal Are Losing Their Identity,” Says Theo Walcott As He Questions Arsenal’s Focus After Newcastle

Former Arsenal forward Theo Walcott has expressed his concerns about the club’s current form, suggesting they are straying from the identity that made them so admired. His comments came after Arsenal’s disappointing 2-0 loss to Newcastle United in the Carabao Cup, a match that exposed some glaring weaknesses in their gameplay.

Walcott, now a pundit, was critical of Arsenal’s apparent shift in priorities. “What worries me is that they’re getting excited about set-pieces,” he remarked. “Arsenal is a club built on fluid, attacking football, and that seems to be missing right now.”

The former England international highlighted Arsenal’s second-half performance against Newcastle as a particular cause for concern. “It was lackluster,” he said. “The players seemed nervous, and the crowd could sense it.”

Walcott suggested that the team’s lack of confidence has led to a departure from their trademark style of play. Arsenal, under Mikel Arteta, had previously showcased dynamic, free-flowing football, coming tantalizingly close to winning the Premier League last season. However, recent performances have leaned heavily on set-pieces rather than open play.

This change in strategy, Walcott believes, is a sign of deeper issues. “It feels like they’re playing without freedom or creativity,” he said. “Set-pieces are important, but they shouldn’t be the backbone of a team like Arsenal.”

In the Newcastle match, Arsenal’s inability to break down their opponent’s resolute defense was evident. Without key players in attack and lacking the creativity to carve out clear opportunities, they looked a shadow of the side that thrilled fans last season.

The absence of their hallmark style has left supporters questioning the team’s direction. Arsenal, once renowned for their attacking verve, now appear hesitant and overly reliant on structured plays. Walcott’s comments reflect a sentiment shared by many fans who long for the return of their team’s vibrant football.

Pressure is mounting on Mikel Arteta to address these concerns. While the Spaniard has made significant progress with the team, including building a squad capable of challenging for top honors, this recent dip in form has raised eyebrows.

Walcott’s critique wasn’t just about the team’s tactical choices. He also pointed to the psychological aspect of Arsenal’s struggles. “Confidence is a huge part of football,” he said. “When players don’t believe in themselves, it shows in their performances.”

The upcoming fixtures will provide Arsenal with a chance to turn things around, but the road ahead is tough. With matches against top-tier opponents on the horizon, the Gunners need to rediscover their identity quickly.

For Walcott, the solution lies in returning to basics. “Arsenal is at its best when playing with freedom and fluidity,” he insisted. “They need to focus on what made them successful in the first place.”

This isn’t the first time Arsenal’s style of play has come under scrutiny. Over the years, the club has faced periods of transition and criticism, but they’ve often emerged stronger by staying true to their footballing philosophy.

Arteta’s challenge now is to strike a balance between tactical pragmatism and expressive football. Fans will be watching closely to see if the team can rise to the occasion and reignite their season.

Despite the criticism, there’s hope within the Arsenal camp. The squad is packed with talent, and with the right adjustments, they have the potential to return to their best.

For now, though, Walcott’s words serve as a stark reminder of the high expectations that come with representing Arsenal. The pressure is on to prove that the Gunners haven’t lost their way.

The spotlight remains firmly on Arteta and his players. Can they recapture the essence of what makes Arsenal unique? Only time will tell.