I never thought we would win the title. I always thought that if we did win it, we would need to have a better defence than City, if not a better attack.
Unfortunately, our defence and our lack of control has given the opposition way too many chances post-WC and now we're being punished for it.
We have evolved from a low block back 3, to a high pressing back 4. It was inevitable there would be legacy issues whilst the squad is being a turned over. The big concern for me are that our project signings aren't proving good enough. Lokonga, Tavares, Vieira, Kiwior all feel miles away from supporting the team.
At the end of the day, last season's peak and then taper off was always likely to be predictive. We exceeded expectations last season and have done the same this season. Managing pressure and the run-in is new and crucial area that Arteta needs to get right. Peaking at the right time in the season by periodising training and managing fatigue is crucial and having a strong squad supports that immensely.
So many teams have ran away into the distance after half a season but we're facing a juggernaut. Much like 08 when United won the CL Double and C. Ronaldo had his breakthrough season, it feels probable that City and Haaland will do the same.
I get that it's easy to get carried away and get caught up in the hope but in the end, if you tempered expectations a little, this doesn't come as a complete surprise. I said a few years ago that our squad was shit, back when people hyped up Pepe and Guendouzi and I will say today that our backup players are shit. If we address the backup issues then we may just have enough, next time round.
