Arsenal travel to Everton on Saturday evening with their Premier League title credentials under intense scrutiny, following a worrying dip in away form that has allowed Manchester City to overtake them at the summit.
Gunners' Road Struggles Threaten Title Charge
After a 2-0 victory at Burnley in early November sent them seven points clear, Mikel Arteta's side were being tipped as champions-in-waiting. However, their campaign has since stuttered on the road. A last-gasp draw at Sunderland, a failure to beat ten-man Chelsea, and a damaging late defeat at Aston Villa have punctured their momentum.
The situation worsened this afternoon as Manchester City's 3-0 win over West Ham propelled them above Arsenal in the table. The Gunners now sit second, one point behind City, having played a game less. Their unconvincing, fortune-aided win over bottom club Wolverhampton Wanderers last weekend has only amplified concerns that their challenge is unravelling.
Everton's Unpredictable Challenge at Bramley-Moore Dock
The Hill Dickinson presents a historically difficult venue for Arsenal to rediscover their winning touch. Since a 5-2 win under Arsène Wenger in late 2017, their record at Everton is poor: one win, two draws, and four losses. A glimmer of hope comes from a victory there in September 2023 and a draw last season, making them unbeaten in their last two visits.
Everton, however, embody unpredictability. They have shown streetwise grit at Old Trafford and style against Nottingham Forest, but have also suffered miserable home capitulations to Newcastle and Tottenham. David Moyes's side will be without two key performers: the injured Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Iliman Ndiaye, who is at the Africa Cup of Nations.
All to Play For in Saturday Night Showdown
Despite their troubles, Arsenal have only lost twice in all competitions this season. A win at Bramley-Moore Dock would send them back to the Premier League's summit just before Christmas. For Everton, comfortably mid-table, the pressure is less intense. They will look to build on a promising run of two wins and a creditable defeat at Chelsea.
Kick-off for this crucial Premier League fixture is at 8pm GMT.
