"It doesn't feel good", says Arteta after falling behind in the title race post Nottingham Forest stalemate

Following the draw against Nottingham Forest, critics have once again targeted Arsenal’s tactics and on-field behavior. The Gunners struggled to find any inspiration in the match, managing just one shot on target, which came from their new signing, Calafiori, in an otherwise dull encounter. Speaking about the result, Mikel Arteta admitted that it "did not feel good." With the draw and dropped points in the 27th gameweek, Arsenal now find themselves 13 points behind the league leaders, with a game in hand. To the press, Arteta stated:

It doesn't feel good

Talking about the intention before they headed to City Ground, Mikel Arteta mentioned that the team showed unquestionable character, with the players continuously pushing to win the game. However, they fell short of finding the winning goal. The Spaniard also noted that the team tried different ways while dominating possession. Despite this, he acknowledged that they lacked the spark and final pass needed to break down the defense of a well-organized team. Arteta urged his side to take more shots on target in upcoming matches. Mikel Arteta said:

We're here to win. But we showed unquestionable character, how much we wanted it and tried

We dominated the game. We tried in many different ways. We insisted but lacked that spark, that final pass to unlock a well organised team. We have to generate more shots on target

What is the major reason behind Arsenal not being able to muster the win in the recent games?

It is evident that Arsenal are lacking firepower in attack, with the likes of Gabriel Jesus, Kai Havertz, Bukayo Saka, and Gabriel Martinelli sidelined due to injury. The club had an opportunity to sign a striker in the January transfer window but failed to make any major moves, a decision that has significantly impacted the team’s fortunes in recent competitions. Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus are out for the rest of the season whereas Saka might return in April. 

Who are Arsenal playing next? 

With Arsenal ruled out of the FA Cup, Arsenal will shift their focus to their UEFA Champions League first leg against PSV on 4th March.