Arsenal journeyed to Craven Cottage to confront Fulham, aiming to secure victory and regain the top spot. This quest occurred just before Liverpool hosted Newcastle United in the early 2024 fixtures.
Despite a year marked by significant progress, Arsenal concluded 2023 on a disappointing note.
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Their stint at the top of the Premier League table during Christmas, achieved after a 1-1 draw with Liverpool at Anfield, was a highlight.
After a home loss to West Ham, Arsenal experienced another unexpected defeat away at Fulham on New Year’s Eve.
This places the Gunners in 4th position. While they remain in the title race, their chance to establish a lead over champions Manchester City, absent due to their Club World Cup participation in Saudi Arabia, has slipped away.
Bukayo Saka’s recent struggles have contributed to Arsenal’s downturn, with the team overly dependent on the performance of the English winger.
Despite an early goal, Saka was notably below par at Craven Cottage.
Arteta, known for his occasional outbursts, was spotted gesturing emphatically and vocally expressing his frustration toward the winger in the second half.
Although the Spanish manager is often animated on the sidelines, Saka seldom becomes the target of his ire.
However, reports from football.london suggest that Arteta was livid with Saka’s imprecise passing and unleashed his frustration on the winger after a intercepted pass in the second half.
Saka attempted a cross-field pass to Gabriel Martinelli, but it was underhit, leading to a Fulham counterattack against the Gunners.
