Arsenal are being questioned for the first time this season after losing to title rivals Manchester City.
The Gunners have slipped to second, although they can return to the summit should they win their game in hand. Defeat at the Emirates was their third game without a win, however, as Mikel Arteta is called upon to rally his troops.
Their reverse on Wednesday night means the north Londoners, who have the youngest squad in the league, must prove they have the appetite for the fight as City eye a third straight title. Kevin De Bruyne was targeted by objects as he wandered off the pitch, which has resulted in a Football Association investigation.
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Investigation begins
The FA has launched an investigation after City midfielder De Bruyne was pelted with objects by Arsenal fans on Wednesday.
De Bruyne was one of the key architect’s of City’s win at the Emirates, picking up a goal and an assist. He was also involved in an altercation with Arteta after the Arsenal manager kicked the ball away as he was trying to take a throw-in.
After being substituted for Kalvin Phillips in the 88th minute, De Bruyne had to walk around the pitch to get to the City dugout. During his walk, plastic bottles and other objects were thrown at him by angry Arsenal fans.
The FA has confirmed it will investigate the incident, which was included in referee Anthony Taylor’s report. The body will work with Arsenal to assess CCTV footage and try to identify the fans responsible. Mirror Football has contacted Arsenal to request a comment.
Henry's challenge
Arsenal legend Thierry Henry has called on his former side to show a winning mentality by picking themselves up and responding after suffering a damaging defeat by City.
It was a hugely significant result and extended the Gunners’ winless streak to four games in all competitions. That run was started by a 1-0 loss to City in the FA Cup, and Henry believes Arsenal need to dig deep and show determination to hit back in the title race.
“I thought the cup game was very significant, because it does matter when it’s against a team you’re fighting against for the title,” he said on CBS Sports.
Read Thierry Henry's full assessment here.
Martinelli's promise
Gabriel Martinelli has vowed to recapture his best form as the Brazilian forward endures something of a lull. The youngster recently penned a new deal in north London and is tipped for big things, but has endured a difficult few weeks and is determined to come out of it a better player.
Martinelli said: “I think I can improve. I think everyone in the team can improve. I always try to rewatch the game and see what my mistakes were and try to improve. It’s not going to be different with this game.
“I am going to rewatch the game and see my mistakes and try to improve for the next game. Mistakes are part of the game, and we need to nail it and try to not make them. It’s easy to say now, when you are here, but when you are on the pitch, it is so much harder.”
