Former Arsenal striker Alan Smith has delivered a bold prediction and a controversial selection call, backing the Gunners to clinch the Premier League title this season while urging manager Mikel Arteta to drop captain Martin Odegaard.
Title Hopes Remain Strong Despite Recent Stumble
Smith, speaking to Sky Sports News, expressed confidence that Arsenal can recover from what he described as a "mini wobble" to end their long wait for domestic supremacy. The Gunners' lead at the summit has been trimmed to just four points following disappointing results against Liverpool, Nottingham Forest, and most recently Manchester United.
The 3-2 defeat to United at the Emirates Stadium was particularly galling, coming after Lisandro Martinez's own goal had given Arsenal an early advantage. Patrick Dorgu and Matheus Cunha struck spectacularly to secure victory for Michael Carrick's resilient side, leaving Arteta's men under intense pressure.
"I've got to go with the Gunners," Smith declared. "It would be a major fall from grace if they didn't win at this point. They've got the best squad in the league, there's no doubt about that."
Attacking Concerns Linger Despite Defensive Solidity
While Arsenal boast the Premier League's meanest defence with just 17 goals conceded this campaign, Smith highlighted growing concerns about their attacking output. The club currently sits 17th in the league for goals scored from open play, managing just 20 such strikes.
"In an ideal world, you would want somebody you could rely upon to nick a goal when you're up against it," Smith explained. "Those players are worth their weight in gold and, at the moment, it's fair to say Arsenal haven't got one."
The former England international acknowledged Bukayo Saka's world-class ability while questioning the centre-forward options, suggesting neither Viktor Gyokeres, Kai Havertz nor Gabriel Jesus provide the consistent goal threat required of championship-winning sides.
Odegaard's Struggles Prompt Selection Shake-Up Call
Smith's most controversial recommendation centres on Arsenal's captain, Martin Odegaard. The Norwegian midfielder, once regarded among the Premier League's finest and a two-time PFA Team of the Year member, has struggled to replicate that form this season.
His ineffective performance against Manchester United prompted Arteta to substitute him after just 58 minutes, with Eberechi Eze entering the fray as part of a quadruple change. Smith believes this should become a more permanent arrangement.
"Perhaps it's time now to give Eze an extended run in the team instead of Odegaard, who has struggled a little bit," Smith suggested. "I think Arteta might just need to tweak his system a little bit and change some personnel perhaps."
Crucial Leeds Test Looms Large
Attention now turns to Saturday's trip to Elland Road, where Arsenal face a Leeds United side buoyed by their recent performance against Everton. Smith anticipates a "tough" encounter in front of hostile Yorkshire supporters.
"They've got to bounce back, there's no doubt about that," he emphasised. "If you're going to win the league you've got to be able to go to places like that and get the win really, particularly after the run of results they've had."
With Manchester City and Aston Villa maintaining relentless pressure following weekend victories, Arsenal's response at Leeds could prove pivotal to their title aspirations. Smith remains convinced they possess the quality to prevail, but believes tactical adjustments and personnel changes may be necessary to reignite their campaign.
