By Kauki Sulaiman
Arsenal’s Premier League title ambitions took another major hit as they were held to a goalless draw by Nottingham Forest at the City Ground. The result leaves the Gunners 13 points adrift of league leaders Liverpool, who extended their advantage with a 2-0 victory over Newcastle at Anfield.
Following their disappointing home defeat to West Ham, Arsenal needed a response, but a lack of attacking firepower saw them fail to break down a resolute Forest defense. Manager Mikel Arteta had vowed to continue fighting despite the gap at the top, but with Wednesday’s results, the Gunners’ title challenge appears all but over.
Missed Opportunity for Arsenal
Arsenal dominated possession but were unable to find the cutting edge needed to convert their control into goals. Injuries to key attacking players—including Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli, and Kai Havertz—left Arteta with limited options in the final third.
Leandro Trossard and Mikel Merino combined well but lacked a focal point in attack. The closest Arsenal came to breaking the deadlock was Riccardo Calafiori’s effort that struck the post and bounced into the arms of Forest goalkeeper Matz Sels. Merino also saw a header well saved by Sels early in the second half.
At the other end, Arsenal’s possession play largely nullified Forest’s main attacking threat, 18-goal striker Chris Wood. When Wood did receive service in the second half, Arsenal keeper David Raya made a crucial save to deny him.
Forest’s European Aspirations Stay Alive
While Arsenal’s title dreams seem to be fading, the result bolstered Nottingham Forest’s hopes of securing a Champions League place. They remain six points behind the Gunners and two points ahead of Chelsea in fifth place, keeping their European ambitions within reach.
What’s Next for Arsenal?
With their Premier League title bid faltering, Arsenal must quickly regroup ahead of a crucial Champions League last-16 clash against PSV on Tuesday, March 4. That competition now represents their best opportunity to claim silverware this season. As the debate continues over whether the club should have signed a striker in January, Arsenal will need to refocus their efforts to salvage what remains of their campaign.