Arsenal’s Title Hopes Diminish After Defeat to Manchester United

omidbasir- Arsenal began the current campaign with an impressive performance, having only conceded three goals in their first eight matches. This remarkable record meant that the Gunners were allowing an average of just 0.38 goals per game, setting a pace that could have seen them finish the season with only 14.4 goals conceded.

However, Mikel Arteta’s team has struggled to maintain this high standard. In a thrilling match against their historic rivals, Manchester United, Arsenal conceded three goals, leading to a 3-2 defeat at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday.

This loss brings Arsenal’s total goals conceded this season to 17, ensuring that Chelsea’s record from the 2004-05 season—when they allowed only 15 goals—remains intact for another year. Under the leadership of John Terry, that Chelsea side dominated defensively, a feat that Arsenal will not surpass unless they significantly improve.

The Gunners are unlikely to be overly troubled by missing out on Chelsea’s record if they can secure the Premier League title, but Terry has taken pleasure in reminding his former rivals of their defensive prowess. Following Arsenal’s defeat to United, the former Chelsea and England captain expressed on social media, “The record is safe for another year.”

In a video accompanying his post, Terry further celebrated, saying, “January 25th, 2026, and the record is safe. Man United 2, Arsenal 1.” He humorously invited former teammates to celebrate with him, stating, “I’m going for the bottle for celebration tonight. But guys let me know your thoughts. Can this record of 15 goals conceded in one season ever be beaten? I’m saying no.” Terry acknowledged his earlier concerns regarding Arsenal’s strong start to the season, admitting he initially worried they might surpass Chelsea’s record.

The defeat to United marked Arsenal’s first home loss in the Premier League this season, exposing moments of nervousness within the team. The Red Devils played aggressively, not allowing Arsenal to settle, which contributed to an anxious atmosphere in the stands.

Questions are now being raised about Arsenal’s ability to regroup and break their long-standing wait for a title, having finished as runners-up for the past three seasons. The last time Arsenal claimed a domestic title was with the legendary ‘Invincibles’ in 2003-04, a feat they surrendered to Chelsea the following year, ushering in a new era for the Blues under Mourinho and Terry.

Both Arsenal and Chelsea will be in Champions League action this week as they complete the league phase of the tournament. The two teams are set to meet again on February 3 for the second leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final, where Arsenal currently leads 3-2 on aggregate.