The atmosphere around the Emirates Stadium is electric, buzzing with a sense of anticipation not felt in North London for nearly two decades. Could this be the year? After years of near-misses and rebuilding, Arsenal's performance in the 2025/26 Premier League season suggests that the Gunners are not just contenders but potentially the team to beat.
Currently, in late November 2025, Arsenal sits atop the Premier League table, having showcased a blend of tactical maturity, defensive solidity, and attacking flair. Recent form, highlighted by a dominant 4-1 victory over arch-rivals Tottenham Hotspur, underscores their title credentials. Eberechi Eze, a summer acquisition from Crystal Palace, has quickly become a fan favorite, netting a hat-trick in the North London derby and solidifying Arsenal's attacking options.
Mikel Arteta, now in his sixth full season as manager, has meticulously constructed a squad capable of challenging on all fronts. The Gunners have been building towards this moment, with consistent top-four finishes and shrewd acquisitions setting the stage for a title push. However, after finishing second for three consecutive seasons, the pressure is on Arteta to deliver silverware.
Arsenal's summer transfer activity signaled their intent. The arrival of Viktor Gyökeres from Sporting CP addressed the long-standing need for a prolific center-forward. His physical presence, coupled with his proven goal-scoring record, adds a new dimension to Arsenal's attack. Martin Zubimendi's addition to the midfield provides metronomic accuracy and control, allowing Declan Rice and Martin Ødegaard to flourish. Defensively, the Gunners remain resolute, a foundation built over the past two seasons.
However, the path to the Premier League title is never straightforward. Liverpool, the defending champions, are expected to mount a strong challenge. Managed by Arne Slot, Liverpool secured their 20th English top-flight crown in the 2024-25 season. Manchester City, despite a trophyless campaign last season, cannot be discounted, with Pep Guardiola always a force to be reckoned with. Chelsea and a resurgent Manchester United will also be vying for a top-four spot, ensuring a fiercely competitive race.
Arsenal's fixture list presents both opportunities and challenges. The holiday period, with home games against Aston Villa and Brighton, will test their squad depth. A six-match stretch following the holidays, including clashes against Liverpool, Manchester United, and Tottenham, could prove decisive.
Beyond domestic ambitions, Arsenal is also competing in the UEFA Champions League. After a strong showing in the group stage, the Gunners are aiming for a deep run in the competition, a testament to their growing stature on the European stage.
For Arsenal, the 2025/26 season represents a pivotal moment. With a blend of experience and youthful exuberance, tactical flexibility, and a burning desire to succeed, they have all the ingredients to end their Premier League drought. Whether this heralds the start of a new era of dominance remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the wait is reaching its climax, and Arsenal are ready to seize their moment.
