Before diving into the tactical breakdown of Arsenal’s victory over West Ham, it’s crucial to address the controversy surrounding the Hammers’ stoppage-time equalizer being overturned.
Regular football viewers would likely agree that the grappling seen during corners and set-pieces has become excessive this season. Most fans support stricter enforcement, as too many instances see players getting away with such fouls. Ironically, Callum Wilson’s 95th-minute goal being disallowed by VAR for that very reason highlights a pattern—Mikel Arteta’s side has often escaped punishment for similar actions.
While it’s frustrating that officials only acted now, benefiting Arsenal, the decision was correct in isolation. David Raya was hindered by Pablo from lifting his arm upward, and Jean-Clair Todibo pulled his shirt from behind, preventing him from jumping. Essentially, there were two fouls, so despite Wilson’s brilliant finish and the dramatic moment neutrals love, the reality is that it was a foul—regardless of your team allegiance.
This wasn’t the sole reason Arsenal won, though. They had some luck along the way, including Raya’s save from Mateus Fernandes and Gabriel’s block from Wilson, which led to the contentious corner. But most credit should go to Arteta.
Managers don’t always make the right decisions, but the hallmark of a good one is recognizing when something isn’t working, taking risks, and adapting. Arteta did exactly that. Against West Ham, he made three substitutions, with only the final changes proving effective—but those decisions ultimately secured the win.
His boldness, combined with Arsenal’s formidable squad depth we’ve highlighted in recent months, enabled them to take another significant step toward the Premier League title.
**I understand why Rice moved to right-back—but it didn’t work**
Arsenal started Sunday’s game with the right intensity, knowing they needed a win. They pressed effectively, won second balls, and moved the ball forward quickly. While watching for Match of the Day, I immediately sensed their determination. They looked strong and created several excellent early chances.
However, West Ham grew into the game, and Arteta’s first change—bringing Martin Zubimendi on for the injured Ben White after 28 minutes—didn’t pay off. I understand the logic: with White off, Arsenal were dominating, and West Ham’s wing-backs were pinned back, allowing Riccardo Calafiori and White plenty of possession in the Hammers’ half. Arteta likely thought Rice, comfortable on the ball, could stay at right-back, while Zubimendi’s technical ability would allow him to dictate play from midfield. This move also let Rice handle Crysencio Summerville athletically, and though Cristhian Mosquera was available on the bench, Mosquera is more of a pure defender—Arteta wanted to stay aggressive.
But it didn’t unfold as planned. Arsenal lost momentum, and West Ham had a couple of chances before halftime, showing just how vital Rice is in midfield.
