Arsenal Attack Like Invincibles, Defend Like 97-98 Side
Arsenal attack like Invincibles and defend with the discipline of the 1997-98 title-winning team, according to former defender and Premier League legend. The Gunners’ dominance under Mikel Arteta mirrors the balance, leadership, and mentality of the great Arsène Wenger sides.
Arsenal’s Defensive Excellence Under Arteta
Arsenal’s defensive record this season is remarkable. They have conceded only three goals in the Premier League, the fewest of any side, and recorded seven clean sheets across all competitions. The Gunners have faced just 75 total shots and 19 on target, also the fewest in the league. These numbers illustrate a team built on resilience, unity, and a willingness to defend as passionately as they attack.
Arteta’s men are unbeaten in their last eight matches without conceding, showcasing a combination of tactical discipline and collective hunger. As the manager often stresses, “We attack together, and we defend together.” This unity has rekindled the Arsenal DNA that once made them one of Europe’s most feared clubs.
Comparisons to Wenger’s Glory Years
The team’s structure evokes memories of Wenger’s Invincibles (2003-04) and the 1997-98 double-winning side. Both eras were defined by an unbreakable defensive core—Tony Adams, Sol Campbell, and Lee Dixon—balanced by free-flowing attack led by legends like Thierry Henry and Dennis Bergkamp.
The current side carries the same traits. Gabriel Magalhães leads the backline with authority, while Declan Rice anchors the midfield with intelligence and aggression. New forward Viktor Gyökeres brings personality and presence up front. These leaders reflect the spirit and culture Arteta has rebuilt since taking charge.
“There’s a passion to defend as much as there is to score,” said the former Arsenal player. “It had disappeared for too long, but Arteta has brought that fight back.”
Mentality and Motivation Behind Arsenal’s Rise
Arsenal’s current mentality echoes the hunger of past champions who used near-misses as motivation. The Gunners have finished second for three consecutive seasons, but that frustration has strengthened their resolve. “It breeds an inner feeling of ‘over my dead body, this will not happen again,’” the ex-player noted. “You can see that same fire in this group.”
Arteta’s squad now plays with emotional control and tactical awareness. “They just have to keep a lid on it,” the veteran warned. “You live it, breathe it, eat it — it becomes your badge.” The commitment to consistency and composure is what sets this Arsenal side apart from their competitors.
Leaders and Team Culture
The club’s modern leadership core has drawn comparisons to the iconic personalities of Wenger’s dressing room. “I can’t choose between Sol Campbell and Tony Adams, Lauren or Lee Dixon — they were all leaders,” he said. “Now I see that same blend of character with Gabriel, Rice, and Odegaard.”
Every player, whether vocal or quiet, contributes to the culture. “Even those who don’t speak much, when they do, everyone listens. That’s how great teams operate.”
Arsenal’s Title Ambition
Arteta’s side sits top of the defensive charts and remains one of the Premier League’s most complete units. Their balance of attacking flair and defensive discipline has restored belief among fans that Arsenal can finally lift major silverware again.
“Arteta has brought back the Arsenal fight,” said the former star. “That DNA disappeared for too long, but now it’s back — and it’s stronger than ever.”
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