Jamie Carragher has dismissed claims that Arsenal are struggling mentally, instead arguing their main issue is a lack of top-level quality in attack.
The former Liverpool defender was responding to criticism following Arsenal’s 3-2 home defeat to Manchester United, after Patrick Vieira questioned the team’s mentality. Carragher believes the problem lies further forward.
“I don’t think Arsenal lack mental strength – they lack quality in attacking areas. Do they have a genuine superstar in attack? I’ve always had this feeling with Arsenal for a number of years and I felt that was the reason why they didn’t go on and win the Premier League.
“You think what Mo Salah did for Liverpool last season, what Erling Haaland’s done or Kevin De Bruyne at Manchester City. Arsenal lack that type of player.
“I don’t necessarily think Arsenal have got much better in the last couple of years, I actually think Man City and Liverpool have dropped off.
“I still think Arsenal will win the league and are the best team, but they do lack genuine world-class quality at the top of the pitch.
“I’ve always felt Arsenal’s problem is a creative one rather than a finishing one. I don’t think they create enough for any striker they have up there. It hasn’t quite worked for Gabriel Jesus, Kai Havertz or Viktor Gyokeres in terms of being an out-and-out goalscorer.
“They’re going to try and win the league in a different way and if they are to win the league, the big reason will be the two centre-backs, the goalkeeper and Declan Rice,” Carragher has said.