Arsenal face nightmare scenario after turgid Newcastle display despite Man City shock

Arsenal's latest title bid is already looking to be on shaky ground.

's side in what was only their second defeat this season. Arsenal are now seven points behind league leaders Liverpool after Arne Slot's men beat Brighton 2-1.

The Gunners only avoided going eight points off top spot thanks to Bournemouth's surprise win over Manchester City. But to make matters worse for the north Londoners, Arteta could see his team plummet down the standings by Sunday night. If Aston Villa and win their matches this weekend, Arsenal will drop to sixth place.

Such a scenario would represent a nightmare for a side expected to be title challengers. There would still be time for the Gunners to make up ground - but having so many others above them would make that difficult to navigate.

If Arsenal fall short, once again, Arteta will be under pressure to deliver trophies in other competitions. But would the Carabao Cup, for example, represent a good enough return?

Erik ten Hag's won that particular trophy two seasons ago, . The pressure at United may be greater than at Arsenal - but make no mistake that the League Cup is fourth on the list of priorities for every top team.

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Having players back from injury, particularly , could see a return to top form, putting Arteta's men back among the title contenders. A win at Chelsea next weekend would go a long way to restoring confidence and momentum, too, but the Blues have started well this season following on from recent woes.

Arsenal have not tasted silverware success since the FA Cup in 2020. After almost five years in charge, it's now time for Arteta to deliver after being handed the patience and financial support to win major trophies.