The Arsenal worst partnership this season may not be where many expected. Recent criticism has focused on Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi. Some believe the midfield lacks balance or slows Arsenal down in possession.
However, new data suggests the real issue sits elsewhere.
Figures shared by James Benge show Arsenal’s attacking output drops sharply when Viktor Gyökeres and Gabriel Martinelli play together.
That shift changes the conversation. It moves attention away from the midfield and onto the frontline, where Arsenal are struggling to turn possession into chances.
Data shows Arsenal’s attacking output drops with key partnership
Arsenal average 1.04 open play expected goals per 90 this season.
That number falls to 0.29 when Viktor Gyökeres and Gabriel Martinelli share the pitch.
The drop is significant. It points to a lack of chemistry in the final third.
Arsenal still control games. They still progress the ball well. But once they reach dangerous areas, the attack often breaks down.
This data suggests the issue is not building attacks, it is finishing them.
Are Rice and Zubimendi being blamed unfairly?
Much of the criticism has targeted Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi.
That reaction is understandable. Arsenal have looked less fluid in recent games.
But the data tells a different story.
The midfield still does its job. It controls tempo and moves the ball into advanced areas.
The real problem comes after that. Arsenal are not creating enough clear chances once they arrive in the final third.
That raises a question. Have the wrong players taken the blame?
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Madueke adds to growing concern for Arteta
The situation becomes more worrying with Noni Madueke involved.
In a smaller sample, Arsenal’s output drops even further when all three players play together.
The sample size is limited, but the trend is clear.
For a title-chasing side, small drops like this matter.
Mikel Arteta now faces a key decision. He must find combinations that maintain control and produce chances.
With crucial games ahead, Arsenal cannot afford attacking partnerships that limit their output.
