\n<\/p>\n
This match always felt like a huge moment in the Gunners’ season.<\/p>\n
After recent disappointments, it was time to make a statement.<\/p>\n
Arteta must now hope it is not the game that is highlighted as the one where Arsenal threw away the title.<\/p>\n
Supporters arrived full of hope for a confident performance after their late winner against Sporting in the Champions League on Tuesday.<\/p>\n
Instead they witnessed a nervy performance with Arsenal well below their best.<\/p>\n
Injuries have hit Arsenal at a crucial time and they were without Bukayo Saka, captain Martin Odegaard and Jurrien Timber.<\/p>\n
Myles Lewis-Skelly came in at left-back for just his second league start of the season, with Riccardo Calafiori also unavailable.<\/p>\n
Arsenal’s attack lacked rhythm and potency, a problem Arteta aimed to solve with his second-half triple change, but Bournemouth were the team most willing to be bold when going forward.<\/p>\n
There is a sense of desperation within the fanbase after three successive second-placed finishes in the Premier League, and every loose pass from Arsenal was met with groans from home supporters.<\/p>\n
It will get no easier from here. After the Sporting second leg on Wednesday, Arsenal have to be up to speed for Sunday’s trip to Etihad Stadium, which is followed by a home game against Newcastle.<\/p>\n
There is a chance that come kick-off on 25 April against the Magpies, Arsenal’s lead will have entirely eroded, as City face Chelsea, the Gunners themselves and Burnley before then. That would be tough to swallow, and tough to come back from.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
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