Nuno Espirito Santo aims dig at Arsenal, highlights Arteta’s biggest problem

Arsenal’s struggles in front of goal continued on Wednesday night as Nuno Espirito Santo’s Nottingham Forest became the ninth team to keep Mikel Arteta’s side from scoring this season.

Following their 1-0 home defeat to West Ham United on Saturday, Arsenal needed a positive result against Nottingham to keep the pressure on league leaders, Liverpool. However, the Gunners failed to find the back of the net once again at the City Ground.

The stalemate at Forest meant their slim hopes of winning the Premier League faded further with Liverpool stretching their lead to 13 points after their victory over Newcastle United.

Mikel Arteta, Manager of Arsenal (Photo by Naomi Baker/Getty Images)

With no recognised striker up front, Arsenal recorded thirteen shots – just one on target – with Riccardo Calafiori coming the closest with a curling effort.

Mikel Merino’s goal against Leicester City was the last time Arsenal have scored. Their inability to fill in a recognised forward have seen opposition make changes to their formation.

After the draw with Arsenal, Forest boss Nuno Espirito Santo pinpointed the lack of presence in the final third offered as a key factor in his decision to name four defenders, rather than five like he did in the 7-0 win over Brighton & Hove Albion.

“As Arsenal doesn’t have a striker, there’s no need for an extra body. So the overload will be in the midfield so it’s about containing the midfield.”

The Portuguese comment proves Arsenal needs to find a lasting solution to their number nine problem. With the transfer window closed, Mikel Arteta might have to turn to the club’s academy.