Arsenal’s main weakness is lack of world-class forward - Carragher

Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher has dismissed claims that Arsenal lack mental toughness, insisting instead that the club’s biggest shortcoming is the absence of a genuine world-class forward.

Speaking on Monday Night Football after Arsenal’s 3-2 loss to Manchester United, Carragher argued that questions surrounding the Gunners’ mentality are misplaced.

“I don’t think Arsenal lack mental strength; they lack quality in attacking areas. Do they have a genuine superstar in attack?” Carragher said.

Carragher compared Arsenal’s attacking options with those of recent Premier League champions, highlighting the decisive influence of elite individuals.

“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,” he noted.

According to Carragher, the absence of a consistent match-winner has been a recurring issue that has prevented Arsenal from converting strong campaigns into league titles.

Despite his criticism, Carragher remains confident in Mikel Arteta’s side and believes they are still well-positioned to win the Premier League this season.

“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,” he said.

He added, “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.”

Carragher also suggested Arsenal’s attacking struggles stem more from a lack of creativity than from poor finishing.

“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,” he explained.