George Graham's Defense

Lore & Background

Arsenal's 2019–20 campaign had seen defensive frailties and a lack of creativity lead to a disappointing eighth-place finish, but a successful FA Cup run and increasing promise under new coach and former cup-winning captain Mikel Arteta gave them optimism. The season was defined by a three-month lull due to the COVID-19 pandemic; it was head coach Arteta's positive test that led to the season's pause. Arsenal kicked off the season by defeating league champions Liverpool in the FA Community Shield, which ended up being their only trophy.

In Their Own Story

During the Inter-Cities Fairs Cup final against Anderlecht, the defense faced a critical test after going down 3-0 with Jan Mulder scoring twice. Captain Frank McLintock, initially disappointed at the prospect of losing another cup final, rallied the dressing room by identifying Anderlecht's vulnerable defense as an exploit for the home leg at Highbury. The team played with great energy in the return match; Eddie Kelly scored a valuable first goal before John Radford found space to head in the second. Although Mulder hit the post, maintaining pressure on the Arsenal backline, the defensive unit held firm enough to allow Sammy Sammels to add a third, ensuring victory and ending a 17-year trophy drought.

Reader's Guide

Arsenal played in the Premier League, FA Cup, EFL Cup, and UEFA Europa League. They were eliminated from the FA Cup, EFL Cup, and UEFA Europa League. Key signings included Willian, Gabriel, Dani Ceballos (loan), and Thomas Partey. Notable results included a 3–0 win at Fulham, a 2–1 win over West Ham, a 3–1 loss at Liverpool, and a penalty shootout win over Liverpool in the EFL Cup.

Did You Know?

• Arsenal's only trophy of the season was the FA Community Shield, won on penalties against Liverpool.
• Captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang scored the winning penalty in the Community Shield and signed a new three-year contract in September.
• Arsenal failed to qualify for any European competition for the first time since the 1994–95 season.
• The club signed Thomas Partey on transfer deadline day by paying his £45 million release clause.