Arsenal are yet to hit top gear this season but they are in a strong position going into the November international break.
The Gunners are one point off Premier League leaders Manchester City and top of their Champions League group. A draw against Lens in their next game will secure a spot in the last 16.
Here, Standard Sport assesses how they are faring.
Season so far in one word: Promising
Verdict compared to pre-season expectations: Tracking well at the moment. Only a point off leaders City and on course to reach the last 16 of the Champions League.
Crashing out of the Carabao Cup to West Ham was the only real blip. Secured a statement win over City last month.
How is the manager doing? Besides waging a war with referees, Mikel Arteta is doing an excellent job.
There are signs that he is getting better at rotating his squad, while Declan Rice has hit the ground running. The jury is out on the signing of David Raya and dropping of Aaron Ramsdale, however.
Reason to be cheerful: The defence. Arsenal have the joint best defence in the Premier League.
William Saliba has arguably been their best performer and his absence from the final 10 games of last season’s title race looks even more costly now. If Arsenal can get their attack clicking, they can dream of the title.
Reason to be fearful: Injuries. Arsenal have struggled with fitness issues all season, especially in attack.
Only twice has Arteta been able to start his preferred forward line of Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli. Thomas Partey’s continued absence has also been felt in midfield and the Gunners may have to spend in January.
Fans’ mood: Optimistic. Arsenal have not hit top gear yet, but they are still in a strong position domestically and in Europe.
Last season, the Gunners started fast and then fizzled out. This year, fans believe they can build into the campaign so that they peak at the end business end of it.
Overall grade: A-
