Arsenal's Premier League title hopes took a hit after a 2-1 loss to Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium. The defeat allowed City to close the gap to three points, with a game in hand against Burnley that could shift the balance of the title race. Mikel Arteta acknowledged his side lacked composure, despite creating chances. "We could have been a bit more composed in certain moments but we certainly took the game to where we wanted and we had big chances to win," Arteta said. Arsenal's attacking output came under scrutiny, especially given the £55million signing of Viktor Gyokeres in the summer to solidify the No.9 role. Former Arsenal midfielder Emmanuel Petit has suggested adding Marcus Rashford to the squad, believing he could make a significant impact. "I would love to see Marcus Rashford at Arsenal," Petit said. "I think he'd have a big impact. What he has done at Barcelona, after he struggled for two or three seasons, has impressed me." Rashford, who fell out of favour under Ruben Amorim at Manchester United, came off the bench in the 84th minute during City's win over Arsenal. Petit expressed surprise that Rashford did not start Barcelona's Champions League second-leg match against Atletico Madrid, despite Raphinha's strong performances.
Arsenal's reliance on new signings to fix recurring attacking shortcomings is back in focus despite Gyokeres' arrival. Arteta's side created chances but failed to convert, exposing the same issues they hoped to leave behind. No Nigerian or African player featured in the match or transfer discussion.
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