THE ARSENAL OPINION - BY LE GROVE

Arsenal slop out at Manchester United, recording their first loss in a month. It feels terrible, and the boys are here to dissect exactly what went wrong. On the agenda: 🤯 A Freak Result: Breaking down the chaotic nature of the scoreline. 🔄 Déjà Vu: Why the hallmarks of this loss look suspiciously identical to last season. 👻 The Disappearing Act: Where was Martin Ødegaard when we needed him? 9️⃣ The Striker Void: The frustration of having no one step up as a true number 9. 👔 Management Issues: Questions surrounding Arteta’s shoddy handling of Eze. 🔇 Misfiring Guns: The dire attacking output from Arsenal’s supposed “Bang Bang” players. Enjoy the episode early and ad-free by signing up as a member. NEWSLETTER + AUDIO: https://www.le-grove.co.uk/ AUDIO: https://www.patreon.com/c/TheArsenalOpinion Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This podcast would normally be for members, but I can't upload it to Apple Members because the Apple servers are down and have been for a long while... so I'm having to release it to everyone so the Apple Members have something to listen to this evening. We'll do a make-up members podcast for everyone very soon. It was a night of religious experiences at the San Siro as Arsenal delivered a “delicious” 3-0 victory over Inter Milan to secure a top-two finish in the Champions League group stage. Johnny, Jacob, and Matt are here to bask in the glow of a performance that proved the Gunners are truly the “best team in Europe” right now. In this episode we discuss: Jesus Reborn: Gabby Jesus gets the nod for a big European night and delivers a “fox in the box” masterclass. Is this the blueprint for the striker position while we wait for Havertz? The Big Vic Debate: Viktor Gyökeres silences the doubters (briefly) with a stunning late goal. We analyze whether his future lies as a “chaos agent” off the bench rather than a starter against low blocks. Magnificent Mosquera: A massive shoutout for 21-year-old Christian Mosquera, who stepped into the backline with “tank energy” and looked like a 10/10 signing. Saka’s Playground: Bukayo Saka turns up for the Champions League anthem yet again, leaving Federico Dimarco with “twisted blood” in a dominant display. The Eze Conundrum: While the attack flowed, Eberechi Eze still drifted in and out. We discuss how to unlock his undeniable talent before the season’s crunch time. Hottest of Takes: From “mental barriers” being broken to bold predictions of a historic treble, the boys are turning up the heat. Plus, we look ahead to a massive clash against Manchester United at the Emirates. Grab a refreshing beverage, sit back, and enjoy the ride—this runaway train isn’t stopping anytime soon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this edition of The Dugout, Jacob is joined by Alex Moneypenny from The Different Knock to dissect the emotional fallout of the 0-0 draw against Nottingham Forest. Despite sitting seven points clear at the top, the vibes are complicated—so how do we hold two opposing truths at once? In this episode we discuss: The Premier League “Quality” Debate: Alex delivers a hot take on why the narrative that the league is “terrible” this year is wrong, arguing that the league has never been more compact or difficult. The Joy Deficit: Jacob explores the struggle of the modern fan experience—why does being top of the league feel like a grind, and is the “journey” actually enjoyable this season? The Gyökeres Inquest: An emotionally honest conversation about Viktor Gyökeres. Is it a “translation” issue from the Portuguese league, and should he be used as a “hero” substitute rather than a starter against low blocks? Tactical Philosophy: A deep dive into whether Mikel Arteta prioritizes “relationships over profiling” in his team selection, and how that might be stalling the attack. The San Siro Test: Looking ahead to Inter Milan—why players won’t accept rotation for a Champions League anthem night, and the desperate need for Kai Havertz to return. Enjoy the episode early and ad-free by signing up as a member. NEWSLETTER + AUDIO: https://www.le-grove.co.uk/ AUDIO: https://www.patreon.com/c/TheArsenalOpinion Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Arsenal flopped to a 0-0 draw in a dominant game that was undone by a man-to-man deep block from the master. 🧱🔒 We discuss: Declan raging 🤬 Gyokeres reverts to the mean 📉 Martinelli with a MEGA miss 🤦‍♂️ Odegaard returns to misery form 😩 THEN SOME REAL TALK ABOUT THE PREMIER LEAGUE 🗣️ We’re still good. Arsenal will win the league. That point could look valuable. 🏆🔴⚪ Enjoy the podcast. 🎧 Enjoy the episode early and ad-free by signing up as a member. NEWSLETTER + AUDIO: https://www.le-grove.co.uk/ AUDIO: https://www.patreon.com/c/TheArsenalOpinion Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this edition of The Dugout, Jacob is joined by journalist Sam Dean to react to a chaotic but crucial 3-2 win over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. They discuss why Sam’s recent article ranking Arsenal’s signings caused such a stir online and why the narrative around the club’s spending is often misunderstood. In this episode we discuss: The Right-Back Debate: Sam delivers a spicy hot take on why Ben White must return to the starting lineup over Jurrien Timber to unlock the best version of Bukayo Saka. The Gyökeres Dilemma: Has “Big Vic” turned a corner with his goal and assist, or was it just a product of Chelsea’s high line? We analyze his best performance in months. Transfer Whispers: The validity of links to Anthony Gordon and Marc Guéhi, plus the difficult conversations the club might need to have about selling fan favorites like Gabriel Martinelli or Kai Havertz to balance the books. Saliba’s Evolution: Why William Saliba is arguably the most complete defender in Europe right now. Cup Fever: Debating whether an early cup final against Man City is a blessing or a curse for the title run-in. Enjoy the episode early and ad-free by signing up as a member. NEWSLETTER + AUDIO: https://www.le-grove.co.uk/ AUDIO: https://www.patreon.com/c/TheArsenalOpinion Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of The Arsenal Opinion, Pete and Jacob break down a frantic but entertaining victory over Portsmouth. They discuss why the chaotic nature of cup games is often more enjoyable than the tactical rigidity of top tier Premier League fixtures and praise the fresh energy brought by the rotated squad. The conversation takes a brief detour to La Liga to analyze the exit of Xabi Alonso from Real Madrid. The hosts debate whether player power has gone too far and if modern superstars like Mbappe and Vinicius Jr are becoming unmanageable for even the world's best coaches. Back in North London, the focus shifts to individual performances with some contrasting takes. Jacob argues that Ethan Nwaneri looked like a seasoned midfielder against Portsmouth and makes the case for him to keep his place for the upcoming Chelsea clash. Pete dives into the worrying data surrounding Viktor Gyökeres and questions if the club missed a massive marginal gain by not signing a striker who better fits the system. The boys also share their relief at the return of Kai Havertz and discuss how his presence instantly balances the attack. Additional topics include the struggles of summer signings Eberechi Eze and Noni Madueke to find consistent output, the specific chemistry between Gabriel Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli, and a full preview of the lineup dilemmas facing Mikel Arteta for the League Cup semi final. If you want this episode ADVERT FREE, get a membership below. You get bonus content, Discord access, and early access to live show tickets. NEWSLETTER + AUDIO: https://www.le-grove.co.uk/ AUDIO: https://www.patreon.com/c/TheArsenalOpinion Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s Thursday night football in 2026, and Arsenal have played out a stalemate against Liverpool at the Emirates. The result takes us six points clear at the top of the Premier League, but the performance—specifically a "f*****g awful" second half—has left the boys with plenty to vent about. THIS PODCAST RELEASED THE NIGHT OF THE GAME - IF YOU WANT THEM EARLY, JOIN UP, MEMBERSHIP AT THE BOTTOM Pete is joined by Matt Kandela and Johnny Cochrane to try and make wine out of a very muddy pool of water. While the table looks healthy, the eye test was worrying. From a lack of courage to a forward line that looks like it’s playing with ten men, the lads do not hold back on a frustrating evening in North London. On the docket today: The Game of Two Halves: A decent, aggressive opening 45 minutes followed by a leggy, passive surrender of control in the second. Why did we let Liverpool turn this into a chess match? The Striker Crisis: The gloves are off regarding "Big Vik" Gyökeres. Matt and Johnny deliver a brutal assessment of the Swedish striker—is he a "statue," a "magnet for defenders," or just not up to the level? Plus, the dream of Julian Alvarez. Myles Lewis-Skelly: A tough cameo for the youngster against a rampant Frimpong. Is it time for a loan, or was he just hung out to dry? Captain Anonymous: Martin Ødegaard ghosted the big occasion. Zero shots, zero duels won, and no "arm-waving" to save us. Jurrien Timber Supremacy: The undisputed Man of the Match. Why he is the only player currently operating at an elite, "Adamantium" level. Perspective FC: We didn't lose, Liverpool had zero shots on target, and the chasers are miles off. Are we overreacting, or are the cracks starting to show? Grab a drink, take a breath, and let’s digest that one. Up the Arsenal. If you want this episode ADVERT FREE, get a membership below. You get bonus content, Discord access, and early access to live show tickets. NEWSLETTER + AUDIO: https://www.le-grove.co.uk/ AUDIO: https://www.patreon.com/c/TheArsenalOpinion Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

First Therapy Session of 2026? Much needed, I’d say. 😮‍💨🛋️ Jacob and Pedro get into a few trigger conversations that might test your nerves, but stay calm. Talking it through is good for the soul. On the couch this week: 🧠 Gyökeres losing the home crowd 🔥 Headloss fans. Is it merited? 🤦‍♂️ The Martinelli nonsense 🏆 Managing the Cup experience 🎯 Who takes over as the 9 in the short term It’s a big one. Get stuck in. Thanks for listening. ❤️🎧 If you want this episode ADVERT FREE, get a membership below. You get bonus content, Discord access, and early access to live show tickets. NEWSLETTER + AUDIO: https://www.le-grove.co.uk/ AUDIO: https://www.patreon.com/c/TheArsenalOpinion Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Dugout is back for 2026! Jim Campbell from the Football Ramble returns to shake off the New Year's haze (and the Villa celebration hangovers) for a jam-packed episode. We’re looking past the "brain farts" on the South Coast and focusing on the flex. From transfer window headaches to the comedy show at Old Trafford, we’re covering it all. On the menu this week: The Havertz Reboot: He’s back, but will the team click or clunk with him back in the side? Nwaneri’s Dilemma: Do we stick, twist, or cash in on the teenage sensation while his stock is high? The Bournemouth Flex: Why a defensive howler didn't stop us from looking like Champions. The United Heist: Ruben Amorim’s "lottery win" photo and the search for a manager brave (or crazy) enough to take the reins. City’s Wobble: Are the juggernauts finally looking human without their Belgian King? Liverpool Looming: Why we’re ready to welcome the Reds (and why the fear factor might be gone). Plus, giving Trossard his flowers, the Eze debate, and some spicy score predictions. Tune in, get comfortable, and let's get into it. Ciao for now! 👋🔴⚪️ Newsletter + Audio: https://www.le-grove.co.uk/ Audio: https://www.patreon.com/c/TheArsenalOpinion Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

That’s the way we like it… A HUGE win against a very good Bournemouth team. Arsenal had their poor moments, but the team showed a lot of resilience and got the job done! We discussed: 🌸 Flower time for Gyökeres? 🪄 Ødegaard’s twinkle toes 🧱 Declan the DESTROYER ⚔️ Bournemouth’s man-to-man strategy 🧐 Hincapié reappraisal 🏆 The title race as it stands We hope you enjoy the show. If you want to become a member, there are two options: Newsletter + Audio: https://www.le-grove.co.uk/ Audio: https://www.patreon.com/c/TheArsenalOpinion Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

HAPPY NEW YEAR FRIENDS! Arsenal had a VERY good end to the year. This podcast covers off the BIG Aston Villa game. This pod is a later drop, if you want them LIVE, then click the member options in the links below. 👑 King Trossard 🪄 Ødegaard Scintillating 🤙 Incredible Jesus 🧠 Zubi Bossing the Park ⏱️ Villa’s Cynical Timewasting 📈 Arsenal Sitting Very, Very Pretty Newsletter & Audio member: https://www.le-grove.co.uk/s/the-arsenal-opinion-podcast Audio Member: https://www.patreon.com/c/TheArsenalOpinion Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Take a listen to the AOP Live Show 2025. The boys took over the Park Theatre at Finsbury Park and delivered an AOP On The Whistle like no other. We had Pedro, Jacob, Matt, and Johnny... and added Arsenal Legend Ray Parlour to the mixer as a special guest. We also closed out the show with a song from Dugout regulars, The Manor. If you want to see the video, check the link below and sign up for a yearly membership. Thanks for an incredible 2025. We appreciate your support, comments, DMs, casual slander, and any other new-age way you communicated with us. We're looking forward to a bigger, better, and spicier next season! Big love, The AOP team xx Auido & Writing Membership: https://www.le-grove.co.uk/p/the-aop-christmas-party-2025-members Audio: https://www.patreon.com/c/TheArsenalOpinion Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Pedro and Johnny got on the mics right after the game to discuss another monster win - our 8th of block 5! They chatted: 🛡️ Declan BOSSING it at right back 📉 Big Vik drops another shocker 📈 Hincapie raises his level again! 🤕 Injury clusters! 🪄 Martin SHOWPONYdegaard! Hope you enjoy the show. If you want these early, sign up to our patreon below! x https://www.patreon.com/c/TheArsenalOpinion Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Host Jacob Hawley is joined by actor and comedian Ed Kear for a debut appearance on the pod. The pair dissect a frustrating but vital win against Wolves, the strange feeling of being five points clear without fully clicking, and why this season feels different to previous title charges. In this episode: The Screen Smasher: Ed talks about the relief (and rage) of the Wolves win and why dropped points against Villa and Sunderland still haunt the fanbase. The Gyökeres Debate: Is it the player or the system? Ed argues that Arsenal aren’t exploiting Gyökeres’ attributes, while Jacob suggests the striker is suffering from “Main Man-itis” and a lack of confidence. Captaincy Call: A bold claim that the armband might be better suited to Declan Rice or Gabriel Magalhães to drive the team through the nervy moments. Odegaard’s Evolution: The boys discuss whether the captain is being too safe, if he should be moved back to an #8 role, or if he’s just suffering from a lack of “fantasy” in the final third. Everton Away: Why the upcoming trip to Goodison Park feels like a season definer, and the “vibes” based argument for starting Gabriel Jesus. Follow Ed Kear on social media and catch his live stand-up dates! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/edkear/?hl=en Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It wasn't pretty, but it was effective. The boys gather to break down a "nail-biter" against Wolves that saw Arsenal escape with a win and move five points clear at the top of the table. Despite a "destruction 11" lineup that failed to destroy, the panel discusses why winning ugly—even with two own goals—is the hallmark of champions. In this episode: The Ugly Win: Johnny labels the performance "full blown shit," but admits that finding a way to win when nothing is going right is a massive signal of intent for the title race. Jesus vs. Gyökeres: Pete declares Gabriel Jesus the "antidote" who brought Brazilian flair and energy to a stagnant attack, while the panel worries that "Big Vik" is running out of time and confidence. Super Subs: A look at how Arteta’s substitutions saved the day, with Trossard and Odegaard providing the quality and "game changer" energy needed to break the deadlock. Saka’s Ceiling: Matt asks if Saka is reaching "Hall of Fame" status, while Johnny compares him to Eden Hazard—a player who steps up to decide the biggest moments when the chips are down. The Eze Debate: Jacob defends Eze against claims of being anonymous, arguing the new signing needs time to adjust to Arteta's complex system, much like Declan Rice did. Arsenal newsletter: LE GROVE Exclsuive Audio: patreon.com/thearsenalopinion Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Fresh from a cold open training session at London Colney, Simon Collings (The Standard) joins host Jacob Hawley for a new episode of The Dugout. The pair dissect the “gut punch” defeat at Villa Park, analyzing how the match descended into an “Unai Emery basketball game” and asking the big question: Can this team survive the winter without the aura of Gabriel and William Saliba? On the agenda: Defensive Frailties: Analyzing the makeshift backline and Hincapié’s adjustment to the Premier League. The Eze Debate: Is he struggling to adapt to the system, or does he just need time like Declan Rice did? Odegaard’s Role: Why Arsenal need the 15-goal version of their captain back. Squad Rotation: Looking ahead to Club Brugge—will Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly finally get minutes? The Striker Situation: Gyökeres’ fitness, the Jesus wildcard, and the Noni Madueke conundrum. Simon’s Hot Take: Why he is doubling down on his prediction that Arsenal will win the league by 10 points. We hope you loved this one! x IF YOU WANT THE ADVERT FREE VERSION OF THIS PLEASE SIGN UP HERE: https://www.patreon.com/c/TheArsenalOpinion Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

All the boys are on for this one… and it was a horrible afternoon. We got into: 🎩 Odegaard’s performance 💣 Viktor’s disaster cameo 💀 The last-minute killer blow 🚨 Defensive chaos across the pitch 👊 Unai’s revenge tour rolling on Take a listen. IF YOU WANT THE ADVERT FREE VERSION OF THIS RIGHT AFTER THE GAME PLEASE SIGN UP HERE: https://www.patreon.com/c/TheArsenalOpinion Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It was a GLORIOUS no-drama kind of evening against Brentford which made for GOOD discussion. Pedro, Matt, and Johnny discussed: 🛡️ Best defence on the planet with another clean sheet 👑 KING MERINO OWNING THE 9 SHIRT 💀 Injury curse ramps up – Dekkers and Mosquera struck down 😬 Chelsea and Liverpool have shockers 🎩 Martin Odegaard and his OK return Enjoy the podcast, thanks for being a member! IF YOU WANT THE ADVERT FREE VERSION OF THIS RIGHT AFTER THE GAME PLEASE SIGN UP HERE: https://www.patreon.com/c/TheArsenalOpinion Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Pedro and Jacob dive into a nervy but valuable midweek win over Brentford, unpacking: 🔥 How Arsenal completely neutralised Brentford’s set-piece circus 💪 Merino’s outrageous form and whether he’s now undroppable 😬 Declan’s calf tweak, Mosquera’s knock, and the growing fitness crisis 🤕 Arteta’s rotation choices and the training-ground intensity debate 📉 Why Odegaard divides the fanbase despite strong numbers ⚡️ Noni Madueke: chaos merchant, future star, or finishing project? 🧱 Timber at centre-back and the state of the stand-in defence 🤝 Which attacker combinations actually work 📦 January loans: where should Berta strengthen? A lively, honest therapy session on a performance that gave us three points… and three new worries. Tap in and get your head straight for Villa away. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Rough afternoon at The Bridge, but a point gained. We discuss: 🔵 Caicedo madness 🤕 Arteta making the same fitness mistakes 😬 Madueke getting overawed 🥶 Myles having another poor game 🐺 MERINO DOING BIG DOG THINGS 🟥 Arsenal letting Chelsea off 10 men Enjoy the listen! x ____________________________ 🎧 IF YOU WANT THIS CONTENT AD FREE AND ALL THE BONUS THINGS LIKE NICE WRITING, EXTRA CONTENT, AND A VERY GOOD DISCORD, PICK YOUR OPTION BELOW: WRITING + AUDIO + VIDEO: https://www.patreon.com/c/TheArsenalOpinion AUDIO + VIDEO: https://www.le-grove.co.uk/8c0cfff5 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices