Arsenal’s 1-0 victory over Ipswich Town at the Emirates was a perfect summary of their season so far: resolute at the back, functional in attack, and far from their fluid best. The win moved them back to second in the Premier League, six points behind Liverpool, but it underlined the challenges facing Mikel Arteta and his team as they try to stay in the title race.

It was not a vintage performance. Arsenal dominated possession but struggled to carve out clear chances against an Ipswich side that came to frustrate. The decisive moment came in the 23rd minute when Kai Havertz volleyed home, benefitting from some scrappy defending. From there, the Gunners failed to capitalise on their dominance, leaving the game finely balanced until the final whistle.

This was the first match Arsenal started without Bukayo Saka, whose absence loomed large. The England international is irreplaceable, and his dynamism in the final third was sorely missed. Leandro Trossard deputised admirably, setting up Havertz’s goal, but the drop in pace and directness was noticeable. Arsenal looked like a team struggling to find their attacking rhythm without their talisman.

Defensively, however, they were impeccable. The clean sheet marked their fourth consecutive shutout at home in the league. Ipswich failed to register a single shot on target, a testament to Arsenal’s growing solidity at the back. This defensive foundation could be crucial as they try to navigate a tricky festive period.

Arteta deserves immense credit for dragging his side to this point despite a season plagued by injuries. Saka’s absence, coupled with setbacks to other key players, has tested the squad’s depth. Yet Arsenal remain Liverpool’s closest challengers, a testament to their resilience and Arteta’s ability to extract results from difficult situations.

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The January transfer window now looms large. If Arsenal are to push Liverpool in the second half of the season, reinforcements are essential. More attacking depth and additional cover in key positions could give them the boost they need to go on one of the runs they have proven capable of in the past.

The title race is a different beast this season. Liverpool are a relentless force, unlike Manchester City’s methodical dominance of recent years. Arsenal must adapt quickly if they are to stay in contention. For now, they keep grinding out results, but the road ahead is long and arduous.