Arsenal’s Premier League title challenge took another hit on Wednesday as they were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw against Nottingham Forest at the City Ground.
The result sees Mikel Arteta’s men drop two crucial points in the title race, leaving them 10 points behind leaders Liverpool, who can extend their lead to 13 points if they defeat Newcastle later.
The Gunners’ lack of attacking firepower was evident as they managed just one shot on target throughout the match, with injuries to key players Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, Gabriel Jesus, and Kai Havertz limiting their options.
Arteta deployed midfielder Mikel Merino as a makeshift striker, but the Spaniard failed to provide the cutting edge Arsenal desperately needed — just as he did in their shock 1-0 defeat to West Ham last weekend.
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Defender Riccardo Calafiori came closest to breaking the deadlock when his first-half effort struck the inside of the post, while Merino forced Forest goalkeeper Matz Sels into a rare save with a header from a corner early in the second half.
Forest, who are battling to secure a Champions League spot, offered little going forward but nearly snatched all three points through Chris Wood, whose effort was comfortably saved by David Raya.
The result leaves Forest third on the table, ahead of defending champions Manchester City, while Arsenal’s title bid looks increasingly in jeopardy after dropping more points.