Arsenal international hails defensive improvements in title charge

Arsenal defender Nacho Monreal has hailed the club’s defensive prowess in the Premier League this season, believing it’s a key reason as to why the Gunners are in the title race.

The Gunners have conceded just nine goals in 12 games so far this season, giving them one of the most solid defences in the league, and Arsenal have lost just twice; a defeat on the opening day to West Ham United and a controversial clash with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.

Now, speaking to Arsenal Player, Monreal has revealed he believes the defensive improvements are the catalyst to Arsenal’s fine form this season- comparing this campaign to when he joined in January 2013.

“We need to learn from that. I remember it very well because we finished the first half of the season [near the top]. In the second half, we lost a lot of games so we need to learn about that.”

“I think the team is different now. We have different players, and are more competitive. I think the level of the team is better now and I hope we can do something special this season. At the moment, everything is right so we need to carry on.”

“The secret? I will say that we are playing more compact, like a unit. The players are playing with more solidarity, all players try to defend. I think this is the [reason for] that. We have won the Community Shield, we are second in the Premier League with the same points as Manchester City.”

Monreal has been a permanent fixture in Arsenal’s back-line this season, proving to be one of the Gunners top performers this calendar year.