Today we find out whether we really are a “new” Arsenal

In the 12 matches an Arsene Wenger side has played against a Jose Mourinho side, Arsenal have won none. In those 12 matches, Chelsea have won 7 while 5 have been drawn. Today we find out if Arsenal are finally over the proverbial hump.

Today is the day all the talking and the back and forth stops and nothing at all will matter until the final whistle. The eight game winning streak in the league Arsenal are on? Irrelevant. The improved form against big clubs this year? Meaningless. They will mean nothing if we lose today.

We have seen a different Arsenal lately. An Arsenal with a certain drive and determination to them, an irresistible one. We have seen an Arsenal far more mature and far less naive. A rugged Arsenal, prepared to dig in and band together to ground out results even when the normal pass and move fluidity has deserted them.

In order for to fully accept this “new” Arsenal however, we must finally beat Chelsea. And it starts today. For whatever reason, there is this mental block when it comes to Mourinho’s men. They seem to have us all figured out. They clog the midfield areas and stop us from playing our usual quick short passing combinations, before quickly hitting us on the counter attack.

If Arsenal are to be taken seriously and emerge as title challengers once again, they simply must find a way to win these kinds of matches. Chelsea can afford a draw (they could afford a loss as well theoretically), and as such will set up not to lose and to be difficult to break down. We should be prepared for them to sit deep behind the ball and soak up the pressure as per usual.

Patience is the key, Arsenal must pick their moments carefully but incisively, just as they did against City. Defensively, we have to nullify the threat of Hazard. He must not be allowed to roam free and simply must be accounted for at all times.

Massive, massive, implications in this one. Today is the day we show that a new Arsenal has emerged. The wins over United, Liverpool, and City were just the start. Knocking off Chelsea is the real test. The lads should be in confident mood given their current form, and can take plenty of takeaways from the first match. Although it ended 2-0, Arsenal saw much of the ball in dangerous areas but seemingly forgot their shooting boots.

We lacked incision and cutting edge on the day. We cannot afford a repeat. Arsenal will have much of the ball, and with the speed and creativity we have in the side, chances should come as well. Bury a few and we should have a good chance of finally pulling the scalp.