Arsenal are producing more goals from extended passing moves in the early 2026/27 season, according to a VnExpress analysis drawing on the Telegraph. Its October 17 report examines Mikel Arteta's attacking approach rather than presenting earlier matches as new results.
Across the Premier League and Champions League, it identifies five goals from sequences of at least ten consecutive passes, representing approximately 36% of goals in the analysed sample.
Combinations near the penalty area
Bukayo Saka's goal against Lille is one example. The report counts twelve passes over approximately thirty-five seconds from Declan Rice winning possession, with Martin Odegaard, Kai Havertz and Saka combining in the final phase.
Another example is Odegaard's winner against Napoli, preceded by twenty-nine passes. Moves against Leeds and Chelsea also illustrate collective involvement in attacks.
These matches supply tactical evidence. The new article provides analysis of scoring methods, rather than adding victories beyond results already recorded.
A broader attacking mix
VnExpress compares the current sample with ten such goals across 2025/26, approximately 10% of that season's total. The early-season and full-season percentages have different sample sizes.
Arteta is quoted emphasising multiple ways to win when one approach is ineffective. The article connects that aim with his earlier comments about encouraging boldness and individual inspiration.
The availability of Saka, Havertz and Odegaard is presented as helping their understanding. That remains the analysis's explanation of current form. Set pieces can still contribute to the attack; the argument concerns adding collective passing options, not abandoning dead-ball situations altogether.