The NN Pod breaks down Arsenal’s win away on the south coast as Mikel Arteta’s side navigate a difficult afternoon at Bournemouth and keep momentum building ahead of Liverpool’s visit to the Emirates.

We begin with a deep dive into a disjointed first half — why Arsenal struggled for control, how Bournemouth disrupted rhythm, and where structure and decision-making fell short. The conversation then shifts to the second-half response, with Declan Rice’s authority, aggression, and brace central to Arsenal regaining control and getting the job done.

Key discussion points include:

• Why Arsenal played into Bournemouth’s hands early

• Rice’s leadership, mentality, and growing influence in defining games

• Gabriel’s error and instant redemption

• Midfield balance, pressing, and second-half adjustments

From there, we move into Whip Around the Grounds (WATG), covering the weekend’s Premier League action — including Liverpool, Manchester City, Spurs, Aston Villa, and the wider title-race context.

Next up is VARse, breaking down refereeing and VAR flashpoints from across the league, including major incidents at Brentford vs Spurs and Fulham vs Liverpool, alongside a wider discussion on offside decisions, consistency, and the state of VAR.

The episode also steps away from the pitch to discuss:

• Ruben Amorim’s Manchester United exit and the wider managerial churn

• Edu, Nottingham Forest, and reassessing narratives around recruitment and influence

We wrap up with:

• The Who Am I? game

• A Liverpool preview, looking ahead to a pivotal night at the Emirates — mindset, tactics, and what Arsenal must get right

Another three points secured. Standards tested. Attention turns to what comes next.

Retribution delivered. Statement made.

Arsenal respond emphatically to Aston Villa with a dominant 4–1 win at the Emirates, reasserting control, standards, and authority after recent frustration. With Declan Rice missing, Mikel Arteta’s side are forced to adapt — and ultimately overwhelm Villa through structure, pressure, and second-half execution.

We break down a chaotic first half that played into Villa’s running game, the key half-time reset, and how Arsenal regained control after the break. Gabriel’s return to set-piece dominance, Ødegaard’s midfield authority, and Zubimendi’s composed finish define a ruthless spell that puts the game beyond doubt, before late sloppiness dents the scoreline.

The discussion also covers Merino’s second-yellow escape, left-side balance issues, Raya’s late interventions, and why this performance felt inevitable after weeks of underlying dominance.

Part two features the Who Am I? game, debate over the Declan Rice injury leak, Premier League prediction games including Leeds vs Manchester United, Wolves vs West Ham relegation context, and a Bournemouth preview with selection questions, injury concerns, and rotation talk ahead of a busy schedule.

A response episode. A standards episode. Arsenal back on their terms.

Chapters:

(00:00) – Arteta’s Non-Negotiables Intro

(00:54) – Revenge Framing & Why This Was a Must-Win

(01:44) – Starting XI Shock: Rice Out, Timber Relief

(03:21) – Fitness Returns: White & Havertz on the Bench

(06:01) – Match Stats: xG, Territory & Control Narrative

(06:31) – First-Half Problem: Turning It Into a Running Game

(09:45) – Villa Chances, Watkins Miss & Warning Signs

(13:17) – Half-Time Reset: Calm, Control & Discipline

(15:08) – 1–0 | Gabriel Returns: Set-Piece King Strikes

(17:29) – 2–0 | Odegaard Press & Zubimendi’s Class Finish

(20:23) – Merino’s Second-Yellow Escape Debate

(22:12) – Individual Performances: Left-Side Struggles

(24:53) – 3–0 | Trossard’s Finish & VAR Frustration

(26:06) – 4–0 | Jesus Scores: Emotion, Message & Momentum

(29:20) – 4–1 | Late Sloppiness & Raya’s Key Saves

(31:40) – Table Context: Gap Opened, Statement Made

(33:45) – PT.2 Who Am I? (Game)

(35:32) – Rice Injury Leak

(41:15) – GW19: Leeds vs Man United Prediction Game

(46:23) – GW19: Wolves vs West Ham: Relegation Reality

(49:06) – Bournemouth Preview: Selection, Injuries & Risks

(01:00:23) – Who Am I? (Game) Reveal

Arsenal return to the top of the Premier League after a 2–1 win over Brighton, but the performance once again raises familiar questions. The Gunners dominate large spells at the Emirates — racking up 2.8 xG, 24 shots and total territorial control — only to let the game drift into nervous territory late on, with David Raya forced into a crucial save to preserve the win.

We break down a first half that should have put the game out of sight, including missed chances for Bukayo Saka and ongoing concerns around Arsenal’s finishing. Martin Ødegaard scores his first goal of the season in trademark fashion, while Declan Rice adapts to an unfamiliar role and Arsenal’s structure continues to generate chances without the ruthless edge to kill games.

The second half sees a worrying 15-minute spell where Arsenal retreat, stop engaging high up the pitch, and invite Brighton back into the contest. We discuss Raya’s intervention, the defensive adjustments that followed, and whether this “control then retreat” pattern is becoming a recurring issue.

There’s also frustration with refereeing decisions, including a controversial challenge on the goalkeeper and VAR inconsistencies across the weekend. We cover all the major talking points from Gameweek 17 in Whip Around the Grounds, with results from Manchester United, Manchester City, Liverpool, Chelsea, Aston Villa and more.

In VARse, we analyse key officiating decisions from Old Trafford, the City Ground and Stamford Bridge, ranking what was contentious, what was ridiculous, and where the laws continue to be applied inconsistently.

Finally, we look ahead to Arsenal vs Aston Villa. With Villa winning games while being outshot and outperforming their xG, and Arsenal struggling to convert dominance into comfort, we assess the tactical battle, injury concerns, likely line-ups, and what Mikel Arteta must get right this time around.

Chapters:

(00:00) – Arteta’s Non-Negotiables Intro

(01:40) – #ARSBHA Pre-Match, Injuries & the Return of Big Gabi

(03:18) – Starting XI: Rice at Right Back?

(04:52) – Stats, Arsenal Domination & Missed Early Chances

(07:45) – Saka Shooting Volume vs End Product

(12:12) – Ødegaard’s First Goal of the Season

(15:32) – Chances, xG and Why This Game Should’ve Been Dead

(18:18) – Referee & Goalkeeper Challenge Controversy

(21:42) – Second-Half Control & Set-Piece Pressure

(24:42) – Brighton Goal: Freak Moment or Structural Issue?

(27:26) – Fifteen-Minute Retreat & Loss of Engagement

(28:06) – Raya’s Match-Saving Intervention

(30:02) – Martinelli’s Impact, Late Chances & Full-Time Reflection

(34:34) – Big Takeaways from the Brighton Win

(38:37) – PT.2: Who Am I? (Game)

(40:25) – Whip Around the Grounds: Gameweek 18

(46:39) – VARse: Gameweek 18

(56:04) – Officiating Trends & Referee Inconsistencies

(01:02:23) – Aston Villa Preview: Style Clash & xG Trends

(01:06:39) – Arsenal Line-Up, Injuries & Selection Calls

(01:08:18) – The No.9 Debate & Attacking Balance

(01:22:31) – Nwaneri?

(01:35:21) – Who Am I? (Game) Reveal

Arsenal are through to the Carabao Cup semi-finals — but it didn’t come easily.

In this episode of The Non-Negotiables Podcast, we react immediately to Arsenal’s penalty shoot-out win over Crystal Palace at the Emirates. A dominant first half, 25 shots, and complete territorial control somehow gave way to a familiar story: missed chances, second-half drop-off, and another late twist that forced penalties.

We break down why Arsenal failed to put the game to bed, the ongoing concern around underperforming xG, and how control slipped after the break. There’s discussion on Arteta’s substitutions, trust in squad players, set-piece vulnerability without Gabriel, and what this result says about standards — even in victory.

We also look ahead to a crucial Premier League clash with Brighton, assess where Arsenal are right now in terms of performance vs outcome, and ask whether these fine margins will finally turn — or keep biting.

Plus:

• Immediate reaction to the Palace game

• Penalties, goalkeeping, and late-game management

• Squad depth, injuries, and selection debates

• Brighton preview and weekend predictions

• The return of the Who Am I? quiz

Arsenal progress — but the questions remain.

Chapters:

(00:00) - Arteta’s Non-Negotiables Intro

(01:18) - Pre Match Emotions: Wanting Everything Without the Cost

(03:11) - Line-Up Calls, Midfield Balance & Selection Debate

(06:34) - First-Half Control and Missed Chances

(08:20) - xG Concerns and Failure to Kill the Game

(09:38) - Martinelli Knock and Second-Half Shift

(11:51) - Substitutions, Trust, and the Nwaneri Question

(17:44) - Second-Half Drop-Off and Arteta’s Frustration

(21:32) - Late Corner, Own Goal, and Game State Tension

(25:19) - Set-Piece Fragility Without Gabriel

(27:34) - Penalties: Kepa, Nerves, and Going Through

(32:40) - Match Stats: Dominance Without Ruthlessness

(36:41) - PT.2 Who Am I? (Game)

(38:44) - GW18 Prediction Game: West Ham vs Fulham

(41:15) - GW18 Watch: Chelsea vs Aston Villa

(45:39) - Brighton Preview: Stakes, Injuries, and Selection

(55:05) - Who Am I? (Game) Answer & Closing Thoughts

Episode 155 – Back in Charge: Rice Anchors Arsenal’s Away-Day Response

Arsenal return to winning ways with a controlled, professional 1–0 victory at Everton — a result that mattered as much for how it was done as the points themselves.

Declan Rice sets the tone with a commanding midfield performance as Arsenal quieten Goodison Park, manage pressure moments, and reassert their standards away from home. We break down the structure, the control, and why the scoreline flattered Everton more than it reflected the performance.

We discuss Ødegaard’s role, Arsenal’s chance creation and wastefulness, the penalty decisions, and whether this felt like a genuine reset after recent noise. There’s also analysis on Rice’s influence, Calafiori’s impact, and why this was a quietly important win.

In part two, we whip around the grounds, dive into another busy VAR weekend, address the Arteta contract noise, and look ahead to the Carabao Cup clash with Crystal Palace — including rotation, priorities, and what Arteta might do next.

Control restored. Standards reaffirmed.

Chapters:

(00:00) – Arteta’s Non-Negotiables Intro

(00:54) – Pressure, Context, and the Everton Away Test

(02:52) – Line-Up Calls and Midfield Questions

(07:03) – Early Control and Crowd Management

(10:24) – First Penalty Shout: Soft or Stonewall?

(11:49) – VAR Intervention and the Awarded Penalty

(16:50) – Chances Missed and the Edge-of-Box Issue

(20:52) – Second-Half Sloppiness and the VAR Flashpoint

(26:57) – The Game Should’ve Been Put to Bed

(30:56) – Rice, Zubimendi, and Midfield Authority

(34:09) – Performance vs Scoreline: What the Numbers Say

(39:32) – PT.2 Arteta Contract Noise and Aggregator Myths

(48:30) – Whip Around the Grounds: Gameweek 17

(55:16) – VARse: Weekend Decisions Under the Microscope

(01:01:24) – Spurs, Chaos, and Consequences

(01:07:07) – Title Context: City, Villa, and the Table

(01:11:08) – The Relegation Fight for Survival

(01:15:07) – Palace Preview: Rotation or Full Strength?

(01:25:47) – Jesus, Fitness, and the Run-In

Arsenal’s season raises an uncomfortable question: can you chase everything without losing something?

In Episode 154, the lads debate whether Arsenal should sacrifice a competition to protect the Premier League title push, following the Carabao Cup semi-final draw and growing concerns around injuries and squad load. Is trophy greed a strength — or a trap?

There’s a deep discussion around priorities, risk management, and Arteta’s approach to rotation as Arsenal juggle four competitions with a big squad and notable injury list. The panel disagrees sharply on whether letting one trophy go is pragmatic — or a mindset Arsenal can’t afford.

We also dig into Arsenal’s baffling obsession with long throws: why they slow the game down, increase injury risk, and feel completely at odds with how this team should control matches. Retention vs theatre. Structure vs disruption.

Plus:

• Potential Carabao Cup semi-final vs Chelsea

• Long throws, set-piece logic and game management

• Everton away under the lights: atmosphere, injuries and approach

• A classic Who Am I? and an Everton-themed Six Pack

A tense moment in the season — and a defining one.

Chapters:

(00:00) - Arteta’s Non-Negotiables Intro

(00:55) - Carabao Cup Semi-Final Draw Explained

(01:34) - Should Arsenal Let a Trophy Go?

(06:18) - Squad Load, Injuries & Arteta’s Rotation Risk

(10:44) - Ordering the Trophies: What Matters Most

(14:30) - Is Sacrificing a Cup Ever Acceptable?

(19:01) - Long Throws: Why Arsenal Keep Doing Them?

(19:43) - The Stats, the Time Wasted & Loss of Control

(21:19) - Rory Delap Legacy vs Modern Arsenal

(23:15) - Injury Risk, Game Management & Common Sense

(25:59) - Retention vs Chaos: The Man City Comparison

(27:28) - Pt.2 Who Am I? (Game) Arsenal & Everton Edition

(29:49) - GW 17 Prediction Game: Newcastle vs Chelsea

(32:46) - Villa vs Man United: Basketball Football

(37:46) - Jus’ Six Pack: Greatest Arsenal vs Everton Games

(43:20) - Everton Away Preview: Form, Injuries & Atmosphere

(46:21) - How Everton Will Set Up

(47:45) - Arsenal Selection Headaches

(49:25) - Who Starts Up Front? Jesus, Ødegaard & Control

(54:50) - Defensive Setup Without Ben White

(56:14) - Hincapié Deep Dive: Early Verdict

(58:22) - Comparison to Gabriel & Long-Term Ceiling

(01:07:05) - Who Am I? (Game) Reveal & Wrap-Up

The result said “win”. The conversation said something else entirely.

In this episode of The Non-Negotiables Podcast, the lads use Arsenal’s narrow victory over Wolves as a springboard to address deeper issues that have been building beneath the surface. Rather than focusing on the match itself, the discussion centres on selection decisions, misaligned roles, and why performances are starting to feel disconnected from standards.

There’s an honest, sometimes uncomfortable conversation about trust within the XI, why certain profiles aren’t fitting the games they’re being picked for, and how old habits — late-game retreat, lack of control, and reliance on fine margins — appear to be creeping back in.

With pressure increasing at the top of the table, the episode questions whether Arsenal are managing rhythm, load, and structure effectively, and what needs to change quickly to prevent results masking performance issues.

Also discussed:
• Selection fit versus opposition
• Midfield balance and tempo problems
• Confidence, trust, and responsibility within the squad
• Whip Around the Grounds and title-race context
• Takahiro Tomiyasu’s move to Ajax
• Squad depth, injuries, and AFCON implications

A reflective, standards-led episode focused on why this win felt wrong — and what Arsenal must correct to realign performances with expectations.

Chapters:

(00:00) – Arteta’s Non-Negotiables Intro
(01:11) – Expectations vs Reality: Wolves at Home
(02:37) – Team Selection Under the Microscope
(08:15) – Gyökeres Debate: Trust, Confidence & Role
(23:15) – Eze, Martinelli & Misfit Roles
(29:00) – Merino’s Usage and Tempo Concerns
(31:46) – Old Habits Creeping Back
(37:44) – Match Stats
(38:15) – The Positives
(41:15) – Part Two: Time Off for the Squad
(44:06) – January Window & Defensive Depth Worries
(48:00) – Whip Around the Grounds
(54:56) – Title Race Context & Rivals’ Results
(58:26) – Newcastle, Spurs, Relegation & Emile Smith Rowe
(01:02:49) – Tomiyasu to Ajax
(01:05:28) – AFCON, Asian Cup & Fixture Disruption

Arsenal head to Belgium, win 3–0 at Club Brugge, and continue their run at the top of the Champions League League Phase. Two goals straight into the top bins set the tone, with Madueke delivering his standout performance, Martinelli adding another European moment, and Zubimendi and Odegaard controlling the night despite heavy rotation at the back.

We break down the selection calls, Timber and Saliba’s fitness, Nwaneri’s role, Jesus’ return, and a Champions League debut for 16-year-old Marley Salmon. Then attention turns to Wolves at the Emirates — injuries, expected XI, and why this is a must-handle Premier League fixture.

Plus: Justin’s Six Pack (the hidden roles driving Arsenal’s season), Liverpool’s ongoing issues and the Salah situation, Brighton’s form wobble, the Tyne–Wear derby, and this week’s Who Am I.

All Arsenal. No noise.

CHAPTERS:

(00:00) – Arteta’s Non-Negotiables Intro

(01:31) – Full XI Breakdown

(04:38) – Nwaneri’s Minutes and Midfield Role Debate

(05:50) – Bright Start: Odegaard Sharp, MLS Hits the Post

(08:45) – Madueke’s First Goal: Strength, Confidence, Top Bins

(10:59) – Corners, Set-Pieces, and Brugge Growing Into the Game

(13:04) – Raya vs Kepa: Why Arteta Went Strong in Goal

(15:08) – Half-Time Feelings

(16:00) – Second-Half Lift: Zubimendi Assist, Madueke Header

(17:14) – Martinelli’s Goal: Champions League Specialist

(20:30) – Subs Arrive: Jesus Returns, Calafiori Impact, Nwaneri Sharp

(23:38) – Nwaneri’s Pathway & Competition for Minutes

(25:25) – Raya’s Key Saves & Brugge’s Late Threats

(27:18) – Context: Rotation, Missing Rice, and Unusual Back Line

(28:31) – Marley Salmon’s Champions League Debut

(29:25) – By The Numbers: Shots, xG, Possession, Defensive Issues

(32:00) – Odegaard’s Return: System Reset & Misunderstood Narrative

(35:04) – PT.2 Who Am I (Game)

(36:42) – Jus’s Six Pack: Hidden Roles Behind Arsenal’s Season

(39:52) – Premier League Preview: Liverpool vs Brighton & The Salah Situation

(42:41) – Salah, Carragher, and What’s Really Happening at Liverpool

(49:04) – Slot, Alonso, and Liverpool’s Managerial Future

(51:00) – Prediction Time: Liverpool vs Brighton

(51:36) – Tyne-Wear Derby Preview: Sunderland vs Newcastle

(54:29) – Arsenal vs Wolves Preview: Line-Up, Injuries & Expectations

(55:37) – Rotation vs Full Strength: What Arteta Should Do

(58:26) – Fitness Concerns: Timber, Saliba, and Managing the Back Line

(01:05:12) – Could Salmon Get Minutes vs Wolves?

(01:07:44) – Who Am I (Game) Reveal

“Seconds From Safety: Arsenal Stung at the Death as Villa Steal It Late”

Arsenal were seconds away from leaving Villa Park with a point… and then it happened.
A late, chaotic finish hands Villa the win, and The NN Pod are here for the therapy session.

Ells steps into hosting duties with Justin and special guest Del as the guys break down:

• The final-kick loss and why it stung so badly
• Playing with four fullbacks and the strain on Rice & Zubimendi
• What’s going on with Christian Nørgaard?
• Trossard’s impact, Saka’s night, and the tired legs across the squad
• Why the reaction after the whistle matters more than the loss
• Mo Salah’s explosive interview and Liverpool’s unraveling
• The Quintero twins — who they are, where they come from, and why the academy move is huge
• Club Brugge Preview

Arsenal drop points, emotions run high, but the standards stay the same.
NN — we move.

New episodes every Monday & Thursday at 8pm.

Chapters:

(00:00) – Arteta’s Non-Negotiables Intro
(02:42) – Pregame Atmosphere
(05:34) – AVLARS Starting XI Breakdown
(07:46) – Early Moments, Two Through Balls
(10:12) – Two Chances, Two Saka Offsides
(12:26) – Two Villa Chances… Villa Take the Lead
(15:47) – Two Arsenal Chances: Growing Into the Game
(18:30) – Half-Time: Double Sub & Tactical Reset
(21:18) – Trossard’s Equaliser & Immediate Impact
(24:35) – Second-Half Control, Villa’s Counters & Game Management
(27:38) – Calafiori’s Booking & Wolves Suspension
(29:29) – Saka’s Frustration & Madueke Sub
(30:16) – Midfield Burnout: Rice & Zubimendi Cooked — Where is Nørgaard?
(37:06) – The Madueke Chance
(38:39) – Villa’s Winner: Last-Kick Chaos
(43:51) – By the Numbers
(44:34) – Away Form, Four Fullbacks & Tactical Experiments
(50:20) – PT.2 – GW14 Results
(52:43) – Table Check & Title Picture
(54:12) – Relegation Battle Overview
(56:32) – “That Interview”: Mo Salah’s Bombshell
(01:01:44) – Slot, Trent & Liverpool’s Crisis
(01:04:42) – Salah’s Ego & Legacy Fallout
(01:07:23) – The Quintero Twins
(01:10:33) – Ecuador Pipeline & Academy Focus
(01:12:37) – Club Brugge Preview
(01:14:01) – Rotation Needs & Who Should Start
(01:17:49) – Nwaneri’s Minutes & Role Questions

2 In, 2 Out? — Arsenal Beat Brentford and Prepare for Aston Villa

Arsenal took a needed three points against Brentford, but the story of the night was the balance between what went in and what went out. Merino’s header and Saka’s late strike gave Arsenal the goals, yet Rice and Mosquera joining the injury list kept the tension high in a game that should have been far more routine.

We break down the full picture: why the match felt messy in real time but looked controlled on the rewatch, how Timber and Calafiori quietly re-established structure, and why the left-side role debate is becoming one of the defining conversations of this Arsenal season. From Martinelli’s fit, to Trossard’s ownership of the role, to Eze’s natural connection inside — it’s all here.

Part Two brings the Who Am I, a whip around the grounds (including Fulham vs City chaos and Leeds humbling Chelsea), and a VARse featuring two officiating moments.
Then it’s on to Saturday at Villa Park — a huge December fixture, a tough stylistic matchup, and another test of Arsenal’s depth during a brutal run.

Measured, detailed, and Arsenal-first — exactly how we do it.

Chapters:

00:00) – Arteta’s Non-Negotiables Intro
(01:10) – PSA: Arsenal Cannot Lose the Title!
(02:21) – Starting XI & Immediate Reactions
(03:41) – The Left-Side Debate: Martinelli, Trossard, Eze & Roles
(07:12) – Early Control: Ben White, Madueke and the Opening Goal
(09:12) – Momentum Shifts & Raya’s Big Save
(11:03) – Ref Decision, Missed Chances & Madueke’s Final Ball
(14:33) – Rice, Running Power & the Repeated Sprint Problem
(19:48) – Timber at Centre-Back & Backline Adaptations
(20:21) – Second Half: Corners, Pressure & Arteta’s Response
(25:07) – Rice’s Injury Scare & Midfield Management
(28:59) – Calafiori Brilliance & Saka’s Big Miss
(32:58) – Saka’s Redemption: 2–0 Arsenal / Merino Master of Space
(38:24) – By The Numbers: Game State vs Game Feeling
(40:10) – PT.2 Who Am I (Game)
(41:28) – Whip Around the Grounds (GW14 Results)
(47:34) – VARse: Two Officiating Talking Points
(55:09) – League Picture: Leaky Defences & Wolves’ Historic Pace
(59:24) – Villa Preview: Injuries, Lineups & Tactical Threads
(01:09:26) – Prediction Game: Sp*rs vs Brentford
(01:10:50) – Who Am I (Game) Reveal

Arsenal leave Stamford Bridge with just one Premier League point after a chaotic afternoon defined by early bookings, a makeshift back line, and a referee who lost control long before Caicedo finally saw red.

We break down the six cautions, the way Zubimendi’s early yellow changed our midfield, the impact of Odegaard’s introduction, and Merino’s equaliser that shifted the momentum — plus the late chance for Gyökeres and Timber that could have won it.

Despite the frustration, it still caps off a huge week for Arsenal: the derby win, the Bayern performance, and now a hard-earned point with Saliba, Gabriel and Trossard unavailable.

In Part Two, we roll through a midweek Who Am I?, a full WATG recap, VARse (including the Alvarez penalty rule?), and a look ahead to Wednesday night’s match against Brentford — a must-win before the trip to Villa Park.

Settle in for a grounded, honest review of a fiery London afternoon and what it means for the week ahead.

Chapters:

(00:00) – Arteta’s Non-Negotiables Intro
(00:58) – Battle at the Bridge: Setting the Scene
(01:49) – Lineup Changes & Saliba’s Late Withdrawal
(03:11) – Chelsea’s Fast Start and Cucurella’s Free Hits
(04:48) – Six Arsenal Bookings and a Referee Out of Control
(07:10) – Caicedo’s Red Card and the Play-Acting Debate
(08:59) – Chelsea’s Tactics: Diving, Disruption, and Referee’s Impact
(11:58) – Arsenal’s First-Half Chances & Sanchez’s Spills
(13:01) – Conceding Early in the Second Half
(14:58) – Subs: Odegaard’s Impact & Madueke’s Struggles / Left-Side Chemistry Issue
(19:00) – Merino’s Equaliser: Saka’s Brilliance & Odegaard’s Spark
(20:30) – Arteta’s Sub Decisions: What Worked & What Didn’t
(23:20) – Final Chances: Gyökeres Collides with Sanchez & Timber’s Header
(24:22) – Was This Still a Good Week for Arsenal?
(27:48) – By the Numbers & Big-Picture Reflection on the Chelsea Draw
(29:08) – PT.2 Who Am I? (Game)
(30:55) – Whip Around the Grounds – GW13
(38:25) – VARse: GW13 (The Alvarez Rule & Referee Standards)
(47:51) – What the Weekend Results Mean for the Top Four
(49:44) – Spurs’ Collapse & Vicario Chaos
(52:14) – West Ham, Paquetá & the Red Card Meltdown
(56:50) – Brentford Preview: Form, Goals, and Key Threats
(59:19) – Should Arsenal Rotate? The Rice Question
(01:01:24) – Merino, Gyökeres & How We Should Set Up vs Brentford
(01:03:16) – Why This Is a Must-Win Ahead of Villa
(01:04:31) – Prediction Game: Brighton vs Aston Villa
(01:08:21) – Who Am I (Game) Reveal

Arsenal beat Bayern 3–1 at the Emirates, and the lads jump on the mics straight after full-time for instant reaction. Gav, Ells and Jus break down the line-up, Bayern’s early spell of control, Timber’s opener, and 17-year-old Karl’s equaliser before getting into how Arsenal completely took over the second half.

There’s praise for Rice, discussion on Lewis-Skelly’s positioning, big love for Merino, and full chat on the game-changing impacts from Madueke, Calafiori and Martinelli as Arsenal closed out a huge Champions League win.

Part 2 brings Who Am I?, the GW13 prediction game, and a Thanksgiving-themed Six Pack celebrating six reasons to be grateful for Arteta and the standards he’s built.

The episode closes with a detailed Chelsea preview — line-up debates, the Madueke vs Martinelli question, Odegaard’s status, Calafiori’s importance, Chelsea’s threats (including Estevão and “Angry Matt Dillon” Neto) and what Sunday could mean for Arsenal’s title position heading into December.

Chapters:

(00:00) – Arteta’s Non-Negotiables Intro
(01:40) – Line-Up Reaction
(03:27) – Bayern’s Early Possession
(05:20) – Timber’s Goal
(07:09) – Saka Agendas
(08:56) – Eze Chance Debate
(10:21) – Bayern Equalise
(11:37) – Skelly’s Positioning Talk
(13:46) – Half-Time Thoughts
(15:45) – Rice Takes Over the Second Half
(16:58) – Madueke In for Trossard / Missed Chances
(19:51) – Noni’s First Goal for Arsenal
(22:08) – Calafiori Masterclass / Merino Flowers
(24:50) – Martinelli’s Goal
(26:23) – By The Numbers: Arsenal Dominate
(29:07) – PT.2 Who Am I? (Game)
(30:27) – GW13 Prediction Game
(33:35) – Six Pack (Arteta Thanksgiving Edition)
(36:17) – Chelsea Preview
(37:52) – Line-Up Debate: Martinelli, Noni or Trossard?
(39:03) – Odegaard Decision: Start or Bench?
(43:09) – Chelsea’s Threats: Estevão & Angry Matt Dillon (Pedro Neto)
(44:50) – Title Race Positioning After Bayern & Chelsea
(46:35) – Arteta’s Standards & Mentality Talk
(49:51) – Who Am I (Game) Reveal & Sign-Off

Arsenal went to work in the North London Derby — and Spurs got cooked. Eze delivered a historic hat-trick at the Emirates, Timber put on a right-back masterclass, Rice ran the entire midfield, and Arteta’s men produced one of the most dominant derby performances in years.

We break down every detail of the 4–1 demolition: Spurs’ fear-ball shape, the space Eze kept finding, Trossard’s movement, Zubimendi’s role, and why this felt like the moment the league finally had to admit Arsenal are on another level.

Then in Part 2, we whip around the grounds for Gameweek 12, including Forest’s demolition job at Anfield, Brentford–Brighton chaos, Bournemouth–West Ham drama, City’s latest stumble, and Palace’s thunderbastard at Molineux.

And of course — it’s VARse time. From offside confusion to deliberate handballs to Newcastle’s creative rule interpretations, Ells breaks down another wild week of PGMOL clownery.

We close with a full Bayern preview: injuries, rotation worries, the psychology of revenge games, and how Arteta will approach a heavyweight Champions League clash during Arsenal’s best form of the season.

A derby rout. A hat-trick hero. A title statement. North London stays red — permanently.

Chapters:

(00:00) – Arteta’s Non-Negotiables Intro
(01:15) – North London Derby: Pre-Match, The Angel, The Tifo & Emotional Build-Up
(04:45) – Rocky Memories, Rivalry & Respect
(07:03) – Arsenal Line-Up: Hincapié Gets The Nod
(09:12) – Returning Players: Martinelli, Odegaard & Hope
(10:42) – Spurs’ Deep Block & Early Arsenal Chances
(16:14) – Moreno’s Ball, Trossard’s Goal: 1–0 Arsenal
(20:02) – Arsenal’s Second Goal: Timber, Rice & Eze Magic
(22:46) – Offside Controversy? Keeper View Debate
(25:39) – Halftime Inside The Emirates
(26:45) – Goal 3: Eze’s Left-Foot Goal
(28:12) – 3–1: Richarlison Scores
(32:04) – Timber’s Big Miss & Game Control After Concession
(33:09) – Eze Completes Historic NLD Hat-Trick (4–1)
(37:48) – Trossard’s November Brilliance & Player of the Month Talk
(38:53) – By The Numbers & Dominance Breakdown
(41:46) – Are Arsenal “Announcing Themselves” This Season?
(46:26) – Part Two: Whip Round the Grounds
(54:36) – VARse GW12
(01:10:45) – Table Impact: Arsenal Go 6 Clear
(01:15:11) – Relegation Picture: Bottom Three Taking Shape
(01:16:28) – Who Gets Sacked First: Frank or Slot?
(01:23:57) – Bayern Munich Preview: Injuries, Selection & Stakes
(01:26:40) – Rotation Debate: Timber, Hincapié, Calafiori Concerns
(01:28:55) – Arteta’s Mentality vs Squad Protection
(01:34:35) – Champions League Swiss System & Big Teams Dominating

Bad News Break Over — North London Mode Activated

The international break is finally over — and Arsenal return with more bad news than a transfer window under Unai Emery.

Odegaard setbacks, Gabriel scares, Havertz delays, and Hincapié jet-lagged into oblivion… it’s been chaos from start to finish.

Ells and Gav sift through every injury update, every rumour, and every bit of international nonsense before switching into full North London Derby mode. What does Calafiori’s fitness really mean? Is Gyökeres the cavalry? And how on earth do Arsenal navigate a derby with half the squad wrapped in ice packs?

We also touch on:
• Ethan Nwaneri’s filthy U21 lob
• Tierney and McTominay going full ’98 mode
• The end of “Visit Rwanda” and a new tech sleeve sponsor incoming
• Rage-bait injury accounts and Arteta’s cloak-and-dagger training pics
• Newcastle v City, United v Everton and the weekend’s best/worst fixtures
• The Who Am I? special — with storytime

It’s derby week. Spirits rising. Pies incoming.

Chapters:

(00:00) – Arteta’s Non-Negotiables Intro
(01:00) – International Break Concludes & Injury Chaos
(03:28) – Nwaneri’s U21 Lob & Youth Confidence
(05:16) – Odegaard’s World Cup Qualification Joy
(06:34) – USA 2026 Ticket Prices & Football Culture
(09:43) – Fans, Fandom & The US Football Experience
(12:29) – Tierney’s Screamer!... Scotland Qualify!
(14:48) – McTominay, Napoli & Development Paths
(17:21) – International Minutes: Merino, Hincapié & Jet Lag
(19:06) – Training Pictures, Rumours & Arteta Secrecy
(21:26) – Rage-Bait, Fake Injury Updates & Twitter Clout
(23:52) – Should the Premier League Copy NFL Injury Reports?
(26:28) – Visit Rwanda Deal Ends – New Sleeve Sponsor Incoming
(30:45) – Part Two: Who Am I? (Game)
(32:05) – PL GW12 Fixtures Overview
(42:21) – Arsenal v Spurs Preview: Injuries Everywhere
(44:12) – Gyökeres Priority, Odegaard Bench Hope
(45:54) – Who Fills In for Big Gabby?
(48:04) – Merino as False 9, Plaster Falling Off?
(49:51) – Fixture Pile-Up, Bayern & Champions League Strategy
(53:00) – Calafiori Fitness Hope, Gattuso Comments
(53:58) – Solbakken PTSD & Odegaard Availability
(54:50) – Michael Oliver Appointed for the NLD
(58:43) – Where Are the Good Emirates Pies?
(01:00:01) – Who Am I? (Game) Reveal!
(01:00:46) – The Day Sol Joined Arsenal (Storytime)

Gav’s away living it up in Ohio, so Ells and Justin take the reins for a packed international-break episode — the last one of the year (thankfully).

We start with a full Arsenal international rundown: every minute, every goal, and every storyline, including Zubimendi’s finish, Saka and Eze’s strikes for England, the strange media reaction, and Saka joining the Three Lions’ leadership group.

Then we get into the bad news:
Gabriel’s injury, Calafiori being sent home, and the growing list of attackers still out. From Jesus and Martinelli to Havertz, Madueke and Ødegaard, Justin and Ells break down what it means for the squad, who can cover, and why this stretch already feels like a battle of survival.

We also dive into the Maurizio Miceli rumours, the shifting shape of Arsenal’s recruitment team, and how the club is trying to sharpen its talent-identification pipeline. Edu era, Berta era, head of football intelligence… we get into all of it.

There’s time too for the Premier League vs UEFA spat over Boxing Day fixtures, a look at who’s already qualified for the World Cup, and a full “us vs us” comparison — last season vs this season after eleven games. Points, goal difference, tough fixtures, Opta predictions, and how the injuries frame everything we’re seeing.

Finally, we preview the brutal block ahead: Spurs → Bayern → Chelsea → Brentford → Villa, and what Arsenal need to survive it.

Another international break in the books — Thursday we shift fully into North London Derby mode.

International goals, media bias, injuries everywhere and Miceli rumours — Arsenal’s season is starting to feel like survival mode.

Chapters:

(00:00) – Arteta’s Non-Negotiables Intro
(03:41) – Arsenal Players on International Duty: Full Recap
(08:59) – Media Bias, England Coverage & Player Treatment
(12:43) – Bukayo Saka Joins England’s Leadership Group?
(15:03) – Arsenal World Cup Qualification Check: Who’s In, Who’s Not
(18:12) – Injury Update: Gabriel & Calafiori Concerns
(25:20) – PT.2 Recruitment Department: The Miceli Rumours Explained
(27:55) – Can ‘1–2 Year Early’ Signings Work at Arsenal?
(30:36) – The Hale End Difference & Player Development Windows
(31:48) – Selling Smart: Liverpool, Chelsea & Arsenal’s Model
(33:58) – Edu Era vs Berta Era: What’s Changed?
(35:32) – Who is Maurizio Miceli? Profile & Napoli Track Record
(38:32) – Premier League vs UEFA
(42:22) – Us vs Us: Season-on-Season Comparison (24/25 vs 25/26)
(46:42) – Opta Predictions: Arsenal 65% Favourites? Are We Better?
(50:50) – Next Block of Fixtures: Full Run-In Assessment

Arsenal hit the international break with bruises, questions, and a surprising amount of noise — so the boys sit down to break it all apart.

We get into Myles Lewis-Skelly vs Thomas Tuchel, Calafiori’s “hip-gate,” and why Italy insist on keeping him hostage for a dead rubber. We also check in on the England U19s, Odegaard’s situation with Norway, and the growing trend of Arsenal players getting targeted by the media.

Then it’s on to the big talking point of the week:
the Everton fixture chaos, the Palace reschedule, and whether Arsenal have quietly signalled their intention to go for all four competitions. Spoiler: the logistics for travelling fans is messy.

In Part Two, the lads deliver mid-season department report cards — grading every unit of the squad from goalkeeper to coaching staff — before Justin drops a perfectly timed Six-Pack on the best international breaks in Arsenal history.

Plus: Saka’s leadership, Haaland chat, City’s 115-plus charges, and whether Arteta’s obsession with winning everything is genius… or slightly terrifying.

Stay locked. Arsenal returns soon — and the run ahead is huge.

Chapters:

(00:00) – Arteta’s Non-Negotiables Intro
(00:52) – England U19s: Max Dowman’s Penalty Debate
(02:18) – Calafiori’s Injury & Italy Drama
(03:58) – Players’ Perspective on International Duty?
(09:25) – Myles Lewis-Skelly vs Tuchel & England Selection Politics
(16:11) – Saka Speaks: “External Noise Changes Like the Weather”
(19:56) – Injury Update Round-Up
(24:01) – Part Two: Everton Fixture Moved to Saturday Night
(30:54) – Arteta’s Ambition: Going for All Four Competitions?
(35:19) – Rotation, Trust & Ben White Discussion
(38:30) – Department Grades: Goalkeepers
(40:48) – Fullbacks
(43:26) – Centre-Backs
(46:17) – Central Midfield
(49:39) – Wide Men (Wingers)
(53:10) – Forwards
(57:17) – Coaching Staff
(01:01:45) – Justin’s Six Pack: Best-Timed International Breaks
(01:07:34) – Haaland, City Charges & Title Race Dynamics

A bruising trip to the Stadium of Light ends with two dropped points — and plenty to dissect.

Gav, Ells and Justin break down Arsenal’s 2–2 draw at Sunderland, from the elbow on Moreno and missed chances to the fatigue creeping into Arteta’s injury-hit squad.

The lads debate Trossard’s thunderbolt, Rice’s role in the opener, and why Arsenal still looked a level above even on tired legs. There’s chat on Arteta’s substitutions (or lack thereof), Ethan Nwaneri’s curious situation, and what the break means for Odegaard, Havertz and the cavalry to return.

After that, Whip Around the Grounds brings chaos across the league — Spurs and United share the comedy, Chelsea finally turn up, Villa keep flying, and Wolves look doomed. Then in VARse, the team rate the weekend’s biggest officiating controversies at Villa Park, the G Tech and the Etihad, with Craig Pawson, Michael Oliver and Howard Webb all getting their turn in the chair.

The show wraps with talk on the title race, Liverpool’s collapse, the relegation scrap, and how Arsenal’s depth and injuries could define what comes next.

Conceded, but not defeated — Arsenal stumble in Sunderland yet stay top and ready to reload after the break.

Chapters:

(00:00) – Arteta’s Non-Negotiables Intro
(00:55) – Sunderland Line-Up & Early Expectations
(02:30) – Physical Battle & Early Elbow Incident
(07:48) – Ballard’s Opener & Defensive Errors
(09:19) – Saliba’s Missed Chance Before Second-Half Response & Saka’s Equaliser
(11:20) – Trossard’s Screamer & Arsenal Lead
(13:23) – Fatigue, Injuries & Substitution Debate
(17:09) – Ethan Nwaneri’s Role & Arteta’s Stance
(20:39) – Sunderland’s Late Equaliser
(23:05) – Calafiori Chance & Frustrations with Game Management
(24:50) – By The Numbers & Perspective on the Draw
(27:31) – Craig Pawson’s Refereeing Display
(30:32) – Set-Pieces, Long Throws, Missed Chances & Dropped Points... Still 1st!
(34:19) – PT.2 Whip Around the Grounds
(42:33) – VARse: Incidents at Villa Park, G Tech & Etihad
(57:56) – City’s Dominance & Liverpool’s Collapse?
(1:03:16) – Spurs vs Man Utd Comedy Show
(1:04:43) – Amorim’s Manager of the Month Debate
(1:07:52) – Relegation Battle Rundown
(1:12:52) – Arsenal’s Season So Far & Confidence Check
(1:16:49) – Managing Odegaard’s Return & Squad Rotation
(1:20:04) – Do Arsenal Need Another Striker?
(1:25:34) – Looking Ahead: Heavy Fixtures & Hopeful Returns

Arsenal’s unbeaten run in Europe rolls on as Arteta’s men leave Prague with another clean sheet (just about!). The lads break down a dominant Champions League win over Slavia, Merino’s goals, Rice’s control, and the tactical tweaks that kept Set Piece FC thriving.

We also react to some of the poorest officiating you’ll ever see — including the moment that nearly ended the “Clean Sheet FC” streak 😂

Then it’s back to Premier League business, as we preview Sunderland away and the emotional return of Granit Xhaka. Plus our EPL Game Week Preview, featuring Palace–Brighton and City–Liverpool.

Chapters:

(00:00) – Arteta’s Non-Negotiables Intro
(01:03) – Champions League Win in Prague & Starting XI
(02:47) – Nwaneri vs Eze: Data, Roles & the Ødegaard Effect
(07:42) – Squad Rotation & Arteta’s Tactical Adaptability
(11:06) – Slavia Prague Match Review & Penalty Decision
(14:25) – Merino’s Goals and Finishing Class
(18:36) – Referee Chaos and Max Dowman’s Champions League Debut
(21:52) – VAR Drama & Maintaining the Defensive Run
(25:08) – Declan Rice Masterclass
(27:58) – By the Numbers & Champions League Progress
(31:55) – PT. 2 – Who Am I (Game)
(33:01) – EPL Weekend Preview
(41:31) – Jus’s Six Pack: Arsenal’s Scariest Defensive Signings
(45:59) – Sunderland Preview & Facing Xhaka
(1:06:28) – Who Am I (Game) Reveal

#Arsenal #UCL #TheNNPod #COYG

Gav, Ells and Jus break down Arsenal’s 2–0 win at Burnley, where Declan Rice ran the show and Set Piece FC struck again. From Gabriel’s assist streak to Gyökeres’ link-up play (and that “did he mean it?” pass), the lads unpack another dominant performance as Arsenal make it nine straight wins in all competitions.

They also tackle the fixture congestion madness, Boxing Day scheduling chaos, and a full Whip Round the Groundscovering all the Premier League drama — from Spurs’ latest wobble to Liverpool and City shaping the title race.

Plus, there’s a look ahead to Slavia Prague, with thoughts on rotation, Rice management, and how Arteta keeps momentum in Europe. Expect Arsenal insight, sarcasm in doses, and the usual VARse chaos.
#Arsenal #AFC #TheNNPod #COYG

Chapters:

(00:00) – Arteta’s Non-Negotiables Intro
(01:05) – BURARS: Starting XI and Tactical Setup
(01:53) – Set Piece FC Strikes Again
(08:21) – Saka’s Finishing & Demand for Goal
(09:57) – Counter Attack Masterclass & Debate: Did Gyökeres Mean That Pass?
(13:13) – Managing the Second Half at Walking Pace
(19:32) – Signs of Fluid Football & By The Numbers
(24:31) – Nine Straight Wins & Staying Grounded
(31:43) – PT.2 Fixture Congestion: Palace Scheduling Nightmare
(38:41) – Boxing Day Tradition and Premier League Calendar Frustrations
(44:10) – Whip Round the Grounds – GW10
(52:27) – VARse – The Circus is in Town
(59:31) – Liverpool, City and the Title Race Taking Shape
(1:01:08) – Spurs Meltdown & Thomas Frank Under Pressure
(1:07:12) – Relegation Battle Forming at the Bottom
(1:09:35) – Slavia Prague Preview: Rotation, Rice Risk & How to Line Up

Gav and Jus break down Arsenal’s 2–0 win over Brighton that sent the Gunners into the Carabao Cup quarter-finals, before turning their attention to this weekend’s Premier League trip to Burnley.

They also look across the league at a few standout fixtures, talk squad depth, and discuss Saka’s continued evolution — plus another round of the Who Am I? game.

And Jus debuts his brand-new segment “Justin’s Six Pack”, already a contender for fan-favourite status.

Chapters:

00:00) – Arteta’s Non-Negotiables Intro
(01:02) – Brighton Review: Youth, Rotation & Kepa
(04:58) – Nwaneri & Dowman – Talent and Temptation
(08:55) – Second-Half Control and Set-Piece Drought
(13:01) – October Perfection & Carabao Cup Draw Reaction
(18:16) – Squad Depth and Arsenal’s Second XI Debate
(23:00) – PT.2 Who Am I? (Game)
(24:10) – Weekend EPL Preview
(36:43) – Justin’s Six Pack – Surprise Players of the Season
(40:38) – Burnley Preview – Injuries, Selection & Weather Check
(44:56) – Saka’s Evolution and Goal Burden
(48:29) – Timber’s Offensive Growth & Right-Side Synergy
(52:36) – Odegaard’s Absence and Return Impact
(54:11) – Who Am I? (Game) Reveal!