A look beyond just the halls of the Emirates and deeper into the issue, and it is clear that one of the main reasons for this continuing struggle which leaves Arsenal fans crunching distastefully into the familiar bitter pill of failure is defensive inconsistencies and calamities.
Arsenal have conceded the most goals inside the top four of the Premier League in every single season for the past six years. Over those six seasons, they have conceded a total of 236 goals - a stark contrast to the most successful team throughout those six years, Manchester United who conceded just 171. As a result, over those six seasons, Arsenal averaged a 'goals against' total of 39.5 in comparison to United's 28.5.
Three games into the new season however, and things look strikingly different. It may be early days in this season but Arsenal currently hold the honour of being the only professional side in English football yet to concede a goal. As we have been comparing Arsenal with United, it is only fair to mention that in those three opening games, United have conceded 5 goals with their defence looking very shaky in the absence of key defenders.
Could this very welcome show of defensive solidity be down to Steve Bould? The former Stoke and Arsenal defender was promoted from his position as Head Youth Team Coach at Arsenal to Arsene Wenger's assistant manager before the start of the season as a result of Pat Rice's retirement. Known for his "dominant, uncompromising performances" as a player in a career spanning 20 years, the hope had no doubt been that he could pass on his knowledge and know-how in defensive situations to the Arsenal players.
It seems to have worked so far with a defence which looks stronger and more resilient, and players who have someone to organise them and teach them what they need to know about the art of defending. Arsenal's young defender Carl Jenkinson noted Bould's positive impact after their first win of the season against Liverpool. He said:
"Steve [Bould] has come in and he's been there and done it. He's always there giving us advice and tips, and we've had a long pre-season to work together and get our shape right. If you look at our midfield, the midfield three, and the wingers, they were outstanding in their defensive duties. It wasn't just a back five, the whole team defended brilliantly and I think that's what's making the difference at the moment."
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, another Arsenal youngster, has also been impressed with Bould's work with the team: "Steve's come in and filled the spot really well. He's got respect from the lads as a good defender for Arsenal, and a good personality. He's stamped his mark on the whole team. At Arsenal we have a lot of the ball and we get carried away when teams sit in, and we are easily countered, but we've nailed that down this season. The flair play is in our DNA but Steve has come in and everybody's bought into it."
The Arsenal back-line experienced no personnel change over the summer, so clearly the opening three games' clean-sheets have been down to improved understanding of defensive duties - not just in the back line but the whole team.
If this form can be continued and the sides new attacking players can step up the goals in order to appease the departure of last seasons goal machine, Robin van Persie, Arsenal may finally be able to look at their trophy cabinet with pride once again thanks to crucial defensive discipline, understanding and balance.
Such a display will bring fond memories back to the 2003/04 season in which Arsenal were crowned not just Champions of England and not just the undefeated Champions, but undefeated Champions who conceded the least amount of goals out of every team in the League.
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