Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta faces a major concern ahead of his side's Premier League clash with Nottingham Forest at the City Ground, according to a report by Sports Mole on October 18, 2026. Arsenal have failed to score before half-time in their last five matches across the Premier League and Champions League. This raises concerns about their slow starts ahead of the encounter with Forest.

The North Londoners have relied on their second-half performances to make the difference. Within the period, Arteta has benefitted from the introduction of key players such as Kai Havertz, Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka. However, their inability to score early could become a problem against stronger opposition, particularly in European competitions.

Arsenal's record at the City Ground also presents another challenge for Arteta's men ahead of Sunday's encounter. The Gunners have won just once in their last six visits to Nottingham Forest across competitions. It should be noted that their last two trips to the venue ended in goalless draws. Furthermore, Arsenal have failed to score in four of their last five visits to Forest's home ground.

Despite their disappointing record at the venue, Arsenal will hope to secure a victory and strengthen their position in the Premier League. Arteta will therefore hope his players can start strongly, break down Forest's defence and avoid another frustrating outing away from home.