Former Republic of Ireland striker Tony Cascarino has suggested that Arsenal could surpass Chelsea’s long-standing Premier League defensive record. Referring to Mikel Arteta’s side as the “anaconda team” because they “literally suffocate you,” the pundit believes their current form positions them to potentially break the record for the fewest goals conceded in a single campaign, which stands at 15.
This speculation follows Arsenal’s 2-0 victory against Sunderland at the Stadium of Light on September 12. During the match, goalkeeper David Raya denied Enzo Le Fee from the penalty spot before substitute Bruno Guimaraes netted the opener. Bukayo Saka later added a stoppage-time penalty following a foul by Reinildo Mandava, who was subsequently dismissed.
The victory was the fifth time in six games across all competitions—and the third time in four league outings—that the Gunners have kept a clean sheet. This defensive stability draws comparisons to Jose Mourinho’s 2004-05 Chelsea squad, which set the record of 15 goals conceded while securing the title. Chelsea later matched their own high standards the following season with 22 goals against, a defensive tally later equalled by Liverpool during the 2018-19 season.
While the Gunners showed early promise last term by conceding only once in their opening four fixtures, they ultimately fell short of challenging the historic Chelsea mark. Reflecting on that standard in January, Chelsea legend John Terry noted the difficulty of such a defensive achievement. Arsenal currently sits in a strong position, having won all six of their opening fixtures across all competitions.
Looking ahead, Arsenal prepares to travel to Ipswich Town on September 15 to begin their EFL Cup campaign, a tournament in which they reached the final last season. Meanwhile, Chelsea is coming off a 2-2 home draw against Hull City. Xabi Alonso’s squad, who remain in the mix, are scheduled to visit Brentford on September 18. The report also notes that the Blues had conceded a measly 15 times en route winning the 2004-05 Premier League title under Jose Mourinho.
