Cannon Stats - The Analytics Podcast

On this episode of the Cannon Stats podcast, Adam and Scott return after a Christmas break for a high-level discussion on Arsenal's recent form, dismissing finishing concerns, spotlighting key players, and previewing the massive upcoming clash with Aston Villa. They dive into why the "wasteful finishing" narrative is shallow, highlighting forced own goals, strong shooting thwarted by great saves, and elite underlying process. Conversations on Viktor Gyökeres' adaptation, Bukayo Saka's world-class creation and shot volume despite low-end product, the league-wide reality of "uncomfortable" wins, and optimism for a statement result against third-placed Villa to close out 2025. If you are interested in an ad-free experience, you can upgrade at Cannonstats.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of the Cannon Stats podcast, Adam and Scott break down Arsenal's kick in the balls loss against Aston Villa. It is a need catharsis and a nice way to get back to some analytical thinking about the match. The podcast goes through the second-guessing decisions that could have been made, the match key moments, hits on the individual performances and looks ahead to some chances for rotation. If you are a premium subscriber, you can listen to an ad-free version through Substack or you can add to your preferred podcast app through the personal RSS feed. One of the other topics referenced was Gyokeres who has a tendency to not always run out every situation, which Adam saw in the film while he was at Sporting. ⁠Film Study: Putting Arsenal's striker links head-to-head⁠ If you enjoyed this podcast and want to leave a review or rating, that would be much appreciated. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of the Cannon Stats podcast, Adam and Scott break down Arsenal's draw against Chelsea, breaking down the big talking points, pre-red card Arsenal being outplayed? Post red card Arsenal getting a goal back but just playing decent? A bit on some of the individual performances and some big picture talk. It's a full podcast and the start of the busy season for Arsenal. If you want to have an ad-free version of the pod,cast you can upgrade to a premium subscription at CannonStats.com Part 1 focuses on the period before the red card, Part 2 looks at the second half, the final part is a bit of a big picture look at things. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of the Cannon Stats podcast, Adam and Scott break down Arsenal's win against Tottenham, revel in the losses of Liverpool and Manchester City, do a mini power rankings and then look ahead to Chelsea and Bayern Munich. It's a packed podcast after one of the more delightful weekends of the season. Part 1 focuses on the match with Tottenham, Part 2 looks at Liverpool and Manchester City's matches, the final part is looking ahead for the rest of the season, and the key matches Arsenal have in the next seven days. If you haven't yet, you can help us out by taking the quick survey below: Give us feedback Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of the Cannon Stats podcast, Adam and Scott break down Arsenal's draw away at Sunderland, hitting the main points of the match, the individual performances, and have some big picture views of the Premier League after the weekend's action. If you are a premium subscriber, you can listen to an ad-free version through Substack (also you can add to your preferred podcast app) on CannonStats.com Part 1 focuses on the match; it is a tale of two halves performance for Arsenal. Arsenal start slowly again and here it hurts them. In the second half Arsenal showed great resilience to fight back and end up conceding late as they ran out of gas. One of the big topics here is the use of the substitutes and what could have or should have been done. Part 2 hits on the individual performances here, looking at Leandro Trossard, Bukayo Saka, Martin Zubimendi, and Eberechi Eze. The Eze chat goes well with the latest post on the newsletter here looking at how he is playing the “10” role. The final part is a bigger picture view of how our opinions have changed on these two teams, plus a view into Manchester City vs Liverpool. If you have any feedback, please share it with us. Also, you can help us out by leaving a review. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of Cannon Stats Podcast, Scott and Adam discuss Arsenal's 9th straight win against Burnley. They also hit on how Eberechi Eze has interpreted the role of right 8/10 for Arsenal and how that compares to Martin Odegaard. Things finish up with a look at when we should start thinking about Arsenal as one of the best defenses of all time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of Cannon Stats Podcast, Scott and Adam dive headfirst into Arsenal's blistering 4-0 demolition of Atletico Madrid in the Champions League. This was a match that shattered expectations of a dour, Simeone-style snoozefest. The lads break down Arsenal's dominant performance, from Zubimendi's masterclass to Martinelli's resurgence. They tackle media gripes about set-piece “ruining football,” and preview a tricky trip to Crystal Palace. Here is the link to the Ryan O'Hanlon article that was mentioned in the podcast. https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/46662849/set-pieces-ruining-premier-league-helping-arsenal-throw-ins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The mailbag episode is a staple of the international break but this time we decided to spice it up asking for you all to not only give your questions but also your hottest takes. For this we had to agree or disagree, no middle ground and it led to some tough position taking. This was real fun episode and worth a listen. The first half of the episode is the hot takes, and the second half is the more traditional mailbag. Thank you to everyone who sent in questions. Love the pod? Subscribe on your favorite platform, rate/review, and join the Discord for debates. Feedback? Reply to our newsletter or hit us on social media. Yeehaw! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

There was a great discussion on the Cannon Stats discord (you should join, it is fun and free) about Bukayo Saka's cumulative minutes and what that means for his future. It was so good that Adam and Scott decided to go even longer on that topic in today's podcast. In this meta-focused episode, Scott and Adam shake off international break boredom with high-level chats on Arsenal's stars. They dive into Bukayo Saka's heavy minute load and career longevity, unpack the randomness of injuries (with fresh Arteta quotes), debate if Martin Ødegaard is “injury-prone,” and reflect on Mikel Arteta hitting his 300th match amid lingering fan discontent. Expect tire metaphors, RAF pilot stories, and optimistic vibes about Arsenal's title push—despite the banter from rivals. https://www.cannonstats.com/p/saka-and-the-30k-minute-cliffOn the Saka minutes, https://www.cannonstats.com/p/saka-and-the-30k-minute-cliff He's been among the highest played players at each age, but he's also been among the best players, and the best players play a lot. What this might mean is that given that the general trend is that players have about 30-35k peak league minutes in them that we are at about the halfway point with Saka. There are exceptions to this and we can hope that Saka is that but this is where things are at for right now. Below here are the main quotes from Arteta on injuries that we mentioned on the podcast. Areta on predicting injuries: “There is a lot of randomness in an injury that we don't know,” said Arteta. “Sometimes I've been with a player that I wanted to put the finger into something that it was very clear. “And then I realised three months later that he had a problem with his wife or he didn't sleep or his kid [didn't sleep] for three days, and then he got injured, and I say: ‘I've been scratching my head for one month trying to do that, and then I found out that this was the real reason'. “There are a lot of factors we're trying to control, dominate and be aware of what we can predict. But unfortunately, this is sport, football and life, and it's not that easy. Arteta on preventing injuries: “There is a push when people are trying to accelerate. So to replicate that in training, especially when a player is playing every three days, is very, very difficult. “The thing is that you have to replicate all the previous actions. You have to replicate the motion, the stress level, your cortisol level, your mental state, the results. “It's about replicating the context. I can replicate to go and say I predict that these shares are going to go up three per cent. That's great. But would you put the money in real or would you go online and do it? It's very different.” “For example, when Gabi Magalhaes gets injured, a lot of people say he comes from Brazil and does that,” said Arteta. “But Gabi had to chase 50 metres backwards chasing against Adama Traore. If, instead of Adama Traore, that was Emile Smith Rowe, with all respect, probably he doesn't pull his hamstring. Love the pod? Subscribe on your fave platform, rate/review, and join the Discord for debates. Feedback? Reply to our newsletter or hit us on social media. Yeehaw! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Cannon Stats podcast is back and the mood in Arsenal land is positive with Arsenal closing the gap on Liverpool while slaying two bogey teams in the process. Things are looking up for Arsenal, while they are looking down for Liverpool who are hitting their first patch of adversity under Arne Slot. Adam and Scott are together here talking about the standout performances from Arsenal's matches against Newcastle and Olympiacos. There is a lot of good overlap and positives to take from both games. The second part of the episode looks ahead to what might be the softest part of Arsenal's schedule all season after they made it through the rough opening set of fixtures. Arsenal's Next five is West Ham (H), Fulham (A), Crystal Palace (H), Burnley (A), and Sunderland (A) before the November international break. There are no easy matches in the Premier League, but this might be the least challenging overall. This is also a chance to pick up points on what Arsenal did last season, where they managed just 8 points from these five, losing twice and drawing one. What makes this especially tantalizing is that this “easy” run corresponds with Liverpool and Manchester City looking at some challenging fixtures. The next five matches are shaping up as a major opportunity for Arsenal to potentially take the lead in the Premier League, and if things break right, maybe even open up a bit of a gap. That all starts this weekend with Arsenal hosting West Ham and their new manager. If you enjoy this episode, please give us a rating and a review as it is always something that helps more people be able to find our show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Everyone is talking about it and asking about it, where you go in the Arsenal world it seems like you can't escape hearing that Arsenal have been too conservative or that the team is playing with the handbrake on too much right now. When these things happen, that makes for a good opportunity for an examination if this actually holds water and that is exactly what Scott and Adam do here in the latest Cannon Stats podcast. The podcast focuses on the City Lineup and a discussion of if they set up wrong. That leads into the Merino/Rice midfield question and if that grouping works for Arsenal or not. The last major question goes into a more high-level view if the way that Arsenal play under Arteta is calibrated correctly or not. Here is the post that Adam wrote, looking deeper into the Rice Merino midfield questions, that is well worth your time. ⁠You're not being told the full story about Merino-Rice⁠⁠ Here is the link to the post Scott talked about on if Defense wins Championships. Does Defence Actually Win Titles? The second half of the podcast touches on what we can learn from Arsenal's League Cup win over Port Vale and then looks ahead to the weekend matchup against Newcastle. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Adam goes solo, breaking down week 1 of the Champions League. Going deep on Arsenal's win against a tough Athletic Club and hitting on all of the other matches from Tuesday and Wednesday, Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of the Cannon Stats Podcast, Scott and Adam chat about the news of a new but familiar manager at Arsenal's next opponent, the rotation that will be needed as the schedule flips into the twice a week cadence, and then looks ahead to the Champions League. The first segment of the podcast looks ahead to Arsenal's match against Nottingham Forest. The preparation has been thrown into disarray as they have sacked Nuno Espírito Santo this week and replaced him with Ange Postecoglou. We look at how much we expect them to change in the short period between the change and how Arsenal might react to this. In the second segment, we look ahead to the return of the Champions League, looking at the high-level goals and then into more details about Arsenal's first opponent, Athletic Club. Last there is a discussion about how Arsenal and Arteta will approach this part of the schedule now that the team has stocked up on depth. Things end with a few quick-fire questions. If you enjoy the podcast, be sure to leave a like and review, be sure to add us on Spotify or to your favorite podcasting app. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this special bonus episode of the Cannon Stats Podcast, Scott has the pleasure of being joined by Clive Palmer, a familiar voice from the Arsenal Vision Podcast, to dissect Arsenal's 2023/24 Premier League season and the issue that the team had dropping points with 14 total draws. The episode hits on an overview of the draws, the key themes and patterns that emerged, whether this is a systemic issue or a one-off, and what Arsenal have done this summer that can make sure it doesn't repeat. This podcast is a continuation of a nice back-and-forth that Clive and I have had, where he really helped push me and gave me feedback to look into this issue. That turned into this post, which was published in August: ⁠https://www.cannonstats.com/p/learning-from-all-of-arsenals-draws⁠ The timing for this second look was perfect because we can now see some of what has come from the lessons learned by the club and what potential solutions the strengthened squad presents. The discussion begins by analyzing the opponents in Arsenal's 14 draws, which included five against ‘Big Six' teams and five against low-block sides. Looking at if the tactical setup is a factor in these specific matchups and if there are changes required. The timing of the draws is the next area of focus; six draws in the first half of the season (two with red cards) and eight in the second half of the season leads to the question on if squad depth or injuries played a significant role in the total number. A major focus is Arsenal's struggle to hold leads, with nine of the 14 draws coming after taking the lead. The team dropped 21 points from winning positions, the seventh-most in the Premier League in the 24/25 season and tied for their worst under Mikel Arteta and in Arsenal's record in the Premier League. Arsenal converted only 67% of leads into wins last season, compared to 79% across Arteta's tenure, prompting questions about whether this was a one-off or a symptom of deeper issues. The episode also examines Arsenal's late-game struggles, particularly in the final 15 minutes of matches where they drew. In the first 75 minutes, Arsenal boasted the third-best attack, with the best defense; their attack dropped to 10th in the closing stages, despite maintaining the league's best defense. This raises questions about whether injuries and limited squad depth were the primary culprits or if tactical and mental factors contributed. In the final segment, the conversation shifts to whether Arsenal's summer signings have addressed these issues. Clive shares his thoughts on what he has seen so far this season, as Arsenal have tried tactical tweaks, and whether early signs in the 2025/26 season's first three matches show progress. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of the Cannon Stats podcast, Scott and Adam get together to chat about the end of the Transfer window, talking about the winners and the losers, recapping the big six business, oh and we talk about the actual match that happened as well. The first part of the podcast focuses on the trip to Anfield. How we reacted to the lineup, are we second-guessing anything that the team did. Then we talk about how our view of the two main title challengers has changed after this data point. If you missed it, here is the stuff we wrote after the match. https://www.cannonstats.com/p/first-thoughts-liverpool-a https://www.cannonstats.com/p/liverpool-vs-arsenal-the-debrief I came into this match wanting to measure Arsenal up against Liverpool and how the teams looked as they are set for what hopefully will be a season-long battle for the Premier League title. Arsenal's performance at Anfield seemed to further divide the multiple camps among club supporters, if that was possible. The club left with a 1-0 loss and sit third in the Premier League headed into the first international break of the season (hooray!) Next, we look at the overall business done by Arsenal in the transfer window. Rating the incomings and talking about the strategy and if the team filled all the holes. Then it is time for the outgoings before doing a big picture view. Adam's post on the transfer window is a must-read and gives more detail on teams that we don't hit in the podcast as well. https://www.cannonstats.com/p/who-won-the-premier-leagues-historic Last, we break down the big winners and losers from the non-big six clubs, going through which clubs impressed and which clubs left us wanting more. The final item is going through and ranking the big six clubs for the overall business done. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of the Cannon Stats podcast, Scott and Adam get together to chat about the newest link Piero Hincapié, the big match against Liverpool, and some quick hits. With Hincapié, it is happening again as Arsenal let Spurs think that they have a player before they ara patted on the head and reminded of their spot in the food chain. Adam did a film review of the player and helps get us up to speed on the player, going through the strengths and weaknesses, plus how his game can translate at Arsenal. Film Study: Piero Hincapié - by Adam Rae Voge In the second half, the two talk about the trip to Anfield. Arsenal are injured but the timing might favor the gunners as Liverpool still look like a major work in progress so far. They chatted about the lineup, the tactics and expectations for the match. Things finish up with some quick hits. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of the Cannon Stats Podcast, Scott is joined by Andrew Beasley from andrewbeasleyfootball.com‬ to discuss the defending Champions ahead of the clash between Liverpool and Arsenal this weekend. The podcast covers a bit on last season, going over just how good Liverpool were in their title-winning season and what needs that left them to address this summer. That leads into the busy summer that they have had with 4-5 new starters coming into the team, and how the team is changing as it shifts from a Klopp team to a Slot team. The second half looks at how the current start of the season is looking and how the team is working through growing pains with the new additions. The last part is a look more specifically on how the Arsenal team can give them problems and what we should expect from this match. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of the Cannon Stats podcast, there are no shortage of topics, and the main ones will be the big breaking news from today and that is the signing of Eberechi Eze and the joke somehow always being on Tottenham. Adam and Scott start off touching on the Kai Havertz injury and then the breaking news that Arsenal made an 11th hour swoop to steal Eberechi Eze from Tottenham Hotspur. We break down what this means for Arsenal, where he plays, who he plays instead of, and the big picture of how this move came to be. We also talk about the not so good news of potentially losing Havertz for an extended period of time and what impact that will have on Arsenal and the extra pressure it puts on Gyokeres. In the second part of the show, the topic moves to the game that was actually played. We talk about the changed Arsenal, the worries we have from the performances, and then chat about the debuts in the match. Last, we turn our attention to the rest of the big six and how they fared this weekend. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Get ready for the Premier League season with the Adam and Scott. The duo use the over/under betting odds to go through all 20 teams. Then they bring out their hotest take for the Premier League and give their favorites for the sack race. After that they switch gears and look at Arsenal with which of the key position battles will have the player make the most starts. Gyokeres/Havertz Martinelli/Noni/Trossard/Other White/Timber MLS/Calafiori Lastly there is a discussion on the importance of the captain and how things looks in light of the comments from Tony Adams on Odegaard and Arteta. Here are the numbers that were used for the over/under if you want to follow along. (we started from the bottom) Liverpool 79.5 Arsenal 78.5 Manchester City 78.5 Chelsea 70.5 Newcastle Utd 59.5 Manchester Utd 59.5 Aston Villa 57.5 Tottenham 57.5 Brighton 54.5 Bournemouth 47.5 Everton 47.5 Nottingham Forest 47.5 Fulham 46.5 Crystal Palace 46.5 West Ham 45.5 Brentford 41.5 Wolves 41.5 Leeds United 37.5 Sunderland 29.5 Burnley 27.5 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A special bonus podcast with Mike Goodman of the Double Pivot and CBSSports.com to get everyone ready for the start of the Premier League Season. Scott and Mike make this a power rankings-based preview (everyone's favorite), going through the "Rich Seven" setting the stage for the 2025/26 season. In this episode, we let Mike set the rankings (although they don't massively deviate from Scott's view) and talk through the summer business, how the squads look, and what questions we are looking to try and get answered about each team this coming season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Adam and Scott are back from their summer break to talk about all of the Arsenal news in this stuffed episode of the Cannon Stats podcast. This episode covers an update to preseason, the worry that is still present in the attack, key performances and the underlying frustration around the team that hasn't seen radical change this summer. Part 2 looks at Arsenal's ability to sell and if that is a problem for the team. This is becoming a bit of a worry and it is worth examining deeper on if this is the question would should be asking: how Arsenal are doing compared to our peers and if this is something that matters in the grand scheme of things? Things wrap up with an examination of the incoming buisness and how we would rate things if the window closed today on the additions. There is also a good chat about the debate if the group of Marinelli/Trossard/Madueke is a good enough group for left wing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Arsenal didn't hold up their end of the bargain dropping a new player bomb on us the day that we were recoding this time but there is still a lot to talk about as Arsenal get ready to head off to Asia.In this episode Adam and Scott chat what Arsenal are getting in Gyokeres, the Ethan Nwaneri new deal and do some quick hits on transfer news around the top teams.Episode breakdown:Getting to know Gyokeres* State of the deal* Strengths* Weaknesses* ExpectationsEthan Nwaneri signing* Reacting to the good news* Where does he even play and does a loan make sense?Overall Business Done in the Premier League* Alexander Isak to Liverpool or maybe just kidding* Hugo Ekitike to Newcastle, oh wait actually Liverpool* Manchester United to get Bryan Mbuemo for a lot of money This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.cannonstats.com/subscribe

Arsenal deliver again! There is no stopping the news and Adam and Scott are here to talk about the singing of Noni Madueke from Chelsea. The transfer is in the final stages and it is reported as a 52 million deal and it's not confirmed but could be something along the lines of 40m-45m + add ons.This isn't quite the bargain that we hoped for but looking at the comps this isn't a bad deal either with Madueke measuring up strongly compared to other players that have moved at a similar age this season withing or too the Priemer League* Elanga 55m* Kudus 55m* Gittens 55m* Pedro 60The podcast tries to break down the big stuff on the player- Strengths* Shooting* Carries and dribbles* Touches close to goal* Speed and transition threatWeaknesses* Final action* Passes from good locations in the box/crossing* Injury historyOne of the open questions on the deal is the actual fit For Arsenal* Is this just right wing rotation or is this both wings move?* At the end of the season for Chelsea he played more left wing but he has primarily been an inside forward cutting inside.* Is this a Raphinha comps and or something similar to Sane as a same sided high shot volume wingerRamifications of the deal* Do you think this limits other moves?* Ethan impactFinally the fan reaction to the move, should we care? This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.cannonstats.com/subscribe

The Cannon Stats podcast comes to you on this busy July 4th Holiday to breakdown all of the latest for Arsenal. We are once again thankful for the club keeping us busy with things to talk about this summer. This episode hits on Eberechi Eze, Takehiro Tomiyasu's Departure, Cristhian Mosquera and more!Eberechi Eze to Arsenal?This is the main section of today's podcast and it is a meaty subject to hit on.* The guys views on Eze* Fit at Arsenal, where does he play and how much?* Expectations?* Transfer Pricing: Is Eze's £68m release clause (£60m + £8m add-ons) fair?Takehiro Tomiyasu's DepartureThis was sad news to see announced, Arsenal and Tomiyasu have mutually agreed to terminate his contract.* Legacy* ImpactCristhian Mosquera: The Replacement?Valencia's 21-year-old center-back (1.8 clearances, 88% pass completion) could replace Tomiyasu for £20m. We analyze his fit as a ball-playing defender and long-term potential alongside Saliba. Transfer Quick Hits* Ethan Nwaneri: Contract talks for the 18-year-old* Noni Madueke: Arsenal eye Chelsea's £50m winger?* Gyokeres vs. Sesko: The saga continues with maybe news of Gyokeres becoming more favored This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.cannonstats.com/subscribe

Join us on the Cannon Stats Podcast as we dive into Arsenal's imminent signing of Brentford captain Christian Nørgaard for something in the range of £10m-£15m. In this episode, hosts Scott and Adam unpack the transfer's implications, Thomas Partey's looming exit, and whether the Gunners' squad is stronger for it.This is obviously the big news of the day and it is complimented nicely by the written content that Adam and Scott have done already on this.Rough timeline for the episode:[2:00–8:00] Initial Reactions to the news[8:00–15:00] Partey's imminent departure[15:00–25:00] Squad Impact: Does Nørgaard improve Arsenal? Have Arsenal stood still, gotten better, or basically stayed the same?[25:00–40:00] Adam's Film Session: Adam breaks down Nørgaard's tape and helps us understand what exactly we are getting in the player[40:00–50:00] Stats & Expectations: What does a good season look like for Nørgaard when we look back in June of 2026 on the coming season? This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.cannonstats.com/subscribe

The Cannon Stats podcast is back talking about the fixtures for Arsenal.The view of the overall schedule, what is the take on how things look? It's a tough start, is that good? bad? just a thing?Then there is talk about the state of the transfers and a bit about what is going on among the other teams in the league.The second half feature your questions and they are some good ones. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.cannonstats.com/subscribe

Adam and Scott get together to give out grades.Before jumping to the grades, they go through the latest transfer stories talking about the moves that have been made and the latest rumors for Arsenal.In the second half of the show it is about the grades from the start of the season and an outlook for next year. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.cannonstats.com/subscribe

Arsenal can't get any deals over the line so we have stepped in and drafted Adam to run Arsenal's business and he wasted no time getting Arsenal all set for the 2025-26 season.Before jumping straight into the moves, Adam and Scott chat about some of the latest rumors for Rodrygo and Kepa.At around the 10 minute mark Adam starts with his sales and he is a bit surprising with these and the total volume of moves.Next Adam goes through and makes the contract extensions that needs to be done.Finally, about 25 minutes we get to what everyone wants with the incoming deals.Overall, Adam spent 175 million net and put together a very strong team. Let us know what you think of the team after it is all done. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.cannonstats.com/subscribe

On this addition of the Cannon Stats Podcast Adam and Scott get together to chat about Arsenal's squad and the plan for the summer. They play a fun game where they have to keep the player, be open to listen for offers, or kick them out of the club selling for any price. It is a nice way to go over the player's season contributions and do a bit of squad planning ahead of the Summer window opening up.The second half of the podcast is about the latest transfer news with a discussion on Martin Zubimendi and Benjamin Sesko. It is great to chat about both players and how the fit within the Arsenal team.Rough Running order0 - 2: Into2 - 11: A bit of Meta discussion on transfers12 - 50: Keep, Listen, or Sell51 - 61: Zubimendi Discussion62 - End: Sesko Discussion This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.cannonstats.com/subscribe

Adam and Scott get together to have a bit of a therapy session, reliving Arsenal's match against Paris St. Germain.We go through the opening 15 minutes, where Arsenal's tweaks and pressure nearly got them an early that could have changed the game. We got through the big moments and our reactions to the action.Then we get a bit meta talking about how this is a game, more than most, where the results are driving the view and where we think that anlayis leaves you missing important context around the way the teams played here.Finally, there is some discussion about was Arsenal the best team in this competition like Arteta said and could it have been different with a new striker in Janurary.Hopefully this will help you move forward with whatever your feeling are after this match. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.cannonstats.com/subscribe

Join us on Cannon Stats Podcast as we dissect Arsenal's 0-1 loss to PSG in the Champions League semi-final first leg, discuss tactical tweaks for the return leg, analyze their semi-final scoring drought, and preview the Bournemouth clash with a Premier League top five update. Timeline Breakdown:* 0:00–5:00 | Intro: Welcome, episode overview, and Arsenal's PSG defeat context.* 5:00–25:00 | Arsenal vs. PSG Analysis: PSG dominated the first 20 minutes (75% possession, Dembele's 4th-minute goal). Arsenal rallied in the middle 40 (xG 1.5 vs. PSG's 0.1, Merino's disallowed header), but faded late, with PSG missing chances (Barcola, Ramos).* 25:00–35:00 | Tactical Tweaks for Paris: Partey's return to free Rice/Merino/MLS, exploiting PSG's home losses (e.g., Nice, Villa), and managing Dembele's potential injury.* 35:00–45:00 | Semi-Final Scoring Drought: Arsenal's fictional six-match goalless streak in semi-finals signals a mental block, critical for Paris.* 45:00–105:00 | Bournemouth Preview & Top Five: Arsenal (2nd, 67 pts) face Bournemouth (10th, 50 pts) to secure second over Newcastle (62), Man City (61), Chelsea (60). Plus some discussion on the Europa and Conference Leagues. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.cannonstats.com/subscribe

Adam and Scott get back together to chat about Arsenal's 2-2 draw against Crystal Palace.It was a disappointing and pretty low-quality display but does it matter? The big topics from the match:* Kiwior shining after a run of games* Trossard looking sharp as the false nine* Any worries about the defense or just a one offThe next topic is about Arsenal's chances for staying in the top 5 and in the top 2. We give our thoughts on the outlook, while looking at the rivals end of season fixtures and what points total Arsenal needs to feel safe.To finish in the top 5, the magic number is probably 68 points and almost certainly 70 points for Arsenal. To finish 2nd, they probably need 73-75 but could scrape it at a lower number.Adam wrote up a post today on what this could mean.The last topic is a look ahead to PSG. The different position battles, thoughts on how the game will go, and a prayer that this doesn't go to penalties because neither of our hearts could take it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.cannonstats.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.cannonstats.comIn this special episode of the Cannon Stats podcast, Scott is joined by Jake Entwistle to dive talk about the youths.This episode explores Arsenal's thriving Hale End and the striker options to suplant the perhaps unrealistic target of Alexander Isak. The first half unpacks Hale End's golden generation, spotlighting Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly.

Adam and Scott are back to give an analytical deep dive into Arsenal's Champions League heroics and beyond! Fresh off a stunning 3-0 win over Real Madrid in the quarter-final first leg, we unpack the tactics, standout performances, and what lies ahead fro Arsenal.It is a full show with things starting with with Arsenal's Emirates masterclass, with a tactical breakdown, second-leg strategy, rankings of all the potential other teams in the CL, and a short weekend preview vs. Brentford.Arsenal dominated with 12 shots, 64% field tilt, and 2 big chances. Declan Rice's two free-kick golazos and Mikel Merino's clinical finish sealed the rout. We analyze Arteta's high press, Jakub Kiwior and William Saliba's defensive solidity, and the brillance of Myles Lewis-Skelly. Was this Arsenal's best under Arteta? The best in the Emirates era? At the Bernabéu, should Arsenal press or protect their lead? We explore countering Mbappe and Vinícius Jr., set-piece defense, and lineup choices. Arteta's “half-time” mantra aims to keep focus amid 80,000 fans and a trip to a place none of these players have been to with Arsenal.We then spend the second half going through each of the other teams in the Champions League doing a quick power rank and talking through their first leg matches.Like, subscribe and do all that great stuff. Thanks for Listening! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.cannonstats.com/subscribe

Adam and Scott get together to chat about the latest news in the Arsenal world. That of course, means we get to chat about the injury to Gabriel Magalhães.* How does the club cope with him out?* Is it Kiwor next man up or something more exotic?* How much blame does the club have for this and the other hamstring injuries?Hamstring Injuries in context:Arsenal are a bit above average (3.8 and 3.5 median) this season with there 5 total injuries. 3 of Arsenal's have been to the level that they decided to go to surgery but it is one of those where we can't really say with confidence that these were grade 2 or 3 injuries here.Then, there is the other big news with fresh links to Viktor Gyökeres. This has been a more divisive link than many I remember in recent times and that means it makes for excellent fodder for conversation.He has been a topic of our writing previously, which is linked here:The big topics here are about the relative quality of the Portuguese League and how that translates for a player like Gyökeres, because there is no doubt that what he has done there is mighty impressive.The major part here is that the difference between the top teams in Portugal and England is noticeable but it really drops off after you get past the top 4 teams. Elo ratings aren't perfect here (they are also backed up by the Opta team ratings) but it is one of those things where the level is much closer to the Championship than the Premier League.This is backed up by the wages that these teams have as well. Sporting laps the League with what they can pay and then it drops quickly. These are sums that are less than most teams in the Championship.Viktor Gyökeres goals against the top Portuguese teams (in the league): Benfica - 270 minutes, 1 goal Porto - 247 minutes, 4 goals (1 penalty)Braga - 263 minutes, 1 goal 0.58 Non-penalty goals over 8.7 90s played.This dosen't mean that players can't translate from Portugal to the Premier League; I think it just means that it is important to have more skepticism about what the numbers mean and to have larger error bars with an expectation is adjusted down. Here is how the adjusted numbers look compared to Havertz:Thank you for listening! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.cannonstats.com/subscribe

It has been too long of a break and we appologize for that. To make it up, Adam and Scott are coming in with some potential hot take topics here.The duo starts out with a good hypothetical: which players in the world right now would you have serious considerations to replace Martin Odegaard at Arsenal?Adam went with the following: Florian Wirtz, Jamal Musiala, maybe Cole Palmer but not really and a whole bunch of not really sure there is better options.Scott went with the following: Florian Wirtz, Jamal Musiala, Pedri, Jude BellinghamThis is a fun exercise to do because I think you start realizing that while Odegaard might not be the best player in the position, the number of players that are for sure an upgrade, plus don't have some other flaw in their game like their age that tilts things against them, is quite hard.This digs into some of the bigger issues that we have with player discussion in general, especially how familiarity breeds contempt and a bit of grass is always greener with other players. Scott went deep into this topic if you haven't seen it yet, it is worth checking out.With Saka back on the grass and Scott with egg on his face for his pessimism, the next question is how do Arsenal set up and how do they go about setting up for the rest of the season? Also, how do they prioritize things while they are mostly safe in second place and set for Champions League qualification while juggling the Champions League?Should Arsenal move Odegaard? Move Nwaneri? Move Saka to left-back (Joking)? Who is going to be starting striker? It's April 16th at the Santiago Bernabéu what does Arsenal's eleven look like? What if we have a team that we expect to throw a deep block at Arsenal? One the other big bits of news that has hit during our break is the addition of Andrea Berta as Director of Football.It is an action packed episode and glad to get back into the swing of things. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.cannonstats.com/subscribe

It is amazing what a couple of big wins will do for the mood and confidence and optimism around the club.Scott and Adam talk about the back-to-back scintillating performances against two tricky teams in Nottingham Forest and Sporting CP.* The return of Odegaard gets the ball flowing again* The return of healthy fullbacks adds balance* Rotation!Then the conversation turns to how Viktor Gyokeres looked and if our opinions on him changed at all with his performance against Arsenal.Then it is a bigger picture view of the Champions League situation.As the podcast moves into the second half the topic switches to how Arsenal handled the injury and suspension crisis and if the club could have done anything better for that. Last it wraps with a high-level view of the Premier League.It is a full podcast and one that hits on a lot. Lastly, we want to thank all the listeners and subscribers, we just had our 2nd anniversary of the website and still feel blown away by the support.We hope everyone that celebrates Thanksgiving has a good one, and if you don't that you have a wonderful rest of the week. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.cannonstats.com/subscribe

The Cannon Stats podcast is back talking about the Chelsea match:* Overall performance* Blow by blow view* Mikel Merino* Does a draw mean it is over* The infamous Deserve to Win-O-MeterThe second half of the show focuses on the summer business:* Did Arsenal allocate their resources wrong?* Was there better choices to make?* Should Arsenal have kept ESR or Nelson?Some of the links talked about in the show:Merino Film Study:Gyokeres film study:The vibes: This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.cannonstats.com/subscribe

The Cannon Stats Podcast is back by popular demand!Adam and Scott gather to discuss the League Cup match against Preston, highlighting Ethan Nwaneri as the standout player. They express their excitement for his performance and also cover the contributions of Gabriel Jesus, Raheem Sterling, and Jakub Kiwior.The second topic offers a broader perspective on the season thus far, examining Arsenal's performance against expectations, and concludes with a focus on the upcoming weekend match against Newcastle.It is good to be back and we hope you enjoy this episode. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.cannonstats.com/subscribe

I am happy to bring you a special edition of the Cannon Stats podcast talking to a returning guest.He is here to talk about his new newsletter Expecting goals, which looks to take a break from the week-to-week view and dedicate time to studying a particular question that is underappreciated or is something that we “know” or “assume” to be true but don't have a good data to say how much or to what degree or when these things from maybe nothing to something.We have a wide-ranging discussion but the later part talks about the first study that has been published looking at substitute effects.This is something I think is very interesting and something that on a player basis we discount but aren't really sure how much (now we will have a better idea and I will absolutley be borrowing this). This also leads to further questions about what teams do in the face of these substitution effects and is that actually optimal.I have done a little bit of looking at this but like after everytime I talk with Mike, I always feel like there is so much more to try and uncover.Have a listen, consider subscribing, and let us know what you think. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.cannonstats.com/subscribe

Scott and Adam are back after too long of a break to talk about the big topics in the Arsenal world.The attack, the disappointments of playing well but not winning, and basically December.Then it is time to switch focus to the transfermarket where Arenal have still not signed anyone. Come on Edu!But more seriously we give our expectations, the sales that could happen, and the state of the squad going into January. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.cannonstats.com/subscribe

Lots of news to talk about here on an international break. The discussion starts with the biggest news of the day, Everton getting a 10-point deduction for breaking the profit and sustainability rules (FFP).This comes as a bit of a shock because they are the first big Premier League team to come to the punishment phase. After the news broke they published the following statement:What instantly draws attention is the second to last paragraph and I think we are all right there with them.This great and all, and be all accounts Everton have been spending will above their revenues but they are not the only ones.We talk about this and what could and should be done for this situation.Then the discussion turns to Brazil with all the news coming out of that national team, Martinelli scores, Gabriel is blamed, Jesus injury drama.Last everyone's favorite topic transfers. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.cannonstats.com/subscribe

Adam and Scott are back to talk about Arsenal. They give the League Cup the right amount of coverage and really just wonder what is it for and why it even exists as a competition.Then, they talk about injuries and if Arsenal players are injury-prone and how much we should worry and look to ensure there is coverage or a replacement for those players.After the break, it is on to DUELS and what value they have for us.Lastly a look ahead to a big match against Newcastle United. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.cannonstats.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.cannonstats.comAre Arsenal worse? Probably not but certainly different Scott is joined by Jon Mackenzie of Tfio to talk further about his last video, answering the question ‘is Arsenal worse'.

24% of the season has been completed and that is a good time to take stock of where things stand with Arsenal. In this episode Adam and Scott go through the biggest surprises, the biggest disappointments, how the expectations have changed, the rating of the manager, and the main takeaway.Later there is a discussion of the Sevilla match midweek and a look ahead to how Arsenal should cope with the busy schedule of Sheffield United, West Ham, and Newcastle. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.cannonstats.com/subscribe

The Cannon Stats podcast is back with a full slate of things to cover. Chelsea Preview* Chelsea are still dealing with quite a few injuries. Looks like James is a doubt, Borja a doubt, Chilwell out. How will that effect the lineups for both teams?* What to make of their metrics. Good numbers, bad results, easy schedule* They are 4th in expected points, and ranked as the 5th best team in the Premier League in projection model ratings, looking at only this season's data they are tied with Tottenham as the 6th best team.* Adjusted for the strength of the schedule they have played they are 7th.* How should Arsenal line up?Eddie and ToneyThis topic feels a bit never-ending but I did add to it with a look into this on the newsletter. Arteta was also asked about the striker situation and if he would like an out and out ‘Number Nine' with Arsenal."I think having players with different qualities gives you different options and it is always related to the opponent, what behaviors they have, and what other players you have around that number nine.If you have midfielders as wingers wanting the ball to feet, a nine that wants to come to feet, and attacking midfielders that are more holding midfielders, you don't have any threat. If you have a nine that wants to come forward, attacking midfielders are constantly threatening the last line, proper wingers - then it becomes a different threat.You have players in the last line that can progress the play, do you have players in the last line that can link those pockets and make the runs that attract central defenders? It depends a lot on the qualities of all the players - you can't just isolate the nine, you have to see the whole thing; how he connects and what kind of threats and things that you do.Surely if you don't have a big nine inside the box, you lose something. If you're going to start crossing with your full-backs you're going to probably have an issue. But there are many ways to attack and depending on the opponent, maybe that option is better than another one."Last if you are in the area, you should look to join the Midwest Meet Up in the Twin Cities. Adam will look to be there, along with Elliot and Paul from the Arsenal Vision Podcast. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.cannonstats.com/subscribe

The CannonStats Podcast is back after a couple of weeks off to look at a slate of topics that is full considering that we are entering an international break.Things that we can learn from the Manchester City match.How the attack is functioning, is it too much control and not enough jazz, is the trade-off tilted too far towards defense over the attack, how much should we be worried?Next, it is looking at Martin Odegaard and how his production is changing this season. Last it is a look at the striker situation and the always evergreen topic of who Arsenal might be targeting in January. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.cannonstats.com/subscribe

Arsenal and the Champions League were synonymous with each other for a long time and the years in the wilderness were hard to handle so having the chance to be back has not been taken for granted.Adam and Scott talk about the night:* The lineup* PSV attacking Arsenal* Arsenal's attack is back* Raya solidifying his grasp on the number 1 spotNext, it is a discussion on Saka's start of the year and how he can help deliver the big dreams that we have for Arsenal.Last it is a look ahead to the North London Derby this weekend.All that and more on the latest CannonStats Podcast. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.cannonstats.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.cannonstats.comOn the latest bonus episode of the CannonStats Podcast, I am joined by Michael Caley (@MC_of_A on Twitter) of the Double Pivot Podcast to preview the North London Derby coming up on Sunday.We start off lightly talking about how he got into soccer and how he settled on supporting the fighting chickens of Tottenham (don't blame him too much). We then go i…

The CannonStats Podcast is back looking at the news on Bukayo Saka that he might nursing an Achilles injury. Unsurprisingly Mikel Areta has downplayed the severity but that doesn't mean people still aren't worried about it. Here is what he said in his press conference:He's fine. He trained normally today so nothing to report there. Every player has pains or issues. That's normal in elite sports, but nothing to worry about.With the news coming out Adam took a look at what that means for his minute's load, and how other teams have dealt with playing time for their young talisman.That transitions into how much rotation should Arsenal look to do with the Champions League coming back starting next week and a run of 7 matches in 22 days. It is a big run for Arsenal to keep the goals for the season within reach and will tell us quite a bit on how much Arteta plans on using his squad.Last a look ahead to Arsenal's trip to Everton, where things have not gone well for Arsenal going winless in over half a decade.All that and more on the latest CannonStats podcast. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.cannonstats.com/subscribe

Tim from 7amkickoff is back again to talk about the first month of the season. We go through how our perspective on Arsenal and the other top teams have changed from the start of the season with the teams set, and the first four matches in the books.We also take your questions to wrap things up.Hope you enjoy! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.cannonstats.com/subscribe