A penny for managers' thoughts during the international break

International break gives managers time to reflect on form, injuries, and tactics as Arsenal, Man City, and promoted teams assess challenges ahead.

Arsenal sweats on the fitness of Bukayo Saka after the forward limped off in England's loss at Wembley against Greece with what looks like a hamstring problem. (Photo credit: Sky Sports)

The international break affords some managers the much-needed break to evaluate and reflect on past games. Whether you’re soaring high or languishing in the relegation zone, there’s something to think about.

Manchester City doesn’t sit at the top of the log as of today like they were this time last season, and, in actual fact, the top four at this stage last season were made of the champions, Tottenham, Arsenal, and Liverpool. It’s not too far away this season, with Chelsea and Spurs the only ones trading places.

Arsenal, Aston Villa, and Brighton currently hold the same positions as they did at this time last season: third, fifth, and sixth, respectively. This shows consistency in high places, and the trio has the potential to finish even better than they did last season, which should pique the interest of Arsenal fans, as they only have one remaining spot.

As key players participate in the ongoing international break, Mikel Arteta must be hoping he doesn't have any injuries to worry about, as he lost Martin Odegaard to a nasty injury while he was on duty with Norway last time out.

The Arsenal captain was rumored to have suffered a setback in his recovery; this has been debunked, and he is on course to return after the next game round; however, Arsenal continues to sweat over the fitness of Bukayo Saka, who has left the England camp to undergo further tests on his hamstring.

Arteta has a lot to work on; from his set piece routines to the rigorous pressings and ball retention, the next set of fixtures are quite demanding, and if Arsenal wants to go one step further, they must win games consistently.

For the champions, it’s about coping with life without Rodri; the Spaniard is out for the rest of the season, and Guardiola must find creative ways to get results without their glue. Kevin De Bruyne should be available after the break; that will help their attacking options and creativity.

What are they thinking down below? If Southampton doesn't fire Russell Martins, he should focus on improving his defence; it's too vulnerable, and pragmatism could be the key to escaping the drop zone, which also applies to Ipswich Town and Leicester City.

Isn’t it strange that the newly promoted sides have played 21 times—seven each—and have recorded only one win? This situation is disheartening and could potentially lead to relegation; it's not the first time this has happened; the three promoted teams from the previous season were relegated, and they need to ensure this doesn't happen again.