The result said “win”. The conversation said something else entirely.

In this episode of The Non-Negotiables Podcast, the lads use Arsenal’s narrow victory over Wolves as a springboard to address deeper issues that have been building beneath the surface. Rather than focusing on the match itself, the discussion centres on selection decisions, misaligned roles, and why performances are starting to feel disconnected from standards.

There’s an honest, sometimes uncomfortable conversation about trust within the XI, why certain profiles aren’t fitting the games they’re being picked for, and how old habits — late-game retreat, lack of control, and reliance on fine margins — appear to be creeping back in.

With pressure increasing at the top of the table, the episode questions whether Arsenal are managing rhythm, load, and structure effectively, and what needs to change quickly to prevent results masking performance issues.

Also discussed:
• Selection fit versus opposition
• Midfield balance and tempo problems
• Confidence, trust, and responsibility within the squad
• Whip Around the Grounds and title-race context
• Takahiro Tomiyasu’s move to Ajax
• Squad depth, injuries, and AFCON implications

A reflective, standards-led episode focused on why this win felt wrong — and what Arsenal must correct to realign performances with expectations.

Chapters:

(00:00) – Arteta’s Non-Negotiables Intro
(01:11) – Expectations vs Reality: Wolves at Home
(02:37) – Team Selection Under the Microscope
(08:15) – Gyökeres Debate: Trust, Confidence & Role
(23:15) – Eze, Martinelli & Misfit Roles
(29:00) – Merino’s Usage and Tempo Concerns
(31:46) – Old Habits Creeping Back
(37:44) – Match Stats
(38:15) – The Positives
(41:15) – Part Two: Time Off for the Squad
(44:06) – January Window & Defensive Depth Worries
(48:00) – Whip Around the Grounds
(54:56) – Title Race Context & Rivals’ Results
(58:26) – Newcastle, Spurs, Relegation & Emile Smith Rowe
(01:02:49) – Tomiyasu to Ajax
(01:05:28) – AFCON, Asian Cup & Fixture Disruption