The narrative that Arsenal consistently crumble in April under Mikel Arteta is a popular one, especially after a frustrating defeat. But is it actually true? A closer look at the last four seasons reveals a story far more nuanced than the lazy stereotype suggests.

Following the recent loss to Bournemouth, the reaction in some quarters was predictably intense. Calls for change at the top seemed extreme for a team sitting first in the Premier League with just six games left. The core argument from critics is clear: if Arsenal don't win the title this year, it will mark four consecutive seasons of falling just short, supposedly proving Arteta can't handle the pressure of the run-in, particularly in April.

This sounds reasonable on the surface, but the reality of each campaign tells a different story. Rewind to the 2022/23 season. Arsenal weren't expected to be title contenders at all; their blistering form was a surprise to everyone. Their season did feature a wobble in April, including a heavy defeat to Manchester City, but to label the entire campaign a "bottle job" ignores the context of their remarkable overachievement.

Fast forward to the current season, and the context has shifted entirely. Arsenal entered as genuine contenders. Their form in the decisive final stretch has been nothing short of spectacular, winning their last six Premier League matches with statement victories over rivals like Chelsea, Tottenham, and Manchester United. The title race has been agonizingly close, often hinging on results elsewhere. This isn't a collapse; it's a team pushing the champions to the absolute limit.

So, while a single bad result can fuel a familiar narrative, the broader picture under Arteta shows a team that has evolved from surprise packages to relentless challengers. The story of their Aprils is less about an inherent flaw and more about the fine margins and immense pressure at the very top of the world's most competitive league. The final chapter of this season is still being written, but the evidence suggests this Arsenal side is built for the fight.