Published: 02:00, 27 February 2026 | Updated: 02:00, 27 February 2026

Arsenal have picked up an unhealthy habit in 2026. Self-destruction.

If that seems a little harsh on a team currently five points clear at the top of the Premier League, consider that they are second in another table.

Only rivals Tottenham have conceded more goals from errors this calendar year (five to Arsenal's four), with a streak of costly lapses threatening to undermine the Gunners' momentum.

Had it not been for the emphatic 4–1 scoreline against Spurs last weekend, this dangerous pattern might already have been laid bare. Instead, the winning margin that day masked an issue which has been lingering in the background.

On Sunday, Declan Rice was the culprit, uncharacteristically giving the ball away to Randal Kolo Muani outside of the area, ahead of the Frenchman's equaliser.

Coming from a man who has been so dependable for Arsenal all season long, the error felt significant. 

Arsenal players have made four errors leading to goals in 2026, with Declan Rice (left) at fault for Tottenham's equaliser on Sunday

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