‘Erratic’ Hincapie struggles in Chelsea vs Arsenal stalemate

Arsenal staggered to a 1-1 draw against Chelsea, with the Gunners failing to capitalise on their numerical advantage to go further clear on the league table.

Arsenal received a significant blow with William Saliba ruled out, in addition to the loss of Gabriel Magalhaes.

Gunners boss Mikel Arteta was forced to turn to Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapie in the centre of defence.

Unfortunately, the pair, especially the Ecuadorian, struggled at Stamford Bridge.

Hincapie lost all six of his aerial duels and committed two fouls, including an ill-timed elbow on Trevoh Chalobah that could have been escalated.

The Arsenal centre-back/left-back also allowed Joao Pedro in after a poor decision at the back. It was an ‘erratic’ performance. He did not enjoy the best of outings.

Hincapie needs to sort himself out quickly, as the test does not get any easier in the coming weeks for the North Londoners as they bid to end their wait for a league title.

Arsenal welcome Brentford to the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday, and Hincapie will need to be wary of Igor Thiago.

The Brazilian has already bagged 11 goals in the Premier League this season and is more than a handful for defenders.

Hincapie needs to bring his A-game to deal with the threat. He needs to be better in duels and more careful with his challenges.

With Saliba and Gabriel set to be sidelined, Hincapie is set to start games, and Arsenal need him to maintain this important lead at the summit.

Arsenal desperately need to go into the New Year atop the Premier League table, and keeping their immaculate defensive record will be key.

Chelsea showed that they are more than ready to challenge for the title, especially if they get Cole Palmer fit and firing.

Manchester City are always dangerous in the second half of the season.

Establishing a healthy lead will be key to staving them off when they potentially find another gear in 2026.

Arsenal and Hincapie cannot afford more poor performances like this if they truly want to end their long wait for the crown.