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Sun 18 December 2016 17:51, UK

By Amir Mir

Football Insider analyses the three talking points as Arsenal lose 2-1 to Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday afternoon.

Mesut Ozil is not world class

Once again the 28-year-old Arsenal ace failed to make an impact against a big side during a crucial period of the season. He provided little impact in the first-half, then went missing after the break. A player of his quality should be doing a lot more in these games. The German looked lacklustre, slow and languid. The north London club have a soft underbelly, their mentality is a big weakness and Ozil optimises that.

Alexis Sanchez will be the key to title win

The Chilean international has been in scintillating form this season and he will be the key for Arsenal lifting their first Premier League crown in 12 years. Sanchez produced a great assist to Theo Walcott in the first-half, but went missing thereafter. However, whatever good that comes out of the Gunners comes via Sanchez. The loss at the Etihad is a big dent in their confidence for the title, but if they have any chance of lifting silverware then Sanchez is the one who will provide the goods.

Alex Iwobi needs to improve in the final third

The 20-year-old is another product of Arsenal’s famous academy and the young lad posses a lot great attributes. However, he needs to improve his game in the final third to take his game to the next level as was proven against City. The Nigerian international looks very comfortable and strong on the ball, but sometimes his final pass or shot at goal lets him down. The winger has many years to improve and if he does then he will no doubt become a huge star. Iwobi is comfortable on both feet, but sometimes the weight of his pass or decision making lets him down. Nonetheless, he is working under a manager who will no doubt improve that side of his game.

In other Arsenal news, forget Alexis Sanchez and Mesut Ozil, this is the signature the Gunners need in January.