Arsenal and Mikel Arteta face a new challenge in the Premier League title race this season following Saturday's goalless draw against Everton at the Emirates Stadium.

The Gunners sit third in the standings after 16 game, six points off leaders Liverpool, who have a game in hand after the Merseyside derby was postponed due to adverse weather conditions last weekend. Manchester City, who are enduring their worst run of form under Pep Guardiola, can draw level on points with Arsenal with a win over bitter rivals Manchester United on Sunday.

All four clubs, as well as surprise inclusion Nottingham Forest, remain in contention for this season's title. As the schedule ramps up ahead of Christmas, a lot can change in just a matter of games.

READ MORE: Theo Walcott agrees with Mikel Arteta on Arsenal 'issue' as clear transfer message sent

READ MORE: The Mikel Arteta half-time plan that failed to breach Everton as Arsenal suffer latest title hit

While it already appears unlikely the huge points tally of previous years will be required to win this season's prize, Arsenal face a new dilemma that could hinder their chances of claiming the title in May. In the 2023/24 campaign, when Arteta's side finished second and two points behind Manchester City, Arsenal dropped points in just 10 of their 38 games.

Five of those games were draws and five of them were defeats, but it was enough to cost them up against the force that was Manchester City. The concern this season is that they have already dropped points in eight of the 16 games played so far.

The Gunners have played out six draws this term, two of which have come in their last two league matches against Fulham and Everton. It is worth noting that Liverpool, who currently lead the way at the top of the table, have also suffered back-to-back draws in recent weeks.

However, given Arne Slot 's side had already given themselves a nine-point advantage, Arsenal and City's inability to capitalise in their own games means the Merseyside club remain in top spot. If dropped points in 10 matches wasn't enough to win the title last season, it's fair to say Arsenal cannot afford to falter in many more games, which is a tall order given the season is yet to reach the halfway point.