Gary Lineker Diagnoses Arsenal ‘Wobble’ as Premier League Leaders Face Defensive Crisis Following FA Cup Exit

Gary Lineker predicts Arsenal will win the Premier League but warns of a "wobble" and injury concerns after their shock FA Cup exit to Southampton.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 6, 2026, 4:43 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Football365

The End of the Quadruple Dream

Arsenal’s ambitions for an unprecedented quadruple have evaporated over a turbulent fortnight. After a dominant start to the 2026 campaign, Mikel Arteta’s side suffered a Carabao Cup final defeat to Manchester City followed by a quarter-final exit from the FA Cup at the hands of Southampton. According to Gary Lineker, speaking on The Rest is Football podcast, these consecutive setbacks represent a significant "wobble" for a team that appeared nearly invincible during the winter months.

A Defensive Concern for the Title Run-In

The primary tactical concern emerging from the Southampton defeat is the fitness of central defender Gabriel. The Brazilian was seen leaving the pitch with ice on his knee, a visual that Lineker described as a major worry for the North London side. With a nine-point lead at the top of the table, Gabriel’s presence is considered essential for stabilizing a backline that must soon face Manchester City at the Etihad. Lineker emphasized that the next two fixtures will be "hugely important" for steadying the ship.

Signs of Psychological Strain

Lineker suggested that the decision to withdraw multiple players from international duty prior to the cup exits may have been an early indicator of a "panic" mindset. He theorized that while such moves are intended to preserve fitness, they can inadvertently signal a lack of calm and confidence to the rest of the squad. According to the presenter, this departure from ordinary procedure suggests that Arteta may be feeling the pressure as the season enters "squeaky bum time."