Arsenal saw their perfect start to the English Premier League season come to an end on Sunday when in-form Manchester United beat the side 3-1 at Old Trafford.
According to Telegraph journalist Luke Edwards, Arsenal lost the match due to the absence of Ghana international Thomas Partey.
In his view, the Gunners lacked a shield for its defense and that rendered the team vulnerable, leading to the defeat.
"Arsenal were sucker-punched twice. At times, they were the better team - so it is a bad result, but it is not a complete and utter disaster.
"Mikel Arteta was bold and attacked United. Unfortunately for him, it didn't work, but full marks for the bravery,” he told BBC Radio 5 Live.
Edward’s added, "They missed Thomas Partey. He mops up the danger and shields the back four. All elite teams have a player like that was breaks up play and picks up the scrap.
"All the United goals came from balls played through the middle and that will be a concern."
Thomas Partey is out injured with a thigh problem. He is not expected to return to full fitness until after the September international break.