The aura/era of being “the Untouchables” is, without a doubt, over. Finito. Gone. Au revoir. Arsenal's record tells that story and, perhaps most importantly, the other clubs believe and know it to be true.

It was a terrific run, but couldn't last forever. The Gunners are, after all, a mortal bunch. Team chemistry has been irrevocably altered with so many ageing leaders and young bucks of different generations in the fold now, technical flaws have been exposed in game plans, critical injuries or absences have struck at inopportune times, financial constraints can be linked to a new stadium and, rest assured, internal strife has occurred in the locker room and boardroom as a result of all that stuff. And that's just the short list of reasons.

So, what is the most positive sign in the middle of such chaotic times? Arsenal is not losing, but only losing ground to its top competitors. That's a typical cycle for most any successful business operation. And the typical answer is to re-invent and re-energize, before the decline becomes too rapid.

The pain/gain of being "in transition" is, also without a doubt, underway. The increasing chatter in the media, on websites, in pubs, etc. presents sufficient evidence in support. Well done, Arsene and the folks upstairs, for making the moves and taking the heat. In the meantime, we are vulnerable. The last fumes of an enviable reputation are swirling around, but that will not help us. I am referring to both the team and its fans. Others are sensing this vulnerability and, no sh*t, we are getting bullied.

Put simply, we are experiencing a crisis of confidence of Austin Powerish proportions. Time moves on and change happens, but we are still The Arsenal at or near the top of the table, able to put together fine performances on occasion (even devastating ones, as Boro will attest) with a certain panache and class (as Cesc and other maturing newcomers will learn). However, those chest-thumping outings are fewer and farther between, chances for failure are higher and a quick or easy fix isn't going to happen.

Oh yeah, baby, the Gunners will find their mojo again, soon enough --- all bets are off, though, if the other clubs start to put frickin' laser beams on their players' heads.