Arsenal players were happy at the end of the 1-1 match against West Brom. Two reasons: They had fought and fought hard for a draw and a well-deserved one too; the draw also meant the international break finds them at top of the table. The game exposed some of Arsenal’s weaknesses and strengths:
1. Wilshere is not a winger
Wenger has done well…and also been lucky when playing some players out of position. This has gone well with Ramsey, Cazorla among others. However, Wilshere lacks speed to not only attack but also defend. He constantly lost the ball on the wings which led to quick counter attacks by WBA. In the middle of the pack, however he shows his potential and exerts his influence well.
2. There is need for another striker
Giroud has started his season well and has definitely improved his finishing and also his hold up play and dribbling skills (albeit surprisingly). Giroud is the only finisher in the team currently in the as been absence of Walcott and Podolski. He holds the ball but has no one to help him attack. Most of the time he is isolated and this ends up in wasted possession. The team clearly needs a box striker to support the big French man.
3. The Arsenal is now a team
The team no longer relies on one player as has been for the last two seasons where we heavily relied on van Persie and Cazorla. This season all team players are playing like they are stars and by that they become stars. All players are equally important. Against WBA, Arsenal went a goal down for the first time this season and all the players showed the fight and spirit to win back a point for the team.
4. Gibbs is growing into the trademark Arsenal left back
The baby faced player started out in the first team as an injury-prone and error-prone player. He has now matured into a respectable left back, top 5 in the world even. He is a great tackler and is doing quite well as a game reader. His importance in attack has become so important for the team and his attacks from the left wing were a constant threat vs. WBA.
5. Flamini is the boss
I am tempted to say that he is worth every penny…but well we all know that would be a lie. However, they do say that the best things in life are free. Flamini proves them right. His man of the match performance vs. West Brom indicated the solidness he has brought into the team. The tough tackling DM is making no friends and is one card away from a suspension. He has protected his back 4 well, as well as his command at the centre has brought balance to the team.
6. Özil will not have an easy time
No one will argue about the importance of Wenger signing Özil. Regarded as the best signing of the summer, his impact can be felt already. The midfielder has brought into the team skills, flair and balance. However, he did join the most bullied team in the EPL and this was seen by the number of misplaced passes he had yesterday. He was often dispossessed and the tackles on him were hard. It will be a tough time for him before he can completely settle down.
7. Set pieces are still an issue
The team still seems lost when it comes to defending set pieces. The goal by West Brom and the fact that most of their crosses troubled the defence is still very worrying. The only plus side is that Szczesny’s judgment of crosses has improved and he is more solid. Jenkinson’s positioning during attacks that are channeled wide is also a cause for concern.
8. Ramsey is very influential
Last season most fans barely recognized the influence Ramsey had in the team. The top tackler stopped most of the opponent’s attack and started Arsenal’s attacks. This season he is still doing the same, just adding the goals and assists. His influence was seen after his withdrawal due to injury vs. WBA where the team seemed to lose some fluidity.
9. Arteta is still needed
Most people have been complaining that Arteta is not a natural DM and their complains were heard and solved by Flamini. Against Napoli, Arsenal played football that reminded people of the Vieira- Gilberto era with both Arteta and Flamini in the middle. Flamini’s presence means that Arteta can roam forward and also he can tackle safer. Arteta keeps the momentum of the game and is very efficient at switching the direction of play as well as the tempo.
10. In Rosicky we have a true game changer
Rosicky has seen injuries slow his progress but he is still so important. In him, Arsenal have a player who brings in urgency, experience, command and a daring style of play. He has a ‘Never Say Die’ attitude and that is exactly what Arsenal needs to win anything.
All in all, Arsenal is a much better team this season and will need consistency and a bit of luck to achieve success.