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There’s minimal difference between Leno & Martinez but the latter’s skillset suits Arteta’s football more & he’s less error-prone.
Leno is a year older, an inch shorter & has a higher market value. If one should be sold, it’s him. He’s an elite shot stopper, rapid off his line & better with the ball at his feet. Other than that Martinez is just as good or better at every other aspect of keeping.
Emi is better 1v1, better distribution (lofted balls down the channels), better at claiming balls, more decisive/better judgement when coming for crosses = hardly makes errors, parries the ball into safe areas (Leno rarely did).
Even if Martinez goes, he’s done his job. Proved that Leno is not as crucial as people previously believed. He was fantastic under Emery, where his flaws were overshadowed by our defensive frailties. Every game we’d face 15-30 shots & Leno would constantly save us.
With Arteta, we have a manager that has implemented a compact, defensive shape, minimised individual errors, provided protection to the back-line. We rarely have to face 20-30 shots per game so the focus is no longer on shot stopping as much, & more on other aspects of keeping.
What’s more important now? Minimising errors, playing out from the back & limiting goals from dead ball situations. All areas in which EM is superior. That being said, either are dispensable (minimap quality diff. btw the two) for outfield reinforcements.
Just to clarify, I love Leno & I’ll always appreciate what that guy did for us under Emery. Saved us countless times. I’m just assessing both player’s skill sets + performances since Arteta came in & everything points to Martinez being the better option going forward.
Anyone that believes the contrary, that Leno is better for Arteta’s Arsenal. Please explain why, I’m genuinely curious.
Getting off for the night now, will respond to everything tomorrow.
Getting off for the night now, will respond to everything tomorrow.
