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Arsenal look like a very promising side and have come a long way since Mikel Arteta took over. They were just a few subtle but effective tweeks away from causing Liverpool some major issues at Anfield.
A Thread
A Thread
The transition between pressing and reverting to a deep block is something that's clearly been worked on to counter the top teams such as Liverpool and City, and is something that Arsenal do extremely effectively in most cases.
The front line puts pressure on the opposing defense and drops in to help out the midfield duo if they're being overwhelmed. Lacazette's presence in the team provides them with an out ball and a source to build their counter attacks. We saw again yesterday these can be crucial.
However, as was seen yesterday, Lacazette is inconsistent in front of goal and can cost Arsenal a few chances which, in games like this, are precious
He scored their opener (a scuffed volley), but also missed a couple of big chances which would've swayed the outcome at full time
He scored their opener (a scuffed volley), but also missed a couple of big chances which would've swayed the outcome at full time
Adding extra goal threat to that of Aubameyang isn't necessarily one of the most pressing needs for this side, but could be one they should be looking to make as it would elevate them from a good side to becoming world class.
In midfield, Arteta started Xhaka alongside Elneny. This is presumably due to the more solid defensive structure they provide in midfield, to help keep them stable in a deep block and overload in defense when called upon.
In my opinion, Ceballos should have started as it would have provided The Gunners with much needed energy in the middle, as well as the ability to beat the tight press without the need for an out ball - as is often where Xhaka and Elneny struggle (the need for an out ball)
On multiple occasions, one of the midfield duo would find themselves surrounded by the high press, with no clear out ball, and end up conceding possession either by being dispossessed or by forcing a pass that wasn't on. This led to inconsistencies in Arsenal's playing from deep.
The possible arrival of Houssem Aouar will be a big step to improving this, and allows Arsenal to play a stable 3 in midfield, rather than the 2 which seems to become a choice of defensive structure or expressive transition, rather than the ideal blend of the two styles.
A third issue in this Arsenal side, specifically in games like this, comes via Bernd Leno.
The German is an expert shot stopper - but that's about it. Poor distribution, a lack of command of his area, and the lack of ability to claim a high ball all make him highly volatile.
The German is an expert shot stopper - but that's about it. Poor distribution, a lack of command of his area, and the lack of ability to claim a high ball all make him highly volatile.
It was seen in game as David Luiz made his frustrations clear after having to clear a Van Dijk header, which should have been at least closed down by the keeper, behind for a corner.
Again, not the most pressing issue but a key one nonetheless.
Again, not the most pressing issue but a key one nonetheless.
Arsenal's lack of quality squad depth is also telling. Mohammad Elneny, although he is a useful squad option, was previously likely to be sold at Arsenal. Now, he's started 2 of Arsenal's 3 opening Premier League games.
Lots of the depth comes from youth, which isn't necessarily a bad option long term, but the immediate influence is minimal. Eddie Nketiah gets goals, but cannot be considered an instant replacement for Lacazette. Similarly, Reiss Nelson and Joe Willock are still raw and not ready
If Arsenal want to become a top team, it'll either be when these players develop further, or if they invest in quality depth players like those at Liverpool and Manchester City.
I also think, as much as I've thought quite a lot into this thread, it's important to remember it was against Liverpool.
The undisputed best side in the country, and they really showed why.
The undisputed best side in the country, and they really showed why.
Arteta has said previously that the tactics in a game can be perfect, but the difference in quality is hard to overcome.
Last night, he said "you can have a perfect high press but then Van Dijk plays an 80 yard pass on to Salah's chest"
Last night, he said "you can have a perfect high press but then Van Dijk plays an 80 yard pass on to Salah's chest"
If there's one key point to take from last night's game, its that Arsenal, while they are impressive in some aspects, have a fair way to go before they can really challenge at the top. Certain additions and adaptations need to be made to enable the step up.
