For many years, Arsenal and Arsene became virtually synonyms. Frenchman spent 21 years and 224 days at the club. The invincible run of 2003-04 EPL season and runners up position in UEFA Champions League were his high points.
At that moment, the ship began to rock. The club remained in the second half of the table. Barring a few occasions, they finished the matches as a hopeless force. At this time, Mikel Arteta was in charge of any sort of improvement.
Spanish coach joined Manchester City’s coaching staff in 2016. Those learning curves must have made him more intelligent. Interestingly, Arteta lived in the same neighborhood as Pep’s brother, Pere, when he was in London. Will Arsenal play like Man C? Comparisons can’t be made due to a combination of reasons. These reasons are the type of players, investment, abilities, bench strength, etc.
Arsenal could have taken the services of a veteran coach. Allegri or Pochettino or Ancelotti could have been approached. Instead, they put money on young, dynamic, and a new manager. It shows that they wanted a long term investment.
Arsenal has enjoyed their heydays in the reign of Geroge Graham and Arsene Wegner. Preference has been shifted to the longevity of the coach and his loyalty.
Arteta has to set the house in order. Ozil’s performance is a matter of worry. Clamour is growing that Arsenal has endured a ‘Luxury item’ far too long. The defense is an area of concern.
David Luiz was the purchase of the season in this department. The Brazilian was a different man in the company of Terry and Cahill. His chemistry with Mustafi and Socrates lacks understanding. Top class defenders will demand £ 60 million or more. The desire to join Arsenal is another factor. Torreira is an elegant player, but he needs company. Aubameyang has scored 15 times this season. He is carrying too much load. Goal scoring touches are eluding from Lacazette. Except for a few sparks, Pepe has offered very little of his potential. He has to translate his hard work into goals.
Wegner was inspired by the idea of ‘Total Football’ from his childhood days. Frenchman was in favor of a 4–4–2 system in the early years. In his words, “no other formation is as efficient in covering space.” Later on, he switched to 4-5-1, 4-3-3, or even 3-4-3 formation. Pep has always been an advocate of 4-3-3. Possession is the boss. Will Arteta take leaf out of his book? Judging the strength of players, Arteta should stick to a suitable formation.
To emulate the success of ‘Wenger Era’ is asking for too much and too early. Gunners fans want the return of that ferocious brand of football. Desperation for points is growing. They want to have a shot at the European spot. They beat arch-rivals Manchester United 2-0 at home recently. Arsenal displayed flamboyant soccer in that game. Hope, Arteta’s Arsenal will blaze again.
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