The Arsenal set up 1) In possession Utilising the familiar 4-2-3-1, Arsenal were building through the thirds in a 2-3-5 shape. Cedric would initially remain deep, with Tierney deployed as an outlet through the left channel, allowing Willian to occupy the half-spaces. The 2-3-5 became a 3-2-5 occasionally with Elneny dropping in between the two […]
A line-breaking pass from deep, positional rotations and a smart finish; elements that were on display in Arsenal’s first goal against Leeds (described below). In this piece, I provide a review of the game. Formations in and out of possession Arsenal continued to persist with the 4-2-3-1 that has brought greater levels of consistency in […]
Background Graduating from Hale End, Emile Smith Rowe is yet another exciting prospect who has come through the ranks. Despite the 20-year-old statistically not excelling during his time for the U23’s, his qualities quickly became apparent. Technical prowess, ability to operate in tight spaces, intricate passes and very tidy in possession. It was always a […]
Formations/tactics (4-2-3-1/4-1-2-3) Mikel Arteta retained the 4-2-3-1 that has proved to be successful for the Gunners in their last three games, although an evident trend was Willock pushing forward regularly, with Elneny operating in a single pivot. Pressing & Defensive shape Arsenal utilised a 4-4-2 press when Newcastle were deep in their own half, with […]
Formations/tactics Mikel Arteta retained the 4-2-3-1 deployed in the last two Premier League encounters, with Martinelli given a much-needed rest following the number of minutes the Brazillian has played in the last three fixtures across all competitions. The Spaniard recognised that his side would come up against a stubborn deep block, and adjusted accordingly, bringing […]
The Seagulls have been a tough opponent for the Gunners since their promotion back in 2017. But yesterday, it was Arteta’s men who prevailed. In this article, I analyse the game in detail. Formations/tactics Mikel Arteta retained his tried and tested 4-2-3-1 system, but with Aubameyang coming in for Lacazette to lead the line. Elneny […]
It’s been a catastrophic season so far. But perhaps yesterdays performance may just be a catalyst for change. In this piece, I provide an in-depth match review, discussing the formations/tactics deployed by Mikel Arteta, a general review of the game followed by highlighting individual performances. Initially, it seemed that the hybrid 3-4-3 would be retained […]
Summer 2019, it was announced that the Gunners would acquire the services of the Brazilian wonder kid, Gabriel Martinelli, who impressed multiple scouts with his performances in South America. The assumption initially was that the talented teenager would be integrated into the U23’s and play his football predominantly there. But following a sequence of […]
With the Gunners managing only 9 goals in 9 Premier League games along with no open play goals in their last 5, it’s certainly not been the start Mikel Arteta would have envisaged. Arsenal went into the game against Leeds looking to take three points back to London and stay within close proximity to the […]
The engine room of the team. Regardless of whether Arteta decides to alter the system or not, it’s fundamental that the Spanish tactician finds the correct balance in midfield. With eight games completed in the Premier League, the Gunners have already tested five different midfield combinations, suggesting that no one has cemented their place in […]
