Afternoon all.
Unless you were hoping for the absolute “perfect” squad, I think Arsenal fans might just be pretty chuffed with what Arsenal have done in the transfer window this summer.
Every squad needs a mix of players, a balance. Grafters, skill, strength, intelligence and desire. The ability to be smart and at times, crafty.
Our defence not only has the height but the strength and stamina too. Every one of Saliba, Calafiori, Gabriel, White, MLS, Timber, Kiwior, and from what I’ve seen so far, Mosquera, are strong, determined and passionate players who don’t like conceding goals. Ok, MLS has had a few struggles but I fully expect him to return to his old self very soon. (It does seem like Kiwior could be sold which is a shame).
Our midfield players, Rice, Zubimendi, Norgaard, Merino – all very good players. Rice with the power, pace, directness and a wicked set-piece. Zubimendi the intelligence to be in the right place at the right time and he’s not only a quick recycler of the ball, but possesses precision with his passing. Norgaard, well, he was always Brentford’s Mr Reliable and there’s no reason why he won’t be ours. Merino – our midfielder turned number 9.
Saka, Odegaard, Nwaneri and now Eze – the tricksters, the creative players, the skilful players who on their day can work magic.
Martinelli, Madueke Trossard, Saka and Nwaneri give us the width, Madueke and Martinelli the pace plus we still have Jesus and Zinchenko to come in.
Gyokeres and Havertz have the power, height and competitiveness where it matters, in the box. The Swede with strength in body, feet and head. Add in our two central defenders on set-pieces and we can be incredibly potent. Stoke City “they” might call us but who cares? Jealously isn’t a good trait to possess.
We have two very good goalkeepers.
We also have Dowman coming through as well as a few other younger players who enjoyed a good pre-season and might be involved in the domestic cups if the draw allows.
I think all in all, we have a very strong and balanced squad and one which affords Mikel Arteta far more flexibility than ever before. Don’t forget, we still have Vieira, Nelson, Lokonga and Hein on the books. I bet I’ve missed someone. lol
What do you think?
Catch up in the comments.
I’d go as far as to say this is the best squad we’ve ever had in terms of strength in depth!
It is since Arteta took over.
Morning rico, finally a squad where players/subs can seamlessly come into the team and not notice a particular if any drop in standard. Getting towards that two players in every position. I just hope, knowing our luck, Gyokeres will not get injured straight away after Havertz!
In fact it’s afternoon, but who’s counting 😀
That looks, on paper at least, a formidable squad and in a week or so we will have a much better idea of its strengths and weaknesses.
Now the onus is on Arteta to come up with the goods in the way of, at first points, and then silverware.
Afternoon Andrew, agree. We finally have quality throughout, I’m banking on Mikel using it too…
Agreed Cicero, it’s his time to prove his doubters wrong. Eg, me. 😝
Often what is on paper does not correspond to reality…
Ever the optimist Jm..