Arsenal needs a formation changeheres why
The Gunners! Arsenal has been struggling to find consistency and rhythm in their play, and a formation change might be just what they need to get back on track. Here are some reasons why:
- Lack of width: Arsenal's current 4-2-3-1 formation has been criticized for lacking width, with the full-backs often hugging the touchline and not providing enough support to the wingers. A change to a 4-3-3 or 4-2-2-2 formation could allow for more width and stretch the opposition's defense.
- Over-reliance on Aubameyang: Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is Arsenal's main goal-scoring threat, but relying too heavily on him can be a problem. A formation change could allow for more opportunities for other players to score, such as Nicolas Pépé, Alexandre Lacazette, or even a new signing.
- Midfield congestion: Arsenal's midfield has been congested, with too many players competing for space and possession. A change to a 4-3-3 or 4-2-2-2 formation could allow for more freedom and creativity in midfield, with players like Granit Xhaka, Lucas Torreira, and Matteo Guendouzi able to play to their strengths.
- Defensive issues: Arsenal's defense has been shaky at times, and a formation change could help to address this. For example, a 3-4-3 or 3-5-2 formation could provide more defensive solidity, with an extra defender or two to help protect the goal.
- Lack of creativity: Arsenal's attacking play has been predictable and lacking in creativity, with too much reliance on long balls and crosses. A formation change could allow for more possession-based football, with players like Mesut Özil, Dani Ceballos, and Bukayo Saka able to play to their strengths.
- Injury concerns: Arsenal has been plagued by injuries to key players, and a formation change could help to mitigate this. For example, a 4-2-2-2 formation could allow for more flexibility and adaptability, with players able to fill in for each other if needed.
- Opposition analysis: Arsenal's opponents have been able to exploit their weaknesses and set up to nullify their attacking threats. A formation change could help to catch opponents off guard and create new problems for them to deal with.
Some potential formations that Arsenal could consider:
- 4-3-3: This formation would allow for more width and creativity in midfield, with players like Xhaka, Torreira, and Guendouzi able to play to their strengths.
- 4-2-2-2: This formation would provide more defensive solidity and allow for more flexibility in midfield, with players like Özil and Ceballos able to play in a more advanced role.
- 3-4-3: This formation would provide more defensive solidity and allow for more width and creativity in midfield, with players like Pépé and Saka able to play to their strengths.
- 3-5-2: This formation would provide more defensive solidity and allow for more flexibility in midfield, with players like Xhaka and Torreira able to play in a more defensive role.
Ultimately, the key to Arsenal's success will depend on the players they have available and the system that best suits their strengths and weaknesses.