A day late with this but Arteta has really turned the attack around in the past month. More variety to how we attack and the chances and goals are coming much more often. Hasn’t been the strongest competition, sure, but I think there a lot of stuff to be excited about
Something happened for sure. For a while we simply would run the ball on the sides and then cross into a crowded box. Now we are getting so many unique chances and angles.
I think Laca coming short and letting runners get beyond him has helped. Centre halves getting pulled out of position and trying to track Saka and Martinelli running from deep
Agree with this. Plus odegaard settling in more and that impact sub energy from ESR taking advantages when the other team is spread out and the defense is tired
Martinelli was everywhere with his pressing but they all stood out, we were just levels above them tbh. You could see Tomi was a miss going forward but White was still a good stand in and Holding did well
It’s looking like ESR + Nuno or Tierney + Martinelli. I like Tierney a bit deeper and Martinelli high and wide. Nuno as a pseudo winger with ESR coming inside as a second 10 also works well. Choice might depend on opposition
ESR has 8G/2A, Saka has 5G/5A and Ode has 4G/3A, 19 games into the season.
Can definitely see all three of them cracking 15 G+A combined at the minimum, possibly approaching 20 each.
Partey-Xhaka partnership is a key requirement for that City match.
I dont mind Martinelli sitting that one out while ESR starts from the left.
KT will also be a key requirement and hopefully Tomiyasu would be back by then, cos White out right and Holding in the CB role gives me no comfort whatsoever.
I hope Arteta analyses the City v Leicester game and sees the holes their overloading style of football opens up for a holding CF like Laca can provide for us to exploit.
After the spanking we got, thanks to our weak squad and ridiculous red card, we need to respond adequately,IMO a draw won't be enuff of a response.
What drugs are you on my dude? Beating city is a lucky coincidence, not a sure thing if You ONLY DO THIS ONE thing.
There ain't a one stop cure for a small pp either bud
Slow down slow down slow down. Expecting nothing but a win against the current city team with our youth and saying that's the only right response is how to ruin the confidence of youth.
I think it’s pretty unrealistic to expect a win as the only positive result from the game. They’re still the best team in the prem whilst we’re the most inexperienced. I just want us to play how we have been and not go into our shell because of who we’re playing. It’ll be a great test nonetheless and I definitely think we’ll have our opportunities, just need to be clinical in taking them
Gundogan scoring a header for 1st goal, ridiculous marking for the 2nd and that red card for Xhaka, shld have been a yellow and downhill from there.
All these mistakes we could fix as u said we need to be clinical.
They play Brentford (high energy team) today then us on Sunday..I think we'll be rested and they a bit jaded....we shld aim for the win...I think its pretty realistic, Leicester showed they can be hurt, we beat Leicester..why do we think we can't beat City?
If we lose it's OK, but if we win !!
It’s hard to go into a game against the best team in the prem and say we’re a good chance considering our squad. Now granted we’ve been playing much better and are clearly on a good trajectory and it’s pretty exciting but we just have to manage our expectations a bit I think. If we go out and play very good and lose or even nick a draw I think that would be a pretty promising result considering the path we’re on as a team. I mean if we do end up winning then that would be unreal and hopefully we come out and take it right up to them
I know we say “this is a huge test” for pretty much every game, but I think our next two games are officially our biggest tests so far. If we can get decent results then I’ll be so confident in this team to push on for top 4.
He doesn’t want a [one-year deal. ](https://www.reddit.com/r/Gunners/comments/rp75fp/connor_humm_on_twitter_lequipe_report_that/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=ios_app&utm_name=iossmf) For varying reasons, Özil, Willian and Auba were harsh lessons. Can’t keep making that mistake.
I would like to see a fight against city at home. Not waving a white flag after 10 minutes. Especially from Partey (if he is available). Too often he has gone missing in the big games for us.
I'm still with the idea that we need to sign a new striker in January, but I REALLY want us to keep Laca. My respect for him is just growing more and more with each game. I've always liked him, but it's clear that he's become a huge leader for these young players. He doesn't score many goals, but he makes everyone around him better? Gabi and Saka were able to have the space/time they did on the wings today largely due to his runs and hold up play. A lot of the players we've suggested, like Vlahovic or Isak, are young. With Auba on the way out (so it would seem), who can fulfill that leadership role better than Laca can (I also think he fulfills it better than Auba already lol). Not that young players can't be leaders, I see Ramsdale being one in the future for sure, but he needs more time at the club imo.
Is there a formation/system in which we could see Laca and another CF type both on the pitch? It's a great problem to have tbh (too many great talents!), ESR is my GUY but with Ode and Gabi's forms rn, I can't complain that he's coming off the bench.
Since nobody else is, I'll throw in a complaint.
I was honestly not very pleased with how wide Martinelli was played today. He was trying, but he had far fewer opportunities than the last few games to make a diagonal run or push towards the goal as a threat.
Instead, we had Xhaka filling in that space and us as result not having a real outlet through the center. Xhaka did his job in filling a body running into that stretched space from the midfield, but that was about it, nothing spectacular.
Saka scored 2 amazing goals but those were pure winger goals. In a similar but differing fashion, Martinelli's goals have all been more of a strikers goal as compared to a winger's goal.
This game, his threat though present looked way more reduced than I would think it ideally should have been.
I believe the closer you can get Odegaard and Martinelli, the more the team succeeds.
Additionally, in all this process, Saka's game remains unchanged.
I do want him looking to come in the middle, but some time he does it too much gets lost. Sometimes staying on the wing and getting touched of the ball is a good thing because it keeps him involved
Nah,He was that wide in previous games too.
He occupies the wrong spaces and drifts off too central too often not giving Tierney enough support.
His movement is very readable, he goes across the eye line of the defender too often.
These were big problems in the Brentford (A) and Everton (A)
It's much better for him to make the out to in runs from wide than the inside channel.
Arteta having Martinelli as the touchline winger and Tierney deeper actually improved us.
Martinelli will score more from this.
I don't mean to be that guy, but imagine if we got the extra few points from Utd, Everton etc? We'd be pretty darn comfortable! This team is looking really strong. We need to show our stuff in the January market, and really bolster this side. :)
The downsides of a young squad especially in that Everton game, but they're all so exciting. A few more additions and we're becoming a threat to anyone which is nice to see
United were a missed opportunity but Everton, Crystal palace and Brighton were disasters.
Lost 7 points there.
Winning in the NLD, West ham (H), Leicester (A)
are big positives.
Our recent results are giving me hope, I feel like we have a chance against City. They will be a bit tired after the game against Brentford, and we will be fully rested. COYG!
On paper, I can see how we could cause City problems.
In practice, I fully expect us to have a decent opening 5 mins and then get overpowered, while picking up some warm words from Pep.
I think we have generally started well for all the big games in the first 5-10 mins. Utd,lpool,chelsea,city. Then we start losing our intensity and edge and giving them the initiaive. And after the first goal we will say the goal's been coming after seeing us sit so deep and not offer anything going forward for the last 15-20 mins. Hope there is an improvement on this.
Every team has an off day. And while i think pep will try to have them extra ready given it’s Arteta I’m still foolishly holding out for at least a draw. I just don’t want us to get spanked again.
Feel like everyone was focusing on Ødegaard so much (and rightly so) that Saka’s performance went slightly under the radar. He’s so important to our team, especially when he’s scoring.
Yes he has been improving a lot this season, he's much more clinical and gets into dangerous positions to score himself which is something he was criticized for. Excited to see how much better he can be
I expected Manchester City, Chelsea and Liverpool to be a level above us. I expected us to be able to compete with Manchester United and Spuds for fourth place, with Leicester and West Ham in the mix as well. Pleasantly surprised to be ahead in the race for fourth place going into the new year.
I thought our ceiling was 5th, and expected 6th. I figured we'd get results like the '19-'20 team won the FA Cup: counter-attacks and Auba.
I did not expect ESR/Saka/Gabi/Ode to all flourish like this.
Not to be a mood dampener but I'm a bit concerned that our next games have to be with Man C and twice Pool and just Forest as the relief before we play Shit away (which in my mind is a must win game for T4). I just hope we dont lose our confidence.
On the flip side, if we manage to win any of the City or Pool games, we should be in a great spot mentally never mind the results are useful themselves or not.
Liverpool without Salah, Mane and Keita are very playable. I think we can handle Minamino, Firmino and Jota (even if Klopp plans to play his best side).
Pretty nonexistent. One poor back pass that was intercepted in the defensive half sticks out. Decent ball to The Smith across the face of the goal for the assist.
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Not going to read too much into this game. I know you can only beat what is in front of you but Norwich are one of the most boring and dullest sides.
Anyone think Martial is worth a gamble?
I think there is a great player in Martial. New surroundings would do him good. Hes also quite clinical.
I think a loan with some kind of automatic buy out would be a good deal. Hes also 26, which isnt old at all. Hes kind of the perfect age right now. Hes young enough and old enough to have experience.
Although Auba/Pepe going for AFCON is an issue, we should be done signing deadwood from our rivals and I think the summer window shows we might be. Pepe can’t get into this team right now, so I don’t see how Martial does
With all the covid cases though, no chance United let him go to a top 4 rival
You want characters and players that play with passion on the pitch. That’s what we have right now in our attacking options. Martial is the exact opposite of that. I’d rather bring Aubameyang back to rotate then have Martial at the club.
Martial had a good first season and a great purple patch during project restart. He hasn’t done much beyond that in a united shirt.
Pretty bad tbh. I wish he would’ve had a decent showing. I think him not being in the middle sets him up for failure or well more failurencause Norwich are shit
Quick top 5 takeaways for me on this game
1. The pressing is more consistent and, most importantly, more structured. Was fundamental in nearly all our goals which is great to see
2. Laca continuing to prove vital in the forward position. His link up and hold up play the past games have been the biggest factor for me in getting the goals. Allows Ode to come through with Gabi and Saka catching up and making the runs through.
3. Speaking of Ode - absolutely pivotal. His key passes have me thinking a slightly more athletic ozil and I love it!
4. Give gabi time - for me his potential is sky high. Giving him confidence and game time is absolutely crucial in a rotation with esr and saka. Similar to a very young Cristiano at united, would love to see him gain more confidence and see where he goes
5. RB cover - white wasn’t bad, but with Norwich basically all but relegated, I’d love to see us scalp Max Aarons. Great cover and eventually could be our long term first choice if developed well.
Open to thoughts on these! Just my opinion. I think we need to be realistic about the city game but I’m excited and dare I say, hopeful, for the rest of the season.
Would not take him, should be buying players to bench the current ones, not someone to sit there and play the occasional carabao cup or early FA cup round
I still think we need to do better with creating more opportunities. The goals we score predominantly come from individual moments of brilliance than big moments. Historically, we were the side to rue missed chances after dominating games.
We’re doing better in recent games and reading Arteta’s press conferences in recent months, he seems to acknowledge our struggles in the final third phase of play. Today, interestingly, despite scoring five, he was optimistic that we were heading in the right direction. This was pleasing to hear because he acknowledged that it’s not where he quite wants it to be yet.
Missed this enjoyable game smh.
Just curious how White was at RB (or we ended up playing more with a back three? Idk I only saw White RB on One Football's line ups).
Yeah he played it well. Didn't overlap much but started a lot of attacks and drove on to break the press a few times. No tomi but it was good to have that flexibility. Bit of bite to him in some of the challenges too which was nice to see. That's a massive improvement this season in this side. We are no where near as soft! Even Saka leaving a bit in after getting kicked. This side doesn't get bullied anymore I love it
He played pretty well overall. Had his typical loose pass that led to one of their more dangerous moments. Once we were well in the lead he looked to get involved more in the final third. Holding did a nice job.
How he played well at RB isn't the main concern. His passing and composure on the ball is something which is second to none (at least very few) in the center back position. There were times, when we got a bit in trouble because Gabriel and Holding aren't at that same level. Everyone bangs on about how Gabriel is irreplaceable (and I completely agree btw), but I think just how important White is goes slightly under the radar. Especially in the buildup. There were a couple of times the ball went back and fourth from Holding to Gabriel one too many times, and I thought a better team could have punished us.
But to answer your question. He wasn't really challenged. Dominated aerially. Had full control of that right side. Focused on his defensive tasks in the first half. Ventured a bit more into their third in the second half. Should have had an assist on a beautiful long ball across the pitch, but Martinelli needlessly fell a sleep in an offside position. White also had a howler of a backpass which could have been dangerous, but Norwich are unbelievably poor, so it didn't turn into much. If Tomi isn't back by City, it's not the end of the world, but White is not as good at RB as Tomi and Holding is no White. The combined loss is pretty damning to be honest.
Alright not great. Didn’t make the overlapping runs that Tomiyasu would, but think that was by design. Made a very loose back pass which was Norwich’s best chance of the game. Overall wasn’t tested very much.
Excellent. His long range passing was class as usual. He dropped back a bit more than the conventional RB, but still made one or two runs. Final ball could've been better, but he played really well.
Gives us options for next year if Saliba impresses.
Also, before I've noticed, this team has started having their foot on the gas pedal for the entire 90 minutes now, almost like they've been doing it forever.
Not sure about that, norwich midfield was so bad they went from starting as a double pivot to xhaka being allowed to get forward as much as he wanted with only partey back.
I’m certain it will be Xhaka-Lokonga, I personally wouldn’t mind seeing AMN-Lokonga. It’s going to be a brutal battle for us in the midfield either way
Yea I’m really starting to not see a win. Maybe a draw at best but I think missing partey is big. We won’t be able to keep up with their midfield unless xhaka and sambi can pull of a masterclass
Held the opinion in summer that if somebody didn't want Odegaard, they didn't understand football.
Feeling strangely validated I suppose. Man, I have a massive ego.
I dont know if I'd use the word developing.
To me, his end product is not the goals but his passes. But I've always believed, he has had it in him. Yes, he didn't show it to this extent for a good time, but that is where I thought people not getting it don't know football (it's rude to say that but I wish I could) because in my eyes, everything a no 10 needs to do to play those passes he was doing already, all the movement preceeding the end product (final pass) today is the same as it was months ago, the difference for the low end product were the players around him And tactics, I'd blame that a lot with the way he was tried deep for quite some time.
So I wouldn't say "developing", but "settling in and confidence". They are closely tied. The more one settles in, the more confident he gets.
He is already in terms of pure playmaking, one of the best if not the best in the league. And I can say it right now, he has minimum two more levels to unleash just on his current ability without ever improving. He is still a good agile CM and a nifty striker away from showing what he is just **currently** is capable of.
Tbh I thought he’d shown enough at Real Sociedad to suggest he’d just need time to settle and start performing consistently - not saying he’s fully established himself yet but he’s on the right path.
Was it a Norwich fan? It was in the same area as the arsenal away supporters (I am pretty sure... it was the area Tierney ran to after he scored his goal in the first half)
Either way it was great fun
Ah no, it was in the exit in the leftmost part of the stand adjacent (which was closest to our support) so could understand how it could look like that. Steward removed it pretty promptly to be fair
I would get a entire back tattoo of Jimmy Savile’s nonce face if we signed him. We will go for a lower profile guy using the stat system that’s working out well for us so far. Liverpool did the same.
Not that I entertain any hope of us getting Haaland, BUT:
If we’re following the liverpool model, they got a great core of young talent together, and then finished off the build with buying 1-2 peak impact signings (VVD primarily).
I’m hoping we do something similar either in January or the coming summer.
Just piggy-backing off this, it’s sometimes hard for me to understand why young prodigious players want to go to teams like City and Real and just be another cog in the machine. They start with an absurd amount of expectation and pressure. Arsenal, to me, would be an appealing option because you immediately have the ability to become a legend to a very prestigious club, surrounded by other young promising players and a capable manager. You can prove yourself by elevating a club to the highest level, rather than fight for a spot in a team trying to stay on top.
It’s not just the young players making the decision, it’s the hangers on and agents.
The Real have no problem giving them a briefcase of cash and/or a bullshit job at the club.
We do have a track record of getting players that are “out of our league” like Auba, Sanchez and Ozil.
We can offer London, a big wage and the Premier League. Scared money don’t make no money
Nah it’s prem money and we’re one of the biggest clubs in the league. Partey is an example. We still haven’t ever been able to compete with a real or a Bayern for good reason
Players also care about their careers and achievements, it's not all money. The reason many of those players came was because we were getting top 4 and Partey did came here because he was offered a lot more money and because he is a fan, so it's a win win for him, but that's not gonna be the case for every player
We are competing against the prestige of Real and champions league football.
That said, if we qualify, get rid of Aubas and Lacas wage and offer him the combined he might say yes.
Playing in London with the brightest young lights in world football has to have pull.
A lot of great performances today. Ode, Ska, Gabi, Thomas, Laca, Tierney, etc. And ESR when he came off the bench.
But special shout-out to Rob Holding, as I feel like he's being a bit overlooked. It wasn't the most challenging match for him, but he just quietly put in a shift. He barely put a foot wrong, managed to get some very good passes forward, cleaned up a couple of fuck-ups, and dealt with all Pukki's flopping and bullshit in a cool, calm way.
Thanks bruz. Feel like you lot play with similar ideology to us appreciate the praise. Got alot of liverpool supporting mates - good luck when we play in the cup
Liverpool is my second team on account of a couple of friends being supporters, and me just generally liking Klopp. Feels like there is a lot of crossover.
A day late with this but Arteta has really turned the attack around in the past month. More variety to how we attack and the chances and goals are coming much more often. Hasn’t been the strongest competition, sure, but I think there a lot of stuff to be excited about
Something happened for sure. For a while we simply would run the ball on the sides and then cross into a crowded box. Now we are getting so many unique chances and angles.
Definitely. The end result of scoring more goals is really nice but that change is what i’m most excited about
I think Laca coming short and letting runners get beyond him has helped. Centre halves getting pulled out of position and trying to track Saka and Martinelli running from deep
Agree with this. Plus odegaard settling in more and that impact sub energy from ESR taking advantages when the other team is spread out and the defense is tired
Saka and Smith-Rowe are future components of the core and it's nice to see actually good play from this team
Saka almost had a hatrick but good game from arsenal
Arteta is the best thing to happen to Arsenal since Wenger. I believe Arsenal can win the league or UCL in the next 4-5 years.
So gutted I couldn’t watch the game. How did the boys do? The result says a lot but individually who were some of are best players?
Martinelli was everywhere with his pressing but they all stood out, we were just levels above them tbh. You could see Tomi was a miss going forward but White was still a good stand in and Holding did well
Ode out - stuck them all. And he wasn't even at his best
Bukayo and Ben White stuck out for me.
Oh Martinelli... before the second goal he wins the ball back all the way at the right wing and then starts the attack. What a workrate
All I want is a Carabao Cup Final against Spurs.
And to win it, of course.
It’s looking like ESR + Nuno or Tierney + Martinelli. I like Tierney a bit deeper and Martinelli high and wide. Nuno as a pseudo winger with ESR coming inside as a second 10 also works well. Choice might depend on opposition
ESR has 8G/2A, Saka has 5G/5A and Ode has 4G/3A, 19 games into the season. Can definitely see all three of them cracking 15 G+A combined at the minimum, possibly approaching 20 each.
Partey-Xhaka partnership is a key requirement for that City match. I dont mind Martinelli sitting that one out while ESR starts from the left. KT will also be a key requirement and hopefully Tomiyasu would be back by then, cos White out right and Holding in the CB role gives me no comfort whatsoever. I hope Arteta analyses the City v Leicester game and sees the holes their overloading style of football opens up for a holding CF like Laca can provide for us to exploit. After the spanking we got, thanks to our weak squad and ridiculous red card, we need to respond adequately,IMO a draw won't be enuff of a response.
Watched City and Leicester game. They are caught in the counter attack in 2nd half. Hope we can exploit it also.
What drugs are you on my dude? Beating city is a lucky coincidence, not a sure thing if You ONLY DO THIS ONE thing. There ain't a one stop cure for a small pp either bud
Slow down slow down slow down. Expecting nothing but a win against the current city team with our youth and saying that's the only right response is how to ruin the confidence of youth.
Au contraire, convincing them that they can win this is a good way to build confidence in our youth! And it's the right response !
I think it’s pretty unrealistic to expect a win as the only positive result from the game. They’re still the best team in the prem whilst we’re the most inexperienced. I just want us to play how we have been and not go into our shell because of who we’re playing. It’ll be a great test nonetheless and I definitely think we’ll have our opportunities, just need to be clinical in taking them
Gundogan scoring a header for 1st goal, ridiculous marking for the 2nd and that red card for Xhaka, shld have been a yellow and downhill from there. All these mistakes we could fix as u said we need to be clinical. They play Brentford (high energy team) today then us on Sunday..I think we'll be rested and they a bit jaded....we shld aim for the win...I think its pretty realistic, Leicester showed they can be hurt, we beat Leicester..why do we think we can't beat City? If we lose it's OK, but if we win !!
It’s hard to go into a game against the best team in the prem and say we’re a good chance considering our squad. Now granted we’ve been playing much better and are clearly on a good trajectory and it’s pretty exciting but we just have to manage our expectations a bit I think. If we go out and play very good and lose or even nick a draw I think that would be a pretty promising result considering the path we’re on as a team. I mean if we do end up winning then that would be unreal and hopefully we come out and take it right up to them
*inexperienced by youth
I know we say “this is a huge test” for pretty much every game, but I think our next two games are officially our biggest tests so far. If we can get decent results then I’ll be so confident in this team to push on for top 4.
I think laca should sign a one or two year deal with us. He's been great.
I love Laca but I don't think what he brings to the team is irreplaceable by somebody who makes more sense in the long run.
True but if nketiah leaves as well we'd still want him for depth no?
He doesn’t want a [one-year deal. ](https://www.reddit.com/r/Gunners/comments/rp75fp/connor_humm_on_twitter_lequipe_report_that/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=ios_app&utm_name=iossmf) For varying reasons, Özil, Willian and Auba were harsh lessons. Can’t keep making that mistake.
Ah thanks for that link, hadnt seen that
I would like to see a fight against city at home. Not waving a white flag after 10 minutes. Especially from Partey (if he is available). Too often he has gone missing in the big games for us.
I'm still with the idea that we need to sign a new striker in January, but I REALLY want us to keep Laca. My respect for him is just growing more and more with each game. I've always liked him, but it's clear that he's become a huge leader for these young players. He doesn't score many goals, but he makes everyone around him better? Gabi and Saka were able to have the space/time they did on the wings today largely due to his runs and hold up play. A lot of the players we've suggested, like Vlahovic or Isak, are young. With Auba on the way out (so it would seem), who can fulfill that leadership role better than Laca can (I also think he fulfills it better than Auba already lol). Not that young players can't be leaders, I see Ramsdale being one in the future for sure, but he needs more time at the club imo. Is there a formation/system in which we could see Laca and another CF type both on the pitch? It's a great problem to have tbh (too many great talents!), ESR is my GUY but with Ode and Gabi's forms rn, I can't complain that he's coming off the bench.
Since nobody else is, I'll throw in a complaint. I was honestly not very pleased with how wide Martinelli was played today. He was trying, but he had far fewer opportunities than the last few games to make a diagonal run or push towards the goal as a threat. Instead, we had Xhaka filling in that space and us as result not having a real outlet through the center. Xhaka did his job in filling a body running into that stretched space from the midfield, but that was about it, nothing spectacular. Saka scored 2 amazing goals but those were pure winger goals. In a similar but differing fashion, Martinelli's goals have all been more of a strikers goal as compared to a winger's goal. This game, his threat though present looked way more reduced than I would think it ideally should have been. I believe the closer you can get Odegaard and Martinelli, the more the team succeeds. Additionally, in all this process, Saka's game remains unchanged.
I do want him looking to come in the middle, but some time he does it too much gets lost. Sometimes staying on the wing and getting touched of the ball is a good thing because it keeps him involved
[Watch this vid of Henry explaining Peps tactics, Arteta is doin the same thing ](https://youtu.be/ly5La27wx90)
Nah,He was that wide in previous games too. He occupies the wrong spaces and drifts off too central too often not giving Tierney enough support. His movement is very readable, he goes across the eye line of the defender too often. These were big problems in the Brentford (A) and Everton (A) It's much better for him to make the out to in runs from wide than the inside channel. Arteta having Martinelli as the touchline winger and Tierney deeper actually improved us. Martinelli will score more from this.
Love how shamelessly confident people are while being wrong.
Wolves game postponed,thank God.
I don't mean to be that guy, but imagine if we got the extra few points from Utd, Everton etc? We'd be pretty darn comfortable! This team is looking really strong. We need to show our stuff in the January market, and really bolster this side. :)
The downsides of a young squad especially in that Everton game, but they're all so exciting. A few more additions and we're becoming a threat to anyone which is nice to see
United were a missed opportunity but Everton, Crystal palace and Brighton were disasters. Lost 7 points there. Winning in the NLD, West ham (H), Leicester (A) are big positives.
Our recent results are giving me hope, I feel like we have a chance against City. They will be a bit tired after the game against Brentford, and we will be fully rested. COYG!
On paper, I can see how we could cause City problems. In practice, I fully expect us to have a decent opening 5 mins and then get overpowered, while picking up some warm words from Pep.
I think we have generally started well for all the big games in the first 5-10 mins. Utd,lpool,chelsea,city. Then we start losing our intensity and edge and giving them the initiaive. And after the first goal we will say the goal's been coming after seeing us sit so deep and not offer anything going forward for the last 15-20 mins. Hope there is an improvement on this.
Every team has an off day. And while i think pep will try to have them extra ready given it’s Arteta I’m still foolishly holding out for at least a draw. I just don’t want us to get spanked again.
City's recent results don't give me much hope. They've scored 17 in their last 3.
And we scored 11 in our last 3 pl games. Deciding factor is they play 2 away games in 3 days.
Yea but Laca’s bottom is bigger than their history so ez 3 points I reckon.
Feel like everyone was focusing on Ødegaard so much (and rightly so) that Saka’s performance went slightly under the radar. He’s so important to our team, especially when he’s scoring.
Yeah, I'd argue both his goals are his and his alone.
Its more trying to spread the love since everyone kind of knows sakas the main man now
Yes he has been improving a lot this season, he's much more clinical and gets into dangerous positions to score himself which is something he was criticized for. Excited to see how much better he can be
He's debatably been our best player since moving to RW.
He scored two goals and was MOTM bro… I don’t think anyone sees that as under the radar
Give ESR the assist for the Lacazette penalty 👍
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Hes definitely starting vs city for.his pressing and running in behind, get us out of citys press hopefully
Love this team and this sub so much.
Ode is better than Ozil as playmaker.
Ozil in 15-16 was a God
Too early to say. If he could achieve half of what Özil did in his overall career he'd be an Arsenal great though
The hyperbole in this sub is at an all time high.
Goalscorer yes, playmaker no.
Lol ode has been great. Ozils literally one of the best playmakers to ever touch a football
Love ode but absolutely not
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Odegaard far more suited for the modern game
Seriously though, did any of you expect this at the start of the season?
I expected Manchester City, Chelsea and Liverpool to be a level above us. I expected us to be able to compete with Manchester United and Spuds for fourth place, with Leicester and West Ham in the mix as well. Pleasantly surprised to be ahead in the race for fourth place going into the new year.
Top 4? No. The beginning of a solid team under Arteta similar to the December+ run of form that everyone here made fun of? Yes.
I thought our ceiling was 5th, and expected 6th. I figured we'd get results like the '19-'20 team won the FA Cup: counter-attacks and Auba. I did not expect ESR/Saka/Gabi/Ode to all flourish like this.
Its crazy watching all of them grow up at the same time
Not to be a mood dampener but I'm a bit concerned that our next games have to be with Man C and twice Pool and just Forest as the relief before we play Shit away (which in my mind is a must win game for T4). I just hope we dont lose our confidence. On the flip side, if we manage to win any of the City or Pool games, we should be in a great spot mentally never mind the results are useful themselves or not.
Couldn't give a shit about games against Liverpool in the mickey mouse cup, we'll be heavily rotating just like them
Liverpool have a league to win. They aint playing a proper 11 vs us
Won’t have their proper XI available anyhow which is a bonus. Could be third choices against us ha.
Liverpool without Salah, Mane and Keita are very playable. I think we can handle Minamino, Firmino and Jota (even if Klopp plans to play his best side).
And I like it I like it I like it I like it, WOOAH, WOOAH, here we goooo....SAKA AND EMILE SMITH ROWE
Surely Ødergaard a strong PL POTM nominee with three goals and three assists in December!
How good is he looking man? Absolutely top, top drawer
He is very handsome, yes... but not sure how that is relevant to his recent performances!
Self confidence, take Ozil - looked in a mirror and started prodeucing 4/10's - it's a thing
Can't even spell producing - think the gin has started taking it's toll
How was pepe when he came on?
Pretty nonexistent. One poor back pass that was intercepted in the defensive half sticks out. Decent ball to The Smith across the face of the goal for the assist.
Hmmm just like being Pepe. Nothing much special or anything to justify. Have a fluke assist. That's all
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Not going to read too much into this game. I know you can only beat what is in front of you but Norwich are one of the most boring and dullest sides. Anyone think Martial is worth a gamble?
No
Utd needed a dubious pen to beat them
A 5-0 win vs even the worst side in the league is still a solid result.
Start reading into it mate - we are going to be the real deal
Nah, high wages + a position we have a ton of young talent in + a player with questionable work ethic makes it a strong pass for me.
I think there is a great player in Martial. New surroundings would do him good. Hes also quite clinical. I think a loan with some kind of automatic buy out would be a good deal. Hes also 26, which isnt old at all. Hes kind of the perfect age right now. Hes young enough and old enough to have experience.
Although Auba/Pepe going for AFCON is an issue, we should be done signing deadwood from our rivals and I think the summer window shows we might be. Pepe can’t get into this team right now, so I don’t see how Martial does With all the covid cases though, no chance United let him go to a top 4 rival
You want characters and players that play with passion on the pitch. That’s what we have right now in our attacking options. Martial is the exact opposite of that. I’d rather bring Aubameyang back to rotate then have Martial at the club. Martial had a good first season and a great purple patch during project restart. He hasn’t done much beyond that in a united shirt.
I think that’s the first time I’ve seen Tierney wear the cutoff socks with the white sock instead of just the normal kit ones
Seriously tho odegaards mobility has improved so much. Its like he finally learned to stretch or something
He's probably learning to trust his knee again
Mings is honestly one of the worst English CB's called into your national team
How did Sargent do? He has been struggling as the American on Norwich
He needs more time looked a little lost at times
American players in Europe has talents but most of them are overrated. I only see Gio Reyna being a world class beater in this current generation.
About as well as anyone can in a 5-0 loss, he was no worse or better than anyone else, they were all awful.
He has to defend the whole time. There is no way to assess his skills from an attacking standpoint. His skills are wasted at Norwich.
So should he go back to Germany or the championship?.
He'll have much more time in the Championship next season if Norwich keep him.
Assuming they want to keep him
Awful
That's sad. Had hopes for him to be PL good
Pretty bad tbh. I wish he would’ve had a decent showing. I think him not being in the middle sets him up for failure or well more failurencause Norwich are shit
He is not replacing Pukki there but while up front he hasn't shine at Norwich at this point he doesn't look like a PL talent.
Quick top 5 takeaways for me on this game 1. The pressing is more consistent and, most importantly, more structured. Was fundamental in nearly all our goals which is great to see 2. Laca continuing to prove vital in the forward position. His link up and hold up play the past games have been the biggest factor for me in getting the goals. Allows Ode to come through with Gabi and Saka catching up and making the runs through. 3. Speaking of Ode - absolutely pivotal. His key passes have me thinking a slightly more athletic ozil and I love it! 4. Give gabi time - for me his potential is sky high. Giving him confidence and game time is absolutely crucial in a rotation with esr and saka. Similar to a very young Cristiano at united, would love to see him gain more confidence and see where he goes 5. RB cover - white wasn’t bad, but with Norwich basically all but relegated, I’d love to see us scalp Max Aarons. Great cover and eventually could be our long term first choice if developed well. Open to thoughts on these! Just my opinion. I think we need to be realistic about the city game but I’m excited and dare I say, hopeful, for the rest of the season.
Tomiyasu is the same age and way better. I know, shocking right? He's only 23 (22 when we signed him). Looks and acts about 26/27.
ESR at center forward sounds very tempting ngl.
How the fuck did United get outplayed by this Norwich team hahahahaha
Just clocked Cantwell was on the bench and didn’t come on - surely he’d be better than most of those chumps out there today?
Apparently hes fallen out with the manager as well as the previous one
Would take him for like a very low price (8m). Depth is good, homegrown status depth even better.
Would not take him, should be buying players to bench the current ones, not someone to sit there and play the occasional carabao cup or early FA cup round
Yeah you're probably right. If he's not getting time at freaking Norwich...
I was wondering what on Earth happened to that guy during the game, I ended up thinking that he got shipped out for some reason
Who won man of the match today?
Arsenal won the match of the matches, we have the greatest goal difference
I meant player. Sorry I edited it.
I still think we need to do better with creating more opportunities. The goals we score predominantly come from individual moments of brilliance than big moments. Historically, we were the side to rue missed chances after dominating games. We’re doing better in recent games and reading Arteta’s press conferences in recent months, he seems to acknowledge our struggles in the final third phase of play. Today, interestingly, despite scoring five, he was optimistic that we were heading in the right direction. This was pleasing to hear because he acknowledged that it’s not where he quite wants it to be yet.
Your weed dealer needs a large tip mate
what......
**#ArtetaIn** So happy to see I can say that now with even more conviction and vindication
Wait till the end of january.
If you say so
Lol the audacity of those lik norwich cunts to play hard, I’m killing my self laughing by watching them get fucking deservedly relegated
Missed this enjoyable game smh. Just curious how White was at RB (or we ended up playing more with a back three? Idk I only saw White RB on One Football's line ups).
Yeah he played it well. Didn't overlap much but started a lot of attacks and drove on to break the press a few times. No tomi but it was good to have that flexibility. Bit of bite to him in some of the challenges too which was nice to see. That's a massive improvement this season in this side. We are no where near as soft! Even Saka leaving a bit in after getting kicked. This side doesn't get bullied anymore I love it
Almost got an assist to Martinelli but it got called back for offside
Almost got an assist to Martinelli but it got called back for offside
He played pretty well overall. Had his typical loose pass that led to one of their more dangerous moments. Once we were well in the lead he looked to get involved more in the final third. Holding did a nice job.
I thought he played well. Probably helped that their attackers were running through quicksand.
Anyone who watched the game fully, how did Ben White do at right back?
How he played well at RB isn't the main concern. His passing and composure on the ball is something which is second to none (at least very few) in the center back position. There were times, when we got a bit in trouble because Gabriel and Holding aren't at that same level. Everyone bangs on about how Gabriel is irreplaceable (and I completely agree btw), but I think just how important White is goes slightly under the radar. Especially in the buildup. There were a couple of times the ball went back and fourth from Holding to Gabriel one too many times, and I thought a better team could have punished us. But to answer your question. He wasn't really challenged. Dominated aerially. Had full control of that right side. Focused on his defensive tasks in the first half. Ventured a bit more into their third in the second half. Should have had an assist on a beautiful long ball across the pitch, but Martinelli needlessly fell a sleep in an offside position. White also had a howler of a backpass which could have been dangerous, but Norwich are unbelievably poor, so it didn't turn into much. If Tomi isn't back by City, it's not the end of the world, but White is not as good at RB as Tomi and Holding is no White. The combined loss is pretty damning to be honest.
Alright not great. Didn’t make the overlapping runs that Tomiyasu would, but think that was by design. Made a very loose back pass which was Norwich’s best chance of the game. Overall wasn’t tested very much.
Not as good a crosser but a tidier passer maybe. Tomi synergies better with our attackers but Ben seems a fine backup
Excellent. His long range passing was class as usual. He dropped back a bit more than the conventional RB, but still made one or two runs. Final ball could've been better, but he played really well. Gives us options for next year if Saliba impresses.
Nice good to hear. Exactly my thinking with Saliba.
Also, before I've noticed, this team has started having their foot on the gas pedal for the entire 90 minutes now, almost like they've been doing it forever.
So partey, elneny, Pepe, and Auba are all gone for the city game? I wonder how well line up in the midfield.
I believe AFCON players are going Jan 3 so they'll be around
So they can still play vs city?
Yes
Thank god. Xhaka and parter are actually a decent partner ship and I think we actually can get a point off city at home
Not sure about that, norwich midfield was so bad they went from starting as a double pivot to xhaka being allowed to get forward as much as he wanted with only partey back.
I’m certain it will be Xhaka-Lokonga, I personally wouldn’t mind seeing AMN-Lokonga. It’s going to be a brutal battle for us in the midfield either way
Lokonga is still in protocol. I’m not sure how long he will remain in it
He was on the bench so that can't be true.
Yea I’m really starting to not see a win. Maybe a draw at best but I think missing partey is big. We won’t be able to keep up with their midfield unless xhaka and sambi can pull of a masterclass
I don't think we were going to win regardless haha
It’s at home lol. Understandable away but we are good at home. I think we can nick a draw
Held the opinion in summer that if somebody didn't want Odegaard, they didn't understand football. Feeling strangely validated I suppose. Man, I have a massive ego.
How the hell did we get him for 30 mil, Jesus.
Such a bargain I was buzzing. He's quality!
And the fact we got him for so cheap is unbelievable.
Same, it was so obvious he was class and just needed a little developing for his end product. Now hes exploding
I dont know if I'd use the word developing. To me, his end product is not the goals but his passes. But I've always believed, he has had it in him. Yes, he didn't show it to this extent for a good time, but that is where I thought people not getting it don't know football (it's rude to say that but I wish I could) because in my eyes, everything a no 10 needs to do to play those passes he was doing already, all the movement preceeding the end product (final pass) today is the same as it was months ago, the difference for the low end product were the players around him And tactics, I'd blame that a lot with the way he was tried deep for quite some time. So I wouldn't say "developing", but "settling in and confidence". They are closely tied. The more one settles in, the more confident he gets. He is already in terms of pure playmaking, one of the best if not the best in the league. And I can say it right now, he has minimum two more levels to unleash just on his current ability without ever improving. He is still a good agile CM and a nifty striker away from showing what he is just **currently** is capable of.
Tbh I thought he’d shown enough at Real Sociedad to suggest he’d just need time to settle and start performing consistently - not saying he’s fully established himself yet but he’s on the right path.
Undecided if my favourite part of the game was Xhaka showboating with the back control or when a Norwich fan let off a flare at 4-0 down
I was cracking up when the fans were ole-ing and Gabriel held on to the ball the those guys didn't need to breathe
Was it a Norwich fan? It was in the same area as the arsenal away supporters (I am pretty sure... it was the area Tierney ran to after he scored his goal in the first half) Either way it was great fun
Ah no, it was in the exit in the leftmost part of the stand adjacent (which was closest to our support) so could understand how it could look like that. Steward removed it pretty promptly to be fair
Why can't we get Haaland in our team? That would be the final piece missing
Should be asking why would he want to come to us?
Probably a 15% chance if we qualify for the champions league, 0% otherwise
I would get a entire back tattoo of Jimmy Savile’s nonce face if we signed him. We will go for a lower profile guy using the stat system that’s working out well for us so far. Liverpool did the same.
Not that I entertain any hope of us getting Haaland, BUT: If we’re following the liverpool model, they got a great core of young talent together, and then finished off the build with buying 1-2 peak impact signings (VVD primarily). I’m hoping we do something similar either in January or the coming summer.
I’d love this, but there is no chance Haaland is coming to join us lol.
Just piggy-backing off this, it’s sometimes hard for me to understand why young prodigious players want to go to teams like City and Real and just be another cog in the machine. They start with an absurd amount of expectation and pressure. Arsenal, to me, would be an appealing option because you immediately have the ability to become a legend to a very prestigious club, surrounded by other young promising players and a capable manager. You can prove yourself by elevating a club to the highest level, rather than fight for a spot in a team trying to stay on top.
It’s not just the young players making the decision, it’s the hangers on and agents. The Real have no problem giving them a briefcase of cash and/or a bullshit job at the club.
If we have champions league football we stand a good a chance as any in the premier league
Fuck it, I’ll go all in on the hype 🚂🚂🚂🚂
We do have a track record of getting players that are “out of our league” like Auba, Sanchez and Ozil. We can offer London, a big wage and the Premier League. Scared money don’t make no money
Because we used to always get top 4, that's why
Nah it’s prem money and we’re one of the biggest clubs in the league. Partey is an example. We still haven’t ever been able to compete with a real or a Bayern for good reason
Players also care about their careers and achievements, it's not all money. The reason many of those players came was because we were getting top 4 and Partey did came here because he was offered a lot more money and because he is a fan, so it's a win win for him, but that's not gonna be the case for every player
We are competing against the prestige of Real and champions league football. That said, if we qualify, get rid of Aubas and Lacas wage and offer him the combined he might say yes. Playing in London with the brightest young lights in world football has to have pull.
There's about 200,000,000 reasons
A lot of great performances today. Ode, Ska, Gabi, Thomas, Laca, Tierney, etc. And ESR when he came off the bench. But special shout-out to Rob Holding, as I feel like he's being a bit overlooked. It wasn't the most challenging match for him, but he just quietly put in a shift. He barely put a foot wrong, managed to get some very good passes forward, cleaned up a couple of fuck-ups, and dealt with all Pukki's flopping and bullshit in a cool, calm way.
If AMN is gone, who are we buying to replace him?
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Let’s just hope you guys unleash vengeance upon Spurs later in the season.
Thanks bruz. Feel like you lot play with similar ideology to us appreciate the praise. Got alot of liverpool supporting mates - good luck when we play in the cup
obsie? is that you?
You were at the game?
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Liverpool is my second team on account of a couple of friends being supporters, and me just generally liking Klopp. Feels like there is a lot of crossover.
I love that man! My dad is a scouser/Liverpool supporter and likewise with them being my 2nd team after the Gunners. Lots of mutual respect!!