Arsenal FC | 2020/21 Season

[Kroll]

I know Willian's individual stats are woeful but i'd love to see a comparison of what the team has produced with him on the pitch compared to when he's not there.

It's always seems like the team play noticeably improves when Willian isn't around.

Willian has played in most of Arsenal's PL matches this season so there isn't a big enough sample size to determine this verdict. What you may be alluding to is that he's not played in some of Arsenal's recent matches or has had little game time and you may have seen a notable improvement.

Anyhow, I couldn't find anything where you can pull a "with Willian/without Willian Arsenal" stats directly but I've hashed together some stats that you may find useful. I've tried to be careful in maintaining accuracy.

As I stated, Willian has played in most of Arsenal's matches this season and in quite a few of these, being substituted around the mid 60 minute mark. We know Arsenal haven't performed very well for the majority of the season. Ironically, Willian's very first PL match against Fulham away has been his best so far providing all 3 assists in a 3-0 victory.

Since then, he's not had much output playing all matches until recently only missing out on the home match against Leicester in a 1-0 defeat on the 25 October. After that, he's only missed the recent matches against Chelsea and Brighton. Against Arsenal's last PL opponent WBA, he came on as a substitute in the 71st minute.

It has to be noted, in all of these matches, Arsenal's performances had improved considerably beating Chelsea 3-1 (H), Brighton 1-0 (A) and WBA 4-0 (A). So far, it can be seen that the team without Willian is doing better.

This obviously might not just be down to the omission of Willian or (Wontian?) as a number of young players have stepped up to the mark and Lacazette, Aubameyang seem to have regained their confidence. We'll just have to monitor things going forward.

Source: https://www.premierleague.com/

 

[hitthestump]

Willian has played in most of Arsenal's PL matches this season so there isn't a big enough sample size to determine this verdict. What you may be alluding to is that he's not played in some of Arsenal's recent matches or has had little game time and you may have seen a notable improvement.

Anyhow, I couldn't find anything where you can pull a "with Willian/without Willian Arsenal" stats directly but I've hashed together some stats that you may find useful. I've tried to be careful in maintaining accuracy.

As I stated, Willian has played in most of Arsenal's matches this season and in quite a few of these, being substituted around the mid 60 minute mark. We know Arsenal haven't performed very well for the majority of the season. Ironically, Willian's very first PL match against Fulham away has been his best so far providing all 3 assists in a 3-0 victory.

Since then, he's not had much output playing all matches until recently only missing out on the home match against Leicester in a 1-0 defeat on the 25 October. After that, he's only missed the recent matches against Chelsea and Brighton. Against Arsenal's last PL opponent WBA, he came on as a substitute in the 71st minute.

It has to be noted, in all of these matches, Arsenal's performances had improved considerably beating Chelsea 3-1 (H), Brighton 1-0 (A) and WBA 4-0 (A). So far, it can be seen that the team without Willian is doing better.

This obviously might not just be down to the omission of Willian or (Wontian?) as a number of young players have stepped up to the mark and Lacazette, Aubameyang seem to have regained their confidence. We'll just have to monitor things going forward.

Source: https://www.premierleague.com/

That's very interesting, thank you. Over a small sample it seems the team is better without Willian, but like you say it could be down to a multiple of reasons which may not bear any relevance to him at all.

Looking like this might be the worst signing Arsenal have made in recent times either way.

 

[Gabbar Singh]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Saliba voted Nice man of the match against Metz last night. What a week for him. Medical Monday, 1st training session Tuesday, debut Wednesday (Nice’s best player v Brest in his first competitive game for 10 months), official presentation Friday, 2nd game in 3 days Saturday <a href="https://t.co/bGo1DjhONT">https://t.co/bGo1DjhONT</a></p>— Matt Spiro (@mattspiro) <a href="https://twitter.com/mattspiro/status/1348229957965774848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 10, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

 

[silentkiller187]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Saliba voted Nice man of the match against Metz last night. What a week for him. Medical Monday, 1st training session Tuesday, debut Wednesday (Nice’s best player v Brest in his first competitive game for 10 months), official presentation Friday, 2nd game in 3 days Saturday &#55357;&#56490;&#55357;&#56399; <a href="https://t.co/bGo1DjhONT">https://t.co/bGo1DjhONT</a></p>— Matt Spiro (@mattspiro) <a href="https://twitter.com/mattspiro/status/1348229957965774848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 10, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

But hes not ready for arsenal , looks like Arteta couldn't manage the guy so made up some rubbish to ship him out.

 

[silentkiller187]

That's very interesting, thank you. Over a small sample it seems the team is better without Willian, but like you say it could be down to a multiple of reasons which may not bear any relevance to him at all.

Looking like this might be the worst signing Arsenal have made in recent times either way.

All you need is the naked eye to see how bad a signing Willian has been for Arsenal dw about the stats.

 

[MenInG]

ARSENAL CONFIRM HOLDING NEW DEAL

Arsenal have announced that defender Rob Holding has signed a new long-term contract with the club.

The centre-back has signed a new deal until summer 2024 with the option of an additional year.

 

[Rana]

Getting a strange feeling that another home defeat is on the way...

 

[IMMY69]

Getting a strange feeling that another home defeat is on the way...

We've been awful.

AMN not a patch on Tierney...

 

[Gabbar Singh]

That Chelsea match really has turned around Arsenal's season.

 

[Firebat]

Mikel Arteta focusing on recruits after trimming 'unmanageable' squad

Mikel Arteta says he is now focusing on bringing players in during the transfer window after successfully trimming his "unmanageable squad".

The Arsenal boss was keen to offload players this month after being forced to leave the likes of Mesut Ozil and Sokratis out of his Premier League and Europa League squads due to registration restrictions.

He got his wish after Sokratis agreed to end his contract early on Wednesday, while Sead Kolasinac and William Saliba have also left the club on loan and Ozil is set to join Fenerbahce.

Arteta says the second half of the window will now be about strengthening his squad, saying: "We are in that process right now. We've done the first part more or less and we are focusing now on the second phase.

"Obviously this market and the context makes it really difficult but we are looking at options and we will see what we can do."

Arteta says he is keen to bolster his options in various positions - particularly left-back - although he refused to comment on Arsenal's approach for Real Madrid midfielder Martin Odegaard.

"We are a little bit short with left-footed full-backs," he said. "We know we can use Ainsley [Maitland-Niles] there, we can use Bukayo [Saka] there, we can use Cedric, who has played in that position. We have some options.

"The natural option is Kieran [Tierney] but we can adapt. That option is open are we are looking to see what is available.

"We are looking at various positions because the movements we have made in this transfer window, with some players leaving the club, leaves us a little bit short in certain areas.

"So if we can, we will do it, and if we can't, we'll just keep going with what we have."

The departure of four players who were not part of his plans will come as a relief to Arteta, who believes a smaller squad is more conducive to maintaining players' motivation.

He said: "We could not carry on with 31 players in the squad - it is unmanageable. As well when you have to leave some of the foreign players out, it makes it more difficult.

"For a few weeks, it's OK, but to do it for months and maintain the health, ambition and chemistry around the place is really complicated.

"So one of the main objectives was to make some decisions on how we're going to offset that and we've done it.

"Just for me, the important thing is that everybody feels involved and that they have a chance. They're all fighting for a place but at the end, they need to feel they have the opportunity to play.

"When you are completely out, that is out of the equation, and that makes it really difficult to find motivation."

https://www.skysports.com/football/...on-recruits-after-trimming-unmanageable-squad

 

[Firebat]

Arsenal have made an approach for Real Madrid and Norway midfielder Martin Odegaard, 22. (Sky Sports)

However, Odegaard is said to be nearing a loan move to Sevilla. (Cuatro)

 

[KoyoAli]

Arsenal sign Ryan on loan
New (loan) signing klaxon!

Arsenal have signed goalkeeper Mat Ryan on loan from Brighton until the end of the season.

The 28-year-old Australian international joined Albion in June 2017 shortly after the club were promoted to the Premier League.

He was the club’s first choice for almost three and a half seasons, before being overtaken by Rob Sanchez in mid-December.

 

[KoyoAli]

Reports : Martin Ødegaard has decided to join Arsenal over Real Sociedad

The deal is expected to be completed in the coming hours. Arsenal and Real Madrid are in contact to reach the agreement - Real want a ‘simple’ loan until June.

Arteta spoke directly with the player - key factor.

 

[IAJ]

Reports : Martin Ødegaard has decided to join Arsenal over Real Sociedad

The deal is expected to be completed in the coming hours. Arsenal and Real Madrid are in contact to reach the agreement - Real want a ‘simple’ loan until June.

Arteta spoke directly with the player - key factor.

If they are looking for a direct replacement for Özil, then Martin is an ideal choice for Arsenal.

 

[MenInG]

FT Southampton 1-0 Arsenal

Disgraceful exit - Arteta's reign full of holes at the moment.

 

[Gabbar Singh]

Is Willian going to become another Ozil - not good enough and so lazy but wages so high that no one will buy him?

 

[Rana]

Hor Karo "We back Arteta"!

Write off season. Only a matter of time when we are knocked out of Europa league!

 

[Firebat]

Southampton knock holders Arsenal out of FA Cup

A strong Southampton side knocked holders Arsenal out of the FA Cup in the fourth round courtesy of a first-half own goal on Saturday.

The Saints were rewarded for their attacking intent in the opening period when Gabriel turned in Kyle Walker-Peters' cross in the 24th minute.

It was the first goal Arsenal had conceded in 508 minutes as they suffered a first loss in seven matches.

Southampton will face another Premier League side, Wolves, in the next round.

With their next opponents enduring a poor run in the league and having struggled in their 1-0 win at non-league Chorley on Friday, the 1976 winners will fancy their chances of progressing further at Molineux.

The Saints also went close through Che Adams, whose low, angled strike was saved brilliantly by Bernd Leno, and James Ward-Prowse, who saw his delivery from a corner come off the bar.

In the second half, substitute striker Shane Long fell under a challenge in the box, but penalty appeals were waved away by referee Peter Bankes.

Arsenal were without forward Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and midfielder Emile Smith Rowe, while another in-form player, Bukayo Saka, was only introduced in the second half.

Mikel Arteta's Gunners side were tepid as an attacking force during the first 45 minutes, but looked more of a threat after the break.

However, Eddie Nketiah's deflected shot in the 67th minute, which was superbly dealt with by home goalkeeper Fraser Forster, was their only effort of note.

https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/55766734

 

[hitthestump]

Is Willian going to become another Ozil - not good enough and so lazy but wages so high that no one will buy him?

Probably. He doesn't want to leave London.

 

[MenInG]

Mikel Arteta is unsure when Pierre-Emerick Aubemeyang will return for Arsenal as the striker deals with a "personal issue".

Aubameyang was left out of Arsenal's squad for today's FA Cup defeat against Southampton.

 

[PetroDollars]

Is Willian going to become another Ozil - not good enough and so lazy but wages so high that no one will buy him?

Willian lazy?

Probably the last player who will be lazy, he's a workhorse, don't blame the managers issues on the players. Theres a reason Jose wanted Willian so badly at MU, he's an engine.

 

[Gabbar Singh]

Willian lazy?

Probably the last player who will be lazy, he's a workhorse, don't blame the managers issues on the players. Theres a reason Jose wanted Willian so badly at MU, he's an engine.

The past is the past - in recent months he’s looked disinterested and yes lazy - poor movement, seems like he’s lost some pace and generally just looks like he lacks desire. Certainly doesn’t look like a £200k/week player right now.

 

[PetroDollars]

The past is the past - in recent months he’s looked disinterested and yes lazy - poor movement, seems like he’s lost some pace and generally just looks like he lacks desire. Certainly doesn’t look like a £200k/week player right now.

Hes 32 now so he would've lost a yard of pace, but he was always a workhorse, what's happening at arsenal with good players doing poorly and an out and out goal scorer in auba struggling, is what happens when you get a clown as your manager, im 100% sure if Willian was playing for Ole, he would be running his socks off.

 

[Firebat]

Martin Odegaard: Arsenal close to completing loan deal with Real Madrid

Arsenal hope to complete the loan signing of attacking midfielder Martin Odegaard from Real Madrid on Tuesday.

The 22-year-old Norwegian has struggled to make an impact in Real manager Zinedine Zidane's squad this season.

Real Sociedad, where Odegaard spent last season on loan, and Eredivisie leaders Ajax were also keen on signing him.

However, Arsenal have reached an agreement and he could feature on Saturday against Manchester United.

Spanish football expert Guillem Balague said Real Madrid blocked him going back to Sociedad as they wanted him to move to the London club.

His arrival at Emirates Stadium comes after the departure of playmaker Mesut Ozil to Fenerbahce.

Odegaard joined Real Madrid from Stromgodset in January 2015 and has played nine times for Real this season.

After returning to the Bernabeu in the summer following his Sociedad loan, it seemed he might become a first-team regular at Real Madrid under Zidane, who coached him in the B team when he first joined the club.

But after starting the first two La Liga games of the season, he has featured only once from the outset of a league game since - on 21 November.

https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/55784051

 

[Gabbar Singh]

 

[The Viper]

Martin Odegaard: Arsenal sign Real Madrid midfielder on loan

Arsenal have signed Real Madrid attacking midfielder Martin Odegaard on loan until the end of the season.

The 22-year-old Norwegian has struggled to make an impact in Real manager Zinedine Zidane's squad this season.

Real Sociedad, where Odegaard spent last season on loan, and Eredivisie leaders Ajax were also interested.

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta said: "Martin is of course a player we all know very well. Although still young, he has been playing at the top level for a while."

Arteta said Odegarrd will "provide us with quality offensive options" and the Norway international could feature on Saturday in the Premier League against Manchester United.

Arsenal technical director Edu said the club had brought in an "exceptional talent".

Spanish football expert Guillem Balague said Real Madrid blocked Odegaard going back to Sociedad because they wanted him to move to the Premier League club.

His arrival at Emirates Stadium comes after the departure of playmaker Mesut Ozil to Fenerbahce.

Odegaard joined Real Madrid from Stromsgodset in January 2015 and has played nine times for Real this season.

After returning to the Bernabeu in the summer following his Sociedad loan, it seemed he might become a first-team regular at Real Madrid under Zidane, who coached him in the B team when he first joined the club.

But after starting the first two La Liga games of the season, he has featured only once from the outset of a league game since - on 21 November.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/55784051

 

[Mamoon]

Relegation dogfight in full flow... [MENTION=133972]shaykh[/MENTION]

 

[MenInG]

So can Arsenal continue their positive momentum?

 

[Firebat]

FT: Wolves 2-1 Arsenal

What have I just watched.

One of the best 45 minutes of football I’ve seen played under Arteta, followed by ... I don’t even know what to say. Best league in the world with the worst referees in the world.

I’m honestly speechless. Villa next, the sooner we move on from this the better my mental health.

 

[KingKhanWC]

2 red cards for Arsenal. I didnt watch the game but seems Arteta cant instill discipline into this players.

 

[hitthestump]

2 red cards for Arsenal. I didnt watch the game but seems Arteta cant instill discipline into this players.

The decision against Luiz was never a red. It was arguably not even a foul.

 

[Firebat]

2 red cards for Arsenal. I didnt watch the game but seems Arteta cant instill discipline into this players.

If you had, you would know it had nothing to do with Arteta nor discipline. One outrageous decision and one inexplicable brain fade. Arteta set this team up brilliantly, and they utterly dominated and tore Wolves apart for 47 minutes in the first half.

Even the greatest manager on the planet would only be able to watch what unfolded after that helplessly with head in hands.

 

[IMMY69]

That was so unlucky.

Thoroughly dominated Wolves until the most unlucky red card one will ever see in football.

 

[Mamoon]

Shocking referring. The referee was influenced by Luiz’s reputation rather than the challenge. It wasn’t even a penalty, let alone red card.

Arsenal deserves to win. On any other day, it would have been a 1-0 or 2-0 to Arsenal.

 

[Mamoon]

2 red cards for Arsenal. I didnt watch the game but seems Arteta cant instill discipline into this players.

Try watching the game before commenting.

 

[in_cutter]

Shocking referring. The referee was influenced by Luiz’s reputation rather than the challenge. It wasn’t even a penalty, let alone red card.

Arsenal deserves to win. On any other day, it would have been a 1-0 or 2-0 to Arsenal.

It WAS penalty because Luiz clipped him. Regarding the red card, the ref was just enforcing the stupid rule. Not the ref’s fault there.

And wth was Leno thinking?!

 

[PakLFC]

After a good run Arsenal have put themselves in a position to finish in the top four. I did think they'd lose to Wolves yesterday like they did. Still unconvinced that Arteta will take them to the next level. No way near being a top side or title contenders, forget it.

 

[IMMY69]

It WAS penalty because Luiz clipped him. Regarding the red card, the ref was just enforcing the stupid rule. Not the ref’s fault there.

And wth was Leno thinking?!

You're right the ref had no choice but to show red card.
However if you see the slow mo replay it was the strikers leg hitting Liuz's foot, not the other way around...

Leno's brain lapse was indefensible.

 

[Hasan123]

Luiz should have never been sent off. Awful refereeing cost us the game.

 

[IMMY69]

Today's loss falls to Arteta.
You have to be a pathetic brainless **** to bring on Willian ahead of Martineli or Cabellos.

Also Pepe should have been substituted... the man just shoots when he should be laying it off for the strikers... shot after useless shot

 

[IMMY69]

Oh and he sanctioned the sale of Martinez

 

[Gabbar Singh]

Willian’s Arsenal record:

22 games
0 goals
3 assists (all of which game in his first game)
Salary £220k/week.

You’d be better off just playing an untested academy player instead.

 

[IMMY69]

Willian’s Arsenal record:

22 games
0 goals
3 assists (all of which game in his first game)
Salary £220k/week.

You’d be better off just playing an untested academy player instead.

It's just disgusting.

We had options on the bench and he brought on Willian!!!

Watching post match analysis I think a definite penalty wasn't awarded to us.

 

[SpiritOf1903]

The guys out of his depth.

 

[shaykh]

Subs were a disaster...as a Villa fan I was delighted when Auba and Willian came on ...

I’ve reassessed a bit though...and I guess the question for Arsenal fans is how good do you think your players are?...

Honestly speaking as a Villa fan very few of your players would get into our side...

None of your backline except Tierney but even then I’m not sure I’d have him simply cos he spends all his time injured ...

I’d obviously take Saka...Martinelli would get into our squad...and I’d take Partey...but other than that no-one...maybe ESR but that’s not cos I think he’s special yet...it’s more I think Barkley has been an awful signing for us...I’d pretty much take any 10 over Barkley ...

So how good are you really man for man?...so in that sense is Arteta underachieving considering the players at his disposal?...

However that said...the thing I can’t give him a pass on is he seems to value some of these mediocre players...Holding’s new contract, convincing Xhaka to stay, possibly extending Luiz’s contract, not selling Bellerin to PSG, playing Willian ...if Arteta was actually committed to overhauling this poor squad that is used as a defence for Arsenal’s league position then you could give Arteta a pass ...

 

[topspin]

Deeply disturbed by the video I've seen filmed by Saliba. No wonder Arteta offloaded him.
[MENTION=131701]Mamoon[/MENTION] you were right about this guy.
[MENTION=141114]Hasan123[/MENTION]

 

[SpiritOf1903]

There's an even worse one around of an Irish player :/ but four years old that one of Cesare Saliba

 

[Hasan123]

Deeply disturbed by the video I've seen filmed by Saliba. No wonder Arteta offloaded him.
[MENTION=131701]Mamoon[/MENTION] you were right about this guy.
[MENTION=141114]Hasan123[/MENTION]

He was 16 at the time. We should avoid judging players by what they do in their free time and concentrate on there football ability.

That video was disgusting but I think he can be a top CB.

 

[Mamoon]

Deeply disturbed by the video I've seen filmed by Saliba. No wonder Arteta offloaded him.
[MENTION=131701]Mamoon[/MENTION] you were right about this guy.
[MENTION=141114]Hasan123[/MENTION]

I don’t want to judge him on this because a lot of footballers do a lot of weird and stupid things. Not everything is leaked into the media or goes viral.

However, it is very obvious that he has attitude problems and he will not make it at any big club unless he sorts these attitude issues.

He is still crying about Arteta not giving him a chance instead of putting his head down and working hard quietly so that he can get his shot later.

Looks like he is not learning from his mistakes. A sense of entitlement has killed the careers of many talented young players and Saliba could be heading down the same road.

If you don’t have patience and if you don’t have respect for your manager, your chances of success decrease alarmingly.

Saliba lacks both virtues in abundance.

 

[topspin]

He was 16 at the time. We should avoid judging players by what they do in their free time and concentrate on there football ability.

That video was disgusting but I think he can be a top CB.

I don’t want to judge him on this because a lot of footballers do a lot of weird and stupid things. Not everything is leaked into the media or goes viral.

However, it is very obvious that he has attitude problems and he will not make it at any big club unless he sorts these attitude issues.

He is still crying about Arteta not giving him a chance instead of putting his head down and working hard quietly so that he can get his shot later.

Looks like he is not learning from his mistakes. A sense of entitlement has killed the careers of many talented young players and Saliba could be heading down the same road.

If you don’t have patience and if you don’t have respect for your manager, your chances of success decrease alarmingly.

Saliba lacks both virtues in abundance.

We've all been guilty of doing silly things when we were younger, so I'm not one to judge but in this case I have to make an exception. This was disgusting behaviour. The way he was smiling and being all smug about it tells me that this kid lacks maturity, even if it was 3 years ago.

I certainly don't want our players sharing a dressing room with him otherwise Arsenal will receive a very angry letter of complaint from me.

 

[Mamoon]

We've all been guilty of doing silly things when we were younger, so I'm not one to judge but in this case I have to make an exception. This was disgusting behaviour. The way he was smiling and being all smug about it tells me that this kid lacks maturity, even if it was 3 years ago.

I certainly don't want our players sharing a dressing room with him otherwise Arsenal will receive a very angry letter of complaint from me.

It will be best if Arsenal sell him.

Arteta doesn’t like him and he doesn’t like Arteta, and the former is not going anywhere.

When he comes back, it is not as if he is going to flick a switch and change his attitude. He is still not showing any change and he is still criticizing Arteta.

It is obvious that he is not going to change. If he could, he would zip it now and focus on his performance in Nice and try win a place in the starting XI at Arsenal next season.

I was personally looking forward to him learning a lesson and coming back a better man, but after his latest statement that Arteta judged him on two-and-a-half matches, it is clear that he is still playing the victim card and blaming Arteta.

Whether Arteta wronged him or not is not the point. This kid has a sense of entitlement and has no patience and respect, and he is never going to be far away from a controversy or throwing a tantrum when things do not go his way.

With this attitude, I think he is going to rot in mid-table of Ligue 1 forever, but if any big club shows interests in him, accepts his attitude problems he goes onto become a world class CB, so be it.

He comes across as a toxic, unlikable character. Keep him away from the club.

 

[topspin]

It will be best if Arsenal sell him.

Arteta doesn’t like him and he doesn’t like Arteta, and the former is not going anywhere.

When he comes back, it is not as if he is going to flick a switch and change his attitude. He is still not showing any change and he is still criticizing Arteta.

It is obvious that he is not going to change. If he could, he would zip it now and focus on his performance in Nice and try win a place in the starting XI at Arsenal next season.

I was personally looking forward to him learning a lesson and coming back a better man, but after his latest statement that Arteta judged him on two-and-a-half matches, it is clear that he is still playing the victim card and blaming Arteta.

Whether Arteta wronged him or not is not the point. This kid has a sense of entitlement and has no patience and respect, and he is never going to be far away from a controversy or throwing a tantrum when things do not go his way.

With this attitude, I think he is going to rot in mid-table of Ligue 1 forever, but if any big club shows interests in him, accepts his attitude problems he goes onto become a world class CB, so be it.

He comes across as a toxic, unlikable character. Keep him away from the club.

Agreed. The sooner we get rid of him the better it will be for him and Arsenal.

 

[Hasan123]

We've all been guilty of doing silly things when we were younger, so I'm not one to judge but in this case I have to make an exception. This was disgusting behaviour. The way he was smiling and being all smug about it tells me that this kid lacks maturity, even if it was 3 years ago.

I certainly don't want our players sharing a dressing room with him otherwise Arsenal will receive a very angry letter of complaint from me.

I think you should worry about his footballing ability and not what he did when he was 16 and if players will feel comfortable sharing a dressing room with him.

He will be a top class CB, Arsenal have invested a lot of money in him so he isn’t going anywhere. And my understanding is Arteta will want to use him next season as well.

 

[SpiritOf1903]

Agreed. The sooner we get rid of him the better it will be for him and Arsenal.

He's one of the most promising defenders in Europe who outshone Fofana at St Etienne who's being touted as the next superstar.

It's a disgusting story but that's just football I'm afraid, with Chad Evans far from an exception.

Arteta is trying to be the General without the football nous. Stats and Data are nothing without intuition.

 

[MenInG]

Arsenal's Europa League round-of-32 second leg against Benfica will take place at Stadio Georgios Karaiskakis in Athens due to coronavirus travel restrictions.

 

[Mamoon]

So that’s your benchmark ...providing Arteta finishes 17th he should be kept on ...

I don’t get why you lol at the suggestion you could get relegated...it’s a very real possibility ...

Sheff Utd and West Brom are a cert for the first two spots ...

Fulham look like a decent team right now...robbed against Newcastle...deserved a win against Liverpool ...they are currently a better side than you ...

Burnley have just beaten you, drawn with us, and beaten Wolves...and they have a good manager...they aren’t going down ...

Brighton have an overrated manager ...and are a side whose finishing has let them down...but unlike you guys they actually create ...that said it wouldn’t surprise me if they went down ...

Your arrogance is so unfounded ...you have won 1 of your last 10 games...you have scored 4 goals in your last 10 games ...

You may well survive but what makes you think your chances of staying up are better than any of those sides above?...

Because if the current squad of Arsenal play to their potential, they will comfortably beat these sides. You are confusing current form with squad potential.

This Arsenal team is still top 10 material, but the problem is that they are woefully short on confidence. All they need is one win and they string a few together and climb up the table.

I know you are licking your lips at the prospects of Arsenal finishing 17th or below, but it will never happen.

I expect Arsenal to finish around 9 or 10 even if they don’t spend a penny in January.

Three of Sheffield, West Brom, Burnley, Brighton and Fulham will go down.

Not really ...your own fans without agenda or delusion respect the fact that being 15th, winning 2 of your last 10, barely creating chances every game means you are in a dogfight just like the clubs around you ...

So you’re confident you’re getting points against Chelsea and Brighton ?

I am confident that the club will win enough games over the remaining 24 matches to finish 9th or 10th.

Arsenal is and not and never will be in a “relegation dogfight”. You can keep dreaming.

You’re in one now...

[MENTION=133972]shaykh[/MENTION]

Since Arsenal are about to get relegated, do you think Arteta can win the Championship next season?

 

[Kroll]

Auba! What a player, what a man!

Auba is back!

 

[Mamoon]

Madrid would need some funds this summer so they might be tempted to sell Odegaard for a decent price.

He looked really good today, Arsenal lack someone of his technical ability and passing range from the flanks.

He is clearly a very talented player with good end-product. Will start for most PL teams.

 

[Rana]

Emile Smith Rowe has not failed to impress every time I have seen him play

Also Saka is a gem of a footballer. Reminds me of a young Raheem Sterling, slightly slower but similarly creative in his direct approach to the game.

 

[Hasan123]

I would assess Odegaard situation at the end of the season before saying if we sign him permanently. But he started well today.

 

[Hasan123]

[MENTION=131701]Mamoon[/MENTION], I keep an eye on City games as well as Arsenal games. I think Arteta is trying to develop our team similar to City's but he will obviously need more quality players. Both teams play with 4-2-3-1 .

Saka is our Sterling.
Odegaard is similar to Bernardo Silva
Pepe is our Mahrez but not as good
Smith Rowe is our Foden but not as good

I would like to see us sign another top quality attacking midfielder so we have our own Kevin De Bryne, get rid of Willian with a right footed winger who can play either wing, and a striker to replace Lacazette who excels in hold up play and has more physicality and stamina than Laca.

 

[topspin]

[MENTION=131701]Mamoon[/MENTION] [MENTION=141114]Hasan123[/MENTION]

Do you think we will Europa this year? The only two teams I can see overcoming us are Spurs and Man U.

I want to see progress in the PL but we are almost certain to miss out on top 4. Badly want to see us return to the CL.

 

[Hasan123]

[MENTION=131701]Mamoon[/MENTION] [MENTION=141114]Hasan123[/MENTION]

Do you think we will Europa this year? The only two teams I can see overcoming us are Spurs and Man U.

I want to see progress in the PL but we are almost certain to miss out on top 4. Badly want to see us return to the CL.

I don't see us winning the Europa League unfortunately.

 

[Firebat]

Arsenal have been told they can sign Celtic striker Odsonne Edouard, 23, for just £15m. (Express)

==================================================

With Lacazette very likely moving on in the summer and Auba getting on in age, this could be a really astute cheap purchase. Highly rated young player to compete with Martinelli.

 

[Mamoon]

[MENTION=131701]Mamoon[/MENTION] [MENTION=141114]Hasan123[/MENTION]

Do you think we will Europa this year? The only two teams I can see overcoming us are Spurs and Man U.

I want to see progress in the PL but we are almost certain to miss out on top 4. Badly want to see us return to the CL.

Not just Spurs and Man United, the likes of Milan, Leicester, Ajax, Roma, Napoli, Benfica, Leverkusen and Villarreal will all be tough to overcome.

Arsenal have a very slight chance of winning it and will need to play out of their skins and have some considerable luck as well.

It would be hilarious if Emery knocks Arteta out. Villarreal is a solid team and Emery is king of Europa. It would be some redemption and revenge for Emery.

 

[KingKhanWC]

Not just Spurs and Man United, the likes of Milan, Leicester, Ajax, Roma, Napoli, Benfica, Leverkusen and Villarreal will all be tough to overcome.

Arsenal have a very slight chance of winning it and will need to play out of their skins and have some considerable luck as well.

It would be hilarious if Emery knocks Arteta out. Villarreal is a solid team and Emery is king of Europa. It would be some redemption and revenge for Emery.

Benfica are finding some form after a poor start. It wont be easy for Arsenal.

The bigger question is which league position will keep Arteta in the job? Arsenal have a tougher games from now on until the end of the season, starting off v City.

Never thought the day would come with Arsenal happy to finish 10th.

 

[Mamoon]

Benfica are finding some form after a poor start. It wont be easy for Arsenal.

The bigger question is which league position will keep Arteta in the job? Arsenal have a tougher games from now on until the end of the season, starting off v City.

Never thought the day would come with Arsenal happy to finish 10th.

He will not get sacked regardless of how the season ends. He has shown improvement in the last couple of months and the young players are finally responding to his coaching.

If they didn’t sack him in December when Arsenal were hovering above relegation zone they will not sack him now.

Arteta is rated very highly by the club and he was brought because the club are thinking long-term. He never lost support of the hierarchy.

 

[KingKhanWC]

He will not get sacked regardless of how the season ends. He has shown improvement in the last couple of months and the young players are finally responding to his coaching.

If they didn’t sack him in December when Arsenal were hovering above relegation zone they will not sack him now.

Arteta is rated very highly by the club and he was brought because the club are thinking long-term. He never lost support of the hierarchy.

Klopp finished 8th in his first season but wasnt a full season, so it's fine hanging on to him. But if he doesnt make top 4 in second he will be gonnner not goooner.

 

[Mamoon]

Klopp finished 8th in his first season but wasnt a full season, so it's fine hanging on to him. But if he doesnt make top 4 in second he will be gonnner not goooner.

If the team shows improvement they will stick with him, it doesn’t matter if he finishes 4th, 5th or 6th.

It is not right to be rigid about making top 4 and getting fixated with positions. You can miss top 4 by 1-2 points as well, it doesn’t mean anything.

Klopp made top 4 in his second season but only by a point. Had he missed out by a point and Liverpool would have sacked him, it would have been Liverpool’s loss.

Rival fans don’t understand Arsenal’s philosophy. Arsenal is a not a trigger happy club that gives managers ultimatum and then sacks them.

They predicted Arteta to be sacked in December but it was obvious that it was not going to happen, and now they expect him to be gone next season if he doesn’t make top 4.

It won’t happen. Arsenal’s culture is different. As long as Arteta shows continues to build on his good work recently, he will stay in his job regardless of whether he can make top 4 next season or not.

Arsenal is not a club that is going to spend big one summer in the hope of making top 4 or fight for the title right away; it will focus on making incremental steps. Arteta will fight for the top 4 and eventually for the title as well, but it will take 4-5 years.

Emery got sacked within 2 seasons because of two major reasons: 1. The structure of the club was remodeled after Wenger and Emery was the head coach not manager. 2. There was a communication barrier between him and the players.

The structure has now reverted back to the Wenger era and Arteta is now a manager and not a head coach, and in the future he will have a greater say in how the club is run and in the transfer window.

He is the true successor to Wenger after the club went into a different direction briefly with Emery and it did not work. Arteta is not going anywhere and he will slowly but surely make things much better.

 

[SpiritOf1903]

If the team shows improvement they will stick with him, it doesn’t matter if he finishes 4th, 5th or 6th.

It is not right to be rigid about making top 4 and getting fixated with positions. You can miss top 4 by 1-2 points as well, it doesn’t mean anything.

Klopp made top 4 in his second season but only by a point. Had he missed out by a point and Liverpool would have sacked him, it would have been Liverpool’s loss.

Rival fans don’t understand Arsenal’s philosophy. Arsenal is a not a trigger happy club that gives managers ultimatum and then sacks them.

They predicted Arteta to be sacked in December but it was obvious that it was not going to happen, and now they expect him to be gone next season if he doesn’t make top 4.

It won’t happen. Arsenal’s culture is different. As long as Arteta shows continues to build on his good work recently, he will stay in his job regardless of whether he can make top 4 next season or not.

Arsenal is not a club that is going to spend big one summer in the hope of making top 4 or fight for the title right away; it will focus on making incremental steps. Arteta will fight for the top 4 and eventually for the title as well, but it will take 4-5 years.

Emery got sacked within 2 seasons because of two major reasons: 1. The structure of the club was remodeled after Wenger and Emery was the head coach not manager. 2. There was a communication barrier between him and the players.

The structure has now reverted back to the Wenger era and Arteta is now a manager and not a head coach, and in the future he will have a greater say in how the club is run and in the transfer window.

He is the true successor to Wenger after the club went into a different direction briefly with Emery and it did not work. Arteta is not going anywhere and he will slowly but surely make things much better.

Arsenal have become satisfied being a mid-table club, that's why. Look at Chelsea and look at Arsenal.

A club of that stature has been sold down the river by Kroenke and Liverpool ought to be wary of suffering the same fate.

This isn't a club that should be used as an apprenticeship.

Pirlo will likely be gone from Juve without silverware and no other 'elite' club would be satisfied with 10th with a third of the season left.

There's no specific 'style' either and under his watch, he's signed Willian and pushed out Ozil.

He's losing Balogun, shipped out Guendouzi, likewise Torreira. He doesn't have great man management skills seemingly

 

[Mamoon]

Arsenal have become satisfied being a mid-table club, that's why. Look at Chelsea and look at Arsenal.

A club of that stature has been sold down the river by Kroenke and Liverpool ought to be wary of suffering the same fate.

This isn't a club that should be used as an apprenticeship.

Pirlo will likely be gone from Juve without silverware and no other 'elite' club would be satisfied with 10th with a third of the season left.

There's no specific 'style' either and under his watch, he's signed Willian and pushed out Ozil.

He's losing Balogun, shipped out Guendouzi, likewise Torreira. He doesn't have great man management skills seemingly

Arsenal does not have a rich billionaire calling the shots. Abramovich can spend big in one summer and sack his manager every season because he can afford to do it.

There is no point in comparing Arsenal and Chelsea because the situation is not the same. If Arsenal is bought by some billionaire who acts like a dictator, it will also show ambition like Chelsea.

The Arsenal model is similar to Man United and Liverpool, but Man United is a bigger club and commercially more successful which is why they generate more revenue. Liverpool is also a bigger club but they don’t spend big either.

Klopp got lucky that he managed to sell Coutinho for 100m+ and used that money to shore up his back-line, otherwise he would still be hunting FA Cup and Carabao Cup.

Arsenal does not have a player that they can sell for 100m, and neither can they spend enough money in a summer to turn things around overnight. It will take baby steps and they have faith in Arteta.

Arteta does not have a problem with young players who don’t have attitude problems and work hard. Saka, ESR, Tierney etc. are thriving under him. Martinelli will also get a proper run once he gets up to match speed.

Ozil was washed up and leeching the club and had to be booted out. Guendouzi is another trouble-maker like Saliba. Torreira is an average player who did not want to be in England.

If Balogun has no patience and wants to leave, good for him, but with this attitude he will struggle to break into any top side.

Harry Kane waited 6 years and had 4 loan spells before he finally got a chance to play for the Spurs first-team. He did not throw tantrums and did not cry about not getting first team chances right away. He put his head down and worked hard until he got his chance and now he is a club legend.

Good things happen to those who have patience and wait for their opportunity instead of trying to force their way into the team by acting like an entitled brat.

Balogun will get his chance in due time just like Saka and ESR did. If he does not have the heart to be patient, then he should be allowed to leave. He cannot cry and moan his way into the team.

 

[topspin]

Not just Spurs and Man United, the likes of Milan, Leicester, Ajax, Roma, Napoli, Benfica, Leverkusen and Villarreal will all be tough to overcome.

Arsenal have a very slight chance of winning it and will need to play out of their skins and have some considerable luck as well.

It would be hilarious if Emery knocks Arteta out. Villarreal is a solid team and Emery is king of Europa. It would be some redemption and revenge for Emery.

Won't be easy to overcome these teams but I feel Arsenal will start as favourites against any one of them.

 

[Mamoon]

For the time in many years, I am looking forward to next season with some degree of optimism.

If Arsenal can sell Willian and Lacazette and sign Odegaard permanently or at least keep him on loan for another season, the quartet of Odegaard, Saka, ESR and Martinelli can do something special.

Willian and Lacazette have to leave. Pepe will not have much resale value, at least relative to the inflated price at which he was bought, and he has also shown good signs recently.

However, he is far too inconsistency and unreliable to be a regular starter, which is why extending Odegaard’s stay is also very important because he has technical ability to be decisive from the flanks.

Lacazette works hard and doesn’t look too bad in a slightly deeper role but he is slow, lethargic, not prolific enough and his attitude/goofy relationship with Aubameyang puts me off.

There is too much clownery when these two are together.

 

[Hasan123]

For the time in many years, I am looking forward to next season with some degree of optimism.

If Arsenal can sell Willian and Lacazette and sign Odegaard permanently or at least keep him on loan for another season, the quartet of Odegaard, Saka, ESR and Martinelli can do something special.

Willian and Lacazette have to leave. Pepe will not have much resale value, at least relative to the inflated price at which he was bought, and he has also shown good signs recently.

However, he is far too inconsistency and unreliable to be a regular starter, which is why extending Odegaard’s stay is also very important because he has technical ability to be decisive from the flanks.

Lacazette works hard and doesn’t look too bad in a slightly deeper role but he is slow, lethargic, not prolific enough and his attitude/goofy relationship with Aubameyang puts me off.

There is too much clownery when these two are together.

Lacazette is available for transfer according to some reports yesterday, he has 1 year left on his contract and has not been offered a new deal. I think he will be allowed to leave in the summer.

Willian has 2 years left on his contract, he has performed poorly this season. I'm not sure who will take him at the age of 33. I think we will be stuck with him and eventually will have to pay him off like we did with Ozil,Mustafi, and Sokratis.

Odegaard has started well. But I want to wait until the end of the season before saying we should keep him further. A lot will depend on what plans Real Madrid have for him if we want to keep him.

 

[IMMY69]

This thread is polluted

 

[Mamoon]

Lacazette is available for transfer according to some reports yesterday, he has 1 year left on his contract and has not been offered a new deal. I think he will be allowed to leave in the summer.

Willian has 2 years left on his contract, he has performed poorly this season. I'm not sure who will take him at the age of 33. I think we will be stuck with him and eventually will have to pay him off like we did with Ozil,Mustafi, and Sokratis.

Odegaard has started well. But I want to wait until the end of the season before saying we should keep him further. A lot will depend on what plans Real Madrid have for him if we want to keep him.

The skepticism among Arsenal fans regarding Odegaard is largely due to the fact that they get the impression that he is a Real Madrid outcast who cannot cut it in their first-team. If he was bought for 30-40 million from some small club there would be a lot of excitement and hype surrounding him.

He is actually an excellent player and a better footballer than Pepe. He is intelligent and technically gifted, and played really well for Sociedad and Vitesse in the Dutch league.

If he gets proper exposure and playing time, he has the potential to become a one of the best players in the world in his position in a few year’s time.

If Arsenal has an opportunity to sign him permanently they should immediately do it. They will live to regret it down the line.

 

[hitthestump]

Willian isn't going anywhere. He could have stayed on with Chelsea for another year but he took the offer of 3 years at Arsenal for a reason. His family are settled in London and do not want to leave, ala Cech a couple of years ago. Get used to him because Willian will be seeing out his very generous contract regardless of his playtime.

 

[Mamoon]

Willian isn't going anywhere. He could have stayed on with Chelsea for another year but he took the offer of 3 years at Arsenal for a reason. His family are settled in London and do not want to leave, ala Cech a couple of years ago. Get used to him because Willian will be seeing out his very generous contract regardless of his playtime.

True. He joined Arsenal for the same reasons. He just wants to collect his paycheck and live in London. He doesn’t care how he performs and whether Arsenal wins or not.

He should either be banished from the squad ala Ozil, get offered to West Ham and Crystal Palace or simply be get his contract cancelled but there is no way he should be on the pitch in Arsenal’s colors next season.

 

[PetroDollars]

This thread is polluted

This is a guy who thinks I was bad for thinking sterling would flop in 2015 while he though sterling was going to be the Messi

Now his backing of Arteta must be the biggest joke of footballing history, surly surpasses his own record of buffoonery of backing modi.

 

[Mamoon]

This is a guy who thinks I was bad for thinking sterling would flop in 2015 while he though sterling was going to be the Messi

Now his backing of Arteta must be the biggest joke of footballing history, surly surpasses his own record of buffoonery of backing modi.

Lol, don’t resort to exaggerations to cover up your embarrassment. I never said Sterling is going to be Messi.

Messi is the greatest of all time, no one is close to him, let alone Sterling, who is leagues and leagues below him.

Your argument was that Sterling would flop at City and that Depay is better than him. I rubbished your assessment because it obvious by 2015 that Sterling was a great talent and much better than Depay.

6 years later, we can all see who was right and whose delusional claims backfired in spectacular fashion.