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When Liverpool played at the Emirates in October 2022, Arsenal had something to prove. Despite winning seven out of their first eight games, their victories were all predictable except for the successful derby against Spurs. They needed a significant turning point to demonstrate that they were a team capable of advancing to the next level and competing at the top. This came in the form of an exciting and well-played five-goal match, where Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli were the stars of the show.
It would benefit Arsenal to make a similar declaration at this time. Liverpool will be back in north London on Sunday and while winning the FA Cup may not be Arteta’s main focus, it presents a chance to revive a struggling season. It is also an opportunity to strike before this meeting of top teams is repeated in a Premier League match next month.
Cup football offers a palate cleanser: a little scope to think more freshly and, perhaps, cast off some mental shackles in front of a more carefree home crowd. After three defeats in five, anything that can spark belief anew will be grasped willingly.
In recent months, it seems that Arsenal’s opponents have adjusted their tactics. The common belief that attacking Arsenal would reveal their weaknesses is no longer prevalent, except among their direct rivals. Instead, teams have been content to defend and challenge Arsenal in a different way: can they break through the defense and avoid falling victim to a surprise attack?
They were unable to answer either puzzle in unproductive performances against Fulham and, in a match where they controlled the game but lacked a decisive touch, West Ham.
“In light of our performance last season and the current season, other teams are closely studying us,” Martin Ødegaard comments. “They are attempting to hinder our ability to utilize our strong points. Have they been playing more defensively? It appears so. In my initial season and even at the beginning of last season, our matches were more fluid as opposing teams were eager to come and attack us with high pressure.”
Ødegaard and his fellow creators must possess the skills of a lockpicker. Ever since Declan Rice joined, Arsenal has appeared more stable, but they have not reached the same level of daring excitement as last year. At times, such as in their close victories against Brentford and Luton, they have saved lackluster performances with sheer determination and quality. However, in games like at Craven Cottage, it is clear that they rely too heavily on a fatigued Saka and a struggling Martinelli. Perhaps they should consider bolder options when their dynamic wingers are being neutralized.
Ødegaard states that in the face of more conservative opposition tactics, the team must locate new areas on the field and perform at a high level in order to overcome it. He enjoys the mental aspect of adapting to the opposing team’s strategies and finding ways to exploit their defense. It is a stimulating challenge that requires careful analysis of the game and identifying opportunities to be a threat while maintaining a level of danger.
In times of struggle, Arsenal’s Ødegaard may be pushed too far back, causing their possession to lack effectiveness. During a recent interview, Mikel Arteta was questioned about the value of incorporating diversity when their usual tactics are not yielding results. He stated, “It is crucial because it adds an element of unpredictability. This benefits us and challenges the opponent as they must dedicate more time to strategizing.”
During his time as manager, Arsenal faced criticism for prioritizing methodical gameplay over bold, unconventional tactics. Arteta emphasizes the importance of control, but there is a risk that his efforts to avoid chaos may lead to a regression. He openly acknowledged the impact of early injuries to Jurriën Timber and persistent issues with Thomas Partey, which disrupted his plans for the season. These setbacks have made it challenging for Arsenal to execute their original strategy of versatility and unpredictability in their style of play.
The actions and negotiations in January could potentially address the issue: it is possible that Arsenal will find a forward who can provide precise finishing to complement the effort and energy of Gabriel Jesus; there is a chance that high-quality backup will finally be recruited for the wide positions; as Ødegaard’s performance has been lacking, it may be necessary to bring in additional support behind the striker.
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“We’ve set the bar high,” Ødegaard says. “We’ve set high standards from what we’ve done in the last 18 months. I want people to expect us to be at the top. That’s where we want to be, that’s what we expect of ourselves as well.”
Supporters of the team on Sunday will be looking for proof that their expectations can still be fulfilled, despite Liverpool missing Mohamed Salah and having a League Cup semi-final against Fulham on Wednesday.
At the beginning of the game, spectators will notice a noticeable change in Arsenal’s appearance: they will be sporting an all-white uniform, a first for a home game this season. This is part of the No More Red campaign, which aims to protect young people from knife crime and other forms of violence. The message is crucial and its presentation is one-of-a-kind. Arsenal may be hoping that this game marks a fresh start for their season.
“I am pleased with the current circumstances and I have confidence that we will continue to improve,” Ødegaard states. Drawing on the same mindset from 15 months ago could benefit our efforts.
Source: theguardian.com
