Squad analysis EPL 2018-19: Arsenal
Arsenal would like to put their dismal performances, in recent Premier League seasons, behind when they start the campaign under new manager Unai Emery. Arsenal have missed out on top four finish in the last two seasons and Emery would like to set this record straight. Arsenal have made some key signings under Emery this summer. Here we analyze the Arsenal squad.
Arsenal could be the surprise package
The Gunners could make some valuable strides this season and the squad looks stronger than before. The team has a nice blend of youth and experience and one will see potency in attack under Emery, who is also organized at the back.
Analysis of attack in Arsenal ranks
The two main forces at the club in attack are Alexandre Lacazette and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. Aubameyang joined the club in January and impressed in the latter stages. One can expect him to score aplenty alongside Frenchman Lacazette. Alex Iwobi and Danny Welbeck are valuable players. Mesut Ozil and Henrikh Mkhitaryan provide the finesse and will be crucial in creating chances.
Aubameyang brings plenty at the table
Aubameyang is Arsenal's main weapon as far their attack is concerned. His all-round capabilities and the knack of scoring goals is a blessing for the Gunners. This season could define both the former Dortmund hero and Arsenal in terms of carrying out results.
Vital additions give strength to mid-field
The addition of Uruguayan international Lucas Torreira was sound business. The defensive mid-fielder will challenge Granit Xhaka for a place. Then there is the ever present Aaron Ramsey, who holds the key in linking up the mid-field with attack. Matteo Guendouzi was bought from FC Lorient and could make an impact. Mohamed Elneny and Ainsley Maitland-Niles make the bench look strong.
Ramsey is crucial for Arsenal's chances
Ramsey will need to be fit for majority of the season if Arsenal need to challenge other sides. He is strong in possession and has the capability of scoring goals as well. He scored 11 goals in 30 appearances across all competitions last term.
Arsenal have depth in defense
With skipper Laurent Koscielny and Sead Kolasinac facing injury woes, Arsenal need the others to step in. Nacho Monreal is the ideal choice at left-back. New addition Stephen Lichtsteiner will vie for a place at right-back with Hector Bellerin. In central defense, Arsenal have Rob Holding, Shkodran Mustafi and Sokratis Papastathopoulos. Youngsters Krystian Bielik and Konstantinos Mavropanos will lend support when called upon.
Bellerin is their go to man in defense
Hector Bellerin holds the key for Arsenal. The Spaniard is sound while tracking back and puts in a shift going forward as well. He has become a trusted asset at the club and played 47 matches last season across all competitions.
Leno, Cech to battle it out for goal-keeping position
Arsenal bought Bernd Leno to provide a challenge to regular keeper Petr Cech. It remains to be seen who gets preference on goal in the league between the two. Third choice David Ospina will most likely leave the club, with Turkish side Besiktas the favorites to land him. Argentina's Emiliano Martinez will need to be ready when called upon.