Giroud had his critics, but I'd bet that Aaron Ramsey wasn't among them. OG created a lot of his chances.
Also Wilshere. Giroud was instrumental in the build-up to THAT Wilshere team goal
Giroud was a bit of a donkey in his first season to be fair
Aw "Poo-Poo"
I like odegaard but he needs to get mean, he needs to get angry. Someone throw a wrench at him
He would catch it and pass it back to you 😉
Might look different when not cropped but looks like an early pass would’ve put him through
Giroud was a bit of a donkey in his first season to be fair
Giroud also improved his overall game in order to adapt to the challenges of the PL. Vik is shrinking and hiding.
Giroud was a bit of a donkey in his first season to be fair
Giroud also improved his overall game in order to adapt to the challenges of the PL. Vik is shrinking and hiding.
Oh that drought was very real. But his ability as let’s call it a playmaking CF was very real. Both things can be true.
In this team, a Giroud level striker would be fucking awesome to have. As some of you may have noticed a few thousand times I had serious doubts about Vik but I still hoped that he could become something like that. He’s not.
When are we buying Yildiz?
Romanticising giroud a bit
The cunt went fucking AWOL in the 15-16 title run. He had his fair share of games where he shit the bed in front of goal
Oh that drought was very real. But his ability as let’s call it a playmaking CF was very real. Both things can be true.
Aye, Noni especially. Dude can run at defences, and his confidence should have been high after scoring the worldie in midweek.
The Benny Blanco injury fucked up our sub plans...
The new Zubimendi chant is pretty awesome.
Evening FC, maybe a tad, but he was a winner, and in those winning teams for a reason and it wasn't his hair! I would take him in a heartbeat right now, if we had a time machine.
Oh yes definitely would welcome him in the team in a heartbeat. He's even tailor-made for our side with how much we bank on set pieces and crosses.
I'm forgetting, Ode is left or right-footed?
Øde is a leftie.
I've often wondered why he hasn't tried Odegaard on the left of midfield. Him and Saka on the same side both want to come in on their left. Stick him on the left and have him cutting into the half spa...
I'm forgetting, Ode is left or right-footed?
Romanticising giroud a bit
The cunt went fucking AWOL in the 15-16 title run. He had his fair share of games where he shit the bed in front of goal
Giroud had his critics, but I'd bet that Aaron Ramsey wasn't among them. OG created a lot of his chances.
He very well may have been a perfect fit for this team (except maybe the pressing part). But the aerial presence and ability to be a back to goal focal point to play others into the game.
Giroud’s teams back then just needed a potent scorer as we did not really struggle to open teams up. So he definitely came under fire for his finishing struggles.
Vieira was pure quality and had a hard edge which made him the complete midfielder
I also liked Robert Pires didn't have Vierias tool kit but was effective after struggling at first
When we had Vieira and Petit both in midfield, it was like our opponents had to get past a couple of French nightclub bouncers if they wanted to launch an attack.
He can do what Palmer does in terms of assisting (not scoring yet)but doesn't do it enough. He tends to drift constantly towards the right tries do the one two with Saka and Timber with mixed results....
Vieira was pure quality and had a hard edge which made him the complete midfielder
I also liked Robert Pires didn't have Vierias tool kit but was effective after struggling at first
CF position is primarily judged by goals of course but Giroud for me is one of the best back to goal facilitators, passers and team combo build up strikers that has ever lived.
Giroud had his critics, but I'd bet that Aaron Ramsey wasn't among them. OG created a lot of his chances.
He can do what Palmer does in terms of assisting (not scoring yet)but doesn't do it enough. He tends to drift constantly towards the right tries do the one two with Saka and Timber with mixed results....
I've often wondered why he hasn't tried Odegaard on the left of midfield. Him and Saka on the same side both want to come in on their left. Stick him on the left and have him cutting into the half space on his left and Tross cutting in towards goal on his right. Vary the angles the defence have to deal with
I like odegaard but he needs to get mean, he needs to get angry. Someone throw a wrench at him
Because he is overrated and can't do what Palmer does.
On the other hand, I was excited to see Eze play in that 10 role but he's been fairly underwhelming as well, so who knows. Maybe it's the system...
He can do what Palmer does in terms of assisting (not scoring yet)but doesn't do it enough. He tends to drift constantly towards the right tries do the one two with Saka and Timber with mixed results. Eze tried to do that yesterday but didn't work. Eze attacks from the left , Odegaard from the right. Move Rice to the right of midfield and let Ode go to the left. Rice is wasted as as he is not a dribbler like Vieira was when he used to drift past opponents.
You can't use the word overrated in the same sentence as Palmer and not apply it to Palmer
I missed to complete the point in the last post but here goes. I think Odegaard's press, work rate and help build the tempo is good but ultimately he is here to fashion and create chances for other at...
Because he is overrated and can't do what Palmer does.
On the other hand, I was excited to see Eze play in that 10 role but he's been fairly underwhelming as well, so who knows. Maybe it's the system.
Havertz could be out new version of OG. I am not sure Gyok will be but he needs more time.
He doesn’t have that crazy one touch passing that Giroud had- can’t think of too many CFs who had that. But we don’t play that way anyway. But yeah Kai is definitely in that facilitator mold.
He was just a unique guy. Certainly not a traditional striker but not a false 9 midfielder come striker either. A big guy with wonderful feet, technique and feel for the game but lacked that elite lev...
Havertz could be out new version of OG. I am not sure Gyok will be but he needs more time.
Funny how well I think a giroud would fit into this team. Hed have to press though
He was just a unique guy. Certainly not a traditional striker but not a false 9 midfielder come striker either. A big guy with wonderful feet, technique and feel for the game but lacked that elite level finishing. Having said that his highlight reel is full of bangers.
CF position is primarily judged by goals of course but Giroud for me is one of the best back to goal facilitators, passers and team combo build up strikers that has ever lived.
Funny how well I think a giroud would fit into this team. Hed have to press though
CF position is primarily judged by goals of course but Giroud for me is one of the best back to goal facilitators, passers and team combo build up strikers that has ever lived.
I missed to complete the point in the last post but here goes. I think Odegaard's press, work rate and help build the tempo is good but ultimately he is here to fashion and create chances for other attackers and win us games. You don't want your best creative players huffing and puffing defensively. If the work rate and pressing is the main thing we notice more about Odegaard rather than his attacking qualities, that is on Arteta not really using him well. I don't want Odegaard dropping deep to help build up play unless we have no other options. Isn't that the reason we shelled out £60M on Zubimendi?
Odegaard should be closer to the opposition box and given full freedom to attack instead of dropping deep constantly. Absolute waste of his abilities . I know Cole Palmer can drift out of games at times and be anonymous but he is a matchwinner for them with decisive passes and goals. Why can't we have Odegaard play in the same role?
Evening db10. I see your point but maybe it's a little too hyperbolic?
The titles HFB won were really due to the quality of his teammates, and in small part due to the way his strong attributes mixed...
Evening FC, maybe a tad, but he was a winner, and in those winning teams for a reason and it wasn't his hair! I would take him in a heartbeat right now, if we had a time machine.
Underwhelmed but I think Arteta is right with Gyokeres- it takes two to tango. We don’t spot his runs and eventually he doesn’t make them or finish them because it feels like wasted effort. Stuff like...
Great example. Odegaard best fucking up his game sharpish. I'm with Mr. Pigeon English, there. Just pass de ball.
Gyok is no Giroud. Giroud is France's all time top scorer, he's won or been a key part of a teams that have won the World Cup, European Championships, Champions League, Europa League and FA Cup, Ligue...
Evening db10. I see your point but maybe it's a little too hyperbolic?
The titles HFB won were really due to the quality of his teammates, and in small part due to the way his strong attributes mixed with them. The ligue 1 win with Montpellier and his stint there is probably the only part of his top flight career where you could say he was the fulcrum of the team but same can be said about Gyok and the two league wins in Portugal.
DCL score for dirty Leeds 1-1
As for Gyok, I was very underwhelmed when we signed him. Just felt like the fans were clamoring for "lots of goals," ignoring the fact that he's banging them in the Portuguese league.
It's still too early to write him off, but I would be very surprised at this point if we ever get from him a quarter of the original expectations/buildup.
He wanted to give them a chance to sort it out themselves and build some confidence. The easiest thing he could have done is yanked Gyok immediately for Merino but that would have crushed his confiden...
Foggin eStandards innit. I'd have probably pulled four or five off after that abysmal shite. But hey that's why I am not paid the big bucks. ;-) Anyway let's see what happens next week up at Everton's new home. Getting three points there will not be a piece of cake.
I said after the Villa game that I was worried. This spell feels like those patches of games in past seasons when the team looked jaded, out of ideas, mechanical, devoid of spark, energy, bland. Instead of hitting the next level after Bayern, we just regressed. All the while, City look like they're going from strength to strength, energized, and even evolving as the season progresses.
I expect us to have a Dubai-recharge moment this season, but I fear it will take too long until we get there.
Mikel needs to fix this and fast because this team needs to perform a lot better.
Positive side is that we're still top of the league, but if I'm a City fan, I'm feeling pretty confident right now.
I was really quite surprised that Arteta didn't make any changes at HT. That first half was absolutely dreadful and we've seen more than a few poor first half's this season.
He wanted to give them a chance to sort it out themselves and build some confidence. The easiest thing he could have done is yanked Gyok immediately for Merino but that would have crushed his confidence.
I was really quite surprised that Arteta didn't make any changes at HT. That first half was absolutely dreadful and we've seen more than a few poor first half's this season.
I was surprised that neither Noni or Nwaneri didn't make the pitch
Aye, Noni especially. Dude can run at defences, and his confidence should have been high after scoring the worldie in midweek.
I'm not sure about the cut losses part yet, but he definitely suffers when compared with Giroud, the recent good striker we've had that is most similar.
Giroud could be streaky and miss some easy chan...
Gyok is no Giroud. Giroud is France's all time top scorer, he's won or been a key part of a teams that have won the World Cup, European Championships, Champions League, Europa League and FA Cup, Ligue 1 and a Serie A titles. He's a winner. He got a lot of stick from many but he is up there with the best. If Gyok does 10-15% of what HFB did we'd probably be happy.
The focus should be on how we deal with a team that parks the bus, especially at home. This is how teams will play against us for the rest of the season, barring a couple of exceptions. On the upside,...
I was surprised that neither Noni or Nwaneri didn't make the pitch
He should definitely change how we attack, regardless of Gyok, especially against low-block kryptonite.
Think the club needs to cut it's losses now with Gyok tbh. Looks to be very limited upside.
One thing I'm genuinely surprised by is for a striker with so many goals, he really lacks predatory instinc...
I'm not sure about the cut losses part yet, but he definitely suffers when compared with Giroud, the recent good striker we've had that is most similar.
Giroud could be streaky and miss some easy chances. But he was fantastic at holding the ball up (both for us and France), had a great touch, and knew what runs to make when. I see almost none of that with Gyok.
Martinelli at times can seem largely useless…
Until you pass him the ball when he running in behind clean through and scoring. One doesn’t happen without the other.
The focus should be on how we deal with a team that parks the bus, especially at home. This is how teams will play against us for the rest of the season, barring a couple of exceptions. On the upside, with more possession we get more corners and that has been an area we have definitely improved upon.
Personally, I'd liked to have seen Noni get a game yesterday, he was on fire midweek, he's another attacking outlet that is willing to take defenders on, draws defenders and creates space behind. The midfield needs to do more to play the ball into Gyok's feet, he needs time to gel with his new team and how to succeed with the slow, horseshoe ball of death, that is unless Arteta is willing to change the we we play.
I'm not going to write Gyok off, but I'm disappointed in his all round play, its hard to know what his strengths are, for me his reading of the game is piss poor, caught on his heels frequently, not d...
Underwhelmed but I think Arteta is right with Gyokeres- it takes two to tango. We don’t spot his runs and eventually he doesn’t make them or finish them because it feels like wasted effort. Stuff like this…
https://www.reddit.com/r/ArsenalFC/s/OXi2M…Arse
Well in NB.
Oh well, we were shit but we won. Spuds losing 3-0. Lovely. Foden is back and Haaland is Haaland. I was hoping Gyok would our version, but we don't play to his strengths.
I'm not going to write Gyok off, but I'm disappointed in his all round play, its hard to know what his strengths are, for me his reading of the game is piss poor, caught on his heels frequently, not dominant in the air holdup and link play mediocre at best.
Some adaptation from the team and him is still required, he had no pre season and has been injured, time will tell if Arteta can improve him, Havertz and Jesus will be welcomed additions when fully fit,
Think the club needs to cut it's losses now with Gyok tbh. Looks to be very limited upside.
One thing I'm genuinely surprised by is for a striker with so many goals, he really lacks predatory instinc...
Can’t say I’m not underwhelmed but we still haven’t built very many relationships around the pitch yet. That was always the biggest hurdle. The guys that to a degree are excelling but there are big gaps of understanding in key areas. We’ve only seen glimpses so far this season.
Can't do it midway through the season without a backup given we may end up rinsing Havertz and Jesus to avoid playing Gyokeres. Maybe what Arteta should do is change the way we attack. Instead of horseshoe passing or "Give it to Saka or spam crosses " tactic, maybe we should use our attacking midfielders and wingers better. Odegaard's pressing is great
I have been complaining about this from last season on these pages but why do we need all our attacking wingers and strikers to help us drop deep and defend? I can understand if we are boxed into our own half by a top quality team but this was bloody Wolves FFS.
He's behind Mateta for the striker spot at Palace. He looked lively when he came on today, also looks to have filled out a bit. He's never going to be a top Premier League striker, but he'll have a de...
and to be fair Mateta would be first choice for a lot of teams, us included.
Think the club needs to cut it's losses now with Gyok tbh. Looks to be very limited upside.
One thing I'm genuinely surprised by is for a striker with so many goals, he really lacks predatory instinct in the box. Repeatedly caught on his heels when he should be attacking the ball
Wharton willing to try all sort of attacking passes while Zubimendi for some reason has just gone back to circulating the ball. How much of this is due to the coaching?
I still think Gykoreres will make some more very important contributions this season
Havertz is going to be the striker we get in January.
We will end up overplaying and rinsing him because we are not able to get a tune out of Gyokeres.... Not sure how long Gabi Jesus will last (***hope I am desperately wrong here***)
So we’re no better than last season when it comes to scoring in tight games. I never thought Gyökeres would be such a weight. It’s not gonna happen with him. The pressure won’t help. Can we get anothe...
Havertz is going to be the striker we get in January.
Even the spuds ladies team have the spursy DNA.
I'm pretty sure Havertz will be first choice when he comes back.
So we’re no better than last season when it comes to scoring in tight games. I never thought Gyökeres would be such a weight. It’s not gonna happen with him. The pressure won’t help. Can we get another striker in January?
We've got so little margin for error in the league. Arteta would get stick if he brought in a couple of Academy lads and something went wrong. Seems like we're dealing with a couple main issues right ...
The problem here is that Gyok and the entire team struggle so much just score the 1st goal. Gyokeres looks lightweight and clumsy apart from poor technical ability to really bully defenders. Our players also don't make quick passes for him. The chance that Saka created is something that probably doesn't even get practiced sufficiently enough in training. Same with Rice's cross in the last game vs Brugge (Or maybe it was vs Brentford or Villa) that he was not able to anticipate.
Guardiola probably ensures that cutbacks from the winger or fullback to the box are sufficiently done in training so that it is easily implemented in actual matches.
We've got so little margin for error in the league. Arteta would get stick if he brought in a couple of Academy lads and something went wrong. Seems like we're dealing with a couple main issues right ...
I'm pretty sure Havertz will be first choice when he comes back.
We've got so little margin for error in the league. Arteta would get stick if he brought in a couple of Academy lads and something went wrong. Seems like we're dealing with a couple main issues right now: 1. Defensive injuries (plus Cala suspension yesterday). We got one back, and immediately lost one. This is a problem in multiple ways as we've not been able to play the same unit much in the last month and a half. Just as with attack, defense works better if they are used to each other. 2. Gyok -- yesterday was exactly the type of match we bought him for, and bar one or two chances in the second half, it didn't look good. At this point, Jesus or Havertz should get minutes until Gyok can show he deserves them. 3. The attack more broadly - I don't think we, or Arteta have any idea what the best attacking lineup is with so many choices. Based on performances in the PL, it's Saka and Trossard then ??. This won't get any easier with Havertz back.
I am not a big fan of Nketiah but will always look back gratefully at what did for us especially in the 2022-2023 title charge. But he has not been good at all for Palace, has he?
Looking at his sta...
He's behind Mateta for the striker spot at Palace. He looked lively when he came on today, also looks to have filled out a bit. He's never going to be a top Premier League striker, but he'll have a decent career at upper Championship level I'd say.
I am not a big fan of Nketiah but will always look back gratefully at what did for us especially in the 2022-2023 title charge. But he has not been good at all for Palace, has he?
Looking at his stats, 11 goals in 51 games isn't great and I don't think he is their first choice striker either.
Right, it is -14c here today, but the Bernese is letting me know that she wants to go outside. Laters all.
Enjoy!
Right, it is -14c here today, but the Bernese is letting me know that she wants to go outside. Laters all.
Bring on a kid from the academy for a change. Is there nobody decent enough to try and help out the squad?
You really wanna do that? You can see why MLS’s minutes have been limited. He’s a bit all over the place with his positioning.
Not trying to make excuses but injuries have been crazy- most of them not due to being overplayed and we’ve been very cautious bringing people back after recovery.
Quite a few spectacular own goals this weekend.
Bring on a kid from the academy for a change. Is there nobody decent enough to try and help out the squad?
Salmon did ok at Right back didn't he?
With Gabriel, Mosquera, Calafiori out who else could play right back other than one of Timber/White?
Deeper squad means nothing if Arteta continues to rinse Saka, Rice, Zubimendi, Timber and other key players without rotating. Norgaard has barely been used. Yesterday we could have tried Madueke to st...
Aye. Timber and Rice in the dreaded red zone but Arteta ain't resting them against the likes of Wolves, he never will until they finally break
With White the only option was to play Timber at RB when he’s in the red zone as well.
Bring on a kid from the academy for a change. Is there nobody decent enough to try and help out the squad?
Deeper squad means nothing if Arteta continues to rinse Saka, Rice, Zubimendi, Timber and other key players without rotating. Norgaard has barely been used. Yesterday we could have tried Madueke to st...
With White the only option was to play Timber at RB when he’s in the red zone as well.
We have a deeper squad this time around and I think it will be the difference
Deeper squad means nothing if Arteta continues to rinse Saka, Rice, Zubimendi, Timber and other key players without rotating. Norgaard has barely been used. Yesterday we could have tried Madueke to start and then brought on Saka later. Same with Norgaard and Rice.
Playing Ben White was such a poor decision in load management by Arteta and his staff, He has been out injured so long so playing him continuously in 3 games for almost the full 90 mins was bound to catch up. The same thing is going to happen with Timber.
I'll feel a lot better when Big Gabi is back. He makes a difference at both ends of the pitch
Oh, definitely!
We do, but the manager still only wants to play the same players into the ground.
That's true 😭
We have a deeper squad this time around and I think it will be the difference
We do, but the manager still only wants to play the same players into the ground.
Yup. I was saying if we are behind City after next weekend, that means we didn’t win against Everton which I definitely don’t want. Rather be ahead of them since we have to play against them away.
Ah, you're right..
We have a deeper squad this time around and I think it will be the difference
If we go back to being a defensive fortress and City lose their way at some point. Otherwise its 2nd again
We are five points ahead. After today's win for 115 they're 2 points behind. When they play before us next week and if they win, they would be 1 point ahead. If we win we'd be back 2 points ahead.
Yup. I was saying if we are behind City after next weekend, that means we didn’t win against Everton which I definitely don’t want. Rather be ahead of them since we have to play against them away.
We have a deeper squad this time around and I think it will be the difference
I'll feel a lot better when Big Gabi is back. He makes a difference at both ends of the pitch
Haha fair fucks Sunderland. Stick it up those barcodes
We were chasing last season. We've tried both, doesn't make any difference
We have a deeper squad this time around and I think it will be the difference
Could be without Ndiaye, Dewsbury Hall and Grealish.
Honestly they're a very standard basic Moyes team. Should go there very confident.
*giggles
Perhaps it's better to be the chasing team than the team being chased? Probably less stressful for our lads, no?
We were chasing last season. We've tried both, doesn't make any difference
Well if we are chasing after next weekend, we would have dropped points to Everton.
We are five points ahead. After today's win for 115 they're 2 points behind. When they play before us next week and if they win, they would be 1 point ahead. If we win we'd be back 2 points ahead.
Some of their players are at AFCON. So we should be lucky that we are not facing Ndiaye who is away at AFCON
Could be without Ndiaye, Dewsbury Hall and Grealish.
Honestly they're a very standard basic Moyes team. Should go there very confident.
Some of their players are at AFCON. So we should be lucky that we are not facing Ndiaye who is away at AFCON
any C115 players going defcon?
Have to give Sunderland credit, they've been holding their own in the Prem really well
Sunderland and Arsenal only two undefeated teams at home let’s not forget
I don't think we platform Saka well at all. Too often by the time ball is passed to Saka, he is not very close to the opposition box. By the time he gets the ball, he is surrounded by 2-3 defenders,,,...
Fair point m, but to play devil's advocate here, he also has a tendency to slow things up when 1 on 1 with a fullback until help arrives, doesn't take advantage of the space he finds himself in always.
Tough game at Everton for us
Some of their players are at AFCON. So we should be lucky that we are not facing Ndiaye who is away at AFCON
Have to give Sunderland credit, they've been holding their own in the Prem really well
Stadium of "Fight" ...apparently
As long as we're within striking distance in May. We've got the tough ones out of the way, Anfield, Old Toilet, St. James..
Perhaps it's better to be the chasing team than the team being chased? Probably less stressful for our lads, no?
Well if we are chasing after next weekend, we would have dropped points to Everton.
As you were then, at the top.
Yeah we stuttered against wolves, but 3 pts is the target even if nerves are on edge.
We have Rice, Saka, Madueke, and to a lesser extent Nelli who run at defenders.
I don't think we platform Saka well at all. Too often by the time ball is passed to Saka, he is not very close to the opposition box. By the time he gets the ball, he is surrounded by 2-3 defenders,,,, He is not Messi to manage that situation alone.
Perhaps it's better to be the chasing team than the team being chased? Probably less stressful for our lads, no?
I would agree with that
They play before us, so we could be second when we play.
Perhaps it's better to be the chasing team than the team being chased? Probably less stressful for our lads, no?
Mikel probably doesn't trust Nwaneri as a game changing option unless he has no other choice. From what I remember of last season, we played him as we didn't have a lot of options. He was often brough...
He’s still massively young and raw. Mikel is himself on edge to stick with what he knows
They play before us, so we could be second when we play.
Tough game at Everton for us
C115eh 3-0
They have West Ham at home next week so 3 points there
They play before us, so we could be second when we play.
Look at how City are willing to run at the defence. The only time we get that opportunity is when Rice manages to win the ball. Their technical ability in all areas of the pitch is pretty good. The wa...
As you were then, at the top.
Yeah we stuttered against wolves, but 3 pts is the target even if nerves are on edge.
We have Rice, Saka, Madueke, and to a lesser extent Nelli who run at defenders.
Nwaneri not getting off the bench felt like a mistake. His attacking intent and graft are exactly what that game was calling out for... desperately
Mikel probably doesn't trust Nwaneri as a game changing option unless he has no other choice. From what I remember of last season, we played him as we didn't have a lot of options. He was often brought in games when it was done and dusted (City game) or against weaker opposition or when we had no other option.
is he spitting venom... or whatever that shit is
Bile
C115eh 3-0
They have West Ham at home next week so 3 points there
We need a speedy left winger to help us while counterattacking. Saka is not as quick as he used to be once.
I think Martinelli will be sold soon by next summer. Trossard will be in his final season. Maybe Madueke could be that winger or we will buy someone. The Premier League demands pace and power.
Nwaneri not getting off the bench felt like a mistake. His attacking intent and graft are exactly what that game was calling out for... desperately
This
That is good news, but Jesus looks well out of shape. He ducked out of heading home Saka's cross, luckily their defender didn't.
he dummied it ;p
Now Villa are winning now ffs
London, Manchester and Birmingham in the top 3.
Now Villa are winning now ffs
Morgan Rogers too good
At least we have Gabi Jesus as an option now, and hopefully Kai soon
That is good news, but Jesus looks well out of shape. He ducked out of heading home Saka's cross, luckily their defender didn't.
Now Villa are winning now ffs
Look at how City are willing to run at the defence. The only time we get that opportunity is when Rice manages to win the ball. Their technical ability in all areas of the pitch is pretty good. The way they platform their best attackers is quite impressive. I understand Gyokeres is limited technically and physically but do we even create those chances multiple times in a game? Liverpool and City in their title winning seasons have created multiple chances per game for their players to score. Their strikers do miss chances too but they also score. We don't create those multiple chances at all.
Arteta expecting Gyokeres to play like Havertz/Jesus is crazy. We should not be so rigid about principles that we need a striker to constantly drop deep to help create chances.
Arteta should implement some of the passing drills that used to happen during Wenger's reign. Get a coach to help out with attacking if required.
Finally, what is with this long throw nonsense tactic with Rice? We are not good at this. Stop this crap right away.
Arse
Well in NB.
Oh well, we were shit but we won. Spuds losing 3-0. Lovely. Foden is back and Haaland is Haaland. I was hoping Gyok would our version, but we don't play to his strengths.
At least we have Gabi Jesus as an option now, and hopefully Kai soon
Arse
Well in NB.
Oh well, we were shit but we won. Spuds losing 3-0. Lovely. Foden is back and Haaland is Haaland. I was hoping Gyok would our version, but we don't play to his strengths.
Thought Palace would do us a favour today 😕
The performance was good enough to get something out of this game for long stretches
Thought Palace would do us a favour today 😕
its only the halfway point....no worries
Bad mistake choosing to watch the City game.
I thought Palace might have been able to get something from the game . Clearly more in hope than anything else
we should pick up someone like Xacha to sit left of Zubi when needed
Thought Palace would do us a favour today 😕
So much for watching the Palace game….think I’ll watch the rest of the Sunderland match
Bad mistake choosing to watch the City game.
you would be assuming that Rice would be willing to sit in in front of our defense
we should pick up someone like Xacha to sit left of Zubi when needed
So much for watching the Palace game….think I’ll watch the rest of the Sunderland match
you would be assuming that Rice would be willing to sit in in front of our defense
I think Dec would be willing to play wherever Mikel asked him to
"What is the point of having a world class #6 like Rice and quality defenders if Arteta is unwilling to start both Eze and Odegaard in midfield in the #10 and #8 position at the same time?"
Ch...
you would be assuming that Rice would be willing to sit in in front of our defense
I fear both of us might be deluded
I know...
he just needs to tap in a rebound
Preferably 2
I fear both of us might be deluded
he just needs to tap in a rebound
I fear both of us might be deluded
"What is the point of having a world class #6 like Rice and quality defenders if Arteta is unwilling to start both Eze and Odegaard in midfield in the #10 and #8 position at the same time?"
Christ, we'd be cut to ribbons with 2 Theos in the centre of the park
Anyway, let's tank my mood even further by trying to make a golden syrup steamed pudding for the first time!
Have to say that watching us put 11 players behind the ball in the hope that we would not concede against 20th placed Wolves is extremely worrying that this team prefers to sit back rather than take c...
yes better game management in offensive third was needed
Sunderland are bullying the Geordies
I am here to see a Xhaka special.
Ethan IS a good fit if someone like Saliba is backing him
he doesnt press like Odegaard tho which is probably what Aterta wants
Ethan IS a good fit if someone like Saliba is backing him
Yeah I said yesterday I wouldn’t minded to see Ethan. He showed a lot of intent vs Brugge
Nwaneri not getting off the bench felt like a mistake. His attacking intent and graft are exactly what that game was calling out for... desperately
Ethan IS a good fit if someone like Saliba is backing him
Have to say that watching us put 11 players behind the ball in the hope that we would not concede against 20th placed Wolves is extremely worrying that this team prefers to sit back rather than take charge and try to dominate the opposition. It was horrific to watch.
We resorted to playing the horseshoe pattern passing game and our players constantly fed the ball to Saka in the hope that he could create something (which he did). But is this the best way to attack teams? Our attack is so predictable and ponderous that teams get enough team get back to double up on Saka and the other wingers. We have no counter attacking ability.
Eze constantly drifting to the right trying to play the Odegaard way of linking up (which is not great by the way). Any player in the #10 position needs to be flexible enough to run the attack through all areas of the pitch.
Have we stopped trying to play through balls? Everybody seems to want the ball at their feet and then barely anybody tries anything risky. Rice was the only player who tried some lofted balls which led to our first corner and he is not the best passer in our team.
What is the point of having a world class #6 like Rice and quality defenders if Arteta is unwilling to start both Eze and Odegaard in midfield in the #10 and #8 position at the same time?
Thomas Frank in the job centre by March
he is their best option
Baldiola being a cunt on the touchline. Standard.
is he spitting venom... or whatever that shit is
Baldiola being a cunt on the touchline. Standard.
Sunderland are bullying the Geordies
A midfield that can draw from Eze, Nwaneri or Ødegaard should not be struggling to create.
Nwaneri not getting off the bench felt like a mistake. His attacking intent and graft are exactly what that game was calling out for... desperately
Palace been the better team by some distance
Just not taking the chances
Watching City v Palace over the Tyne Wear derby is a poor decision
Never been a more obvious 'gonna be shit at a club with higher expectations' than Frank
School of Moyes
Palace been the better team by some distance
Fuckin hell Palace hit post to open the half
I am going to watch another game and hope that brings the luck Palace need.
Thomas Frank in the job centre by March
I would love nothing more to be wrong about Arteta.
Arse!
well in, NB!
sooo... we still haven't figured out how to deal with the low block then, hey? That was the lowest of low blocks.
low... bu...lock
https://youtu.be/BsrqKE1iqqo?&t=27Fuckin hell Palace hit post to open the half
Lanky German twat scores at the wrong end😂
Why do they have all these games at the same time. Especially the derby.
I don’t disagree that he has to win because the project is in danger of losing momentum if they don’t do it. I am not absolving Arteta of responsibility but the platform has been built and everything ...
And I think they will.
Arteta has to win the league, whether he wins it 1-0 every game or 6-4.
I don’t disagree that he has to win because the project is in danger of losing momentum if they don’t do it. I am not absolving Arteta of responsibility but the platform has been built and everything is there largely speaking.
If we win it this year it’s because the players rose to the occasion finally.
Lanky German twat scores at the wrong end😂
I recall us largely handling the brutish mid-low table sides that season. Something of a drought set in during the second half of the season but the squad was somewhat threadbare.
Arteta has to win the league, whether he wins it 1-0 every game or 6-4.
07/08 team is on par with this one in terms of offensive quality... a better watch and arguably more productive.
Most of the struggles that season were against good sides. We went half a season witho...
That team was far superior in attacking quality and they struggled against low blocks.
I just think it’s easy to say “well he should teach them how to beat a low block”. It’s fucking hard.
The 07/08 team who I genuinely think was one of the all time great attacking teams in league hist...
07/08 team is on par with this one in terms of offensive quality... a better watch and arguably more productive.
Most of the struggles that season were against good sides. We went half a season without Eduardo and van Persie.
I agree with a lot of what you're saying but I think it's fairly evident that he does not want his players playing line breaking passes or through balls unless the odds are heavily in their favour whi...
I just think it’s easy to say “well he should teach them how to beat a low block”. It’s fucking hard.
The 07/08 team who I genuinely think was one of the all time great attacking teams in league history struggled with it. And that was a team rife with creativity and risk taking.
I think by and large that you can take Arteta’s word at face value (except when talking about injuries and availability). So when he emphasizes players stepping forward to grab the game by the scruff ...
I agree with a lot of what you're saying but I think it's fairly evident that he does not want his players playing line breaking passes or through balls unless the odds are heavily in their favour which results in a lot of painful horse shoe ball.
Control is by far his #1 priority. His nations footballing ethos is built on the belief that the best way to prevent your opponent from hurting you is to ensure he sees as little of the ball as possible.
So if Arteta isn't telling the players to sit back after going ahead, then could he tell them to stop doing it?
He was. Screaming at them. Waving his arms to push up. I think this is the players.
Why did we we put Spuds to the sword in the NL derby and why did Eze score a hat trick inside the box? Did Arteta take the handbrake off that day?
Well it's panned out in front of Arteta's eyes rather frequently... same patterns when we had Partey. I eagerly await a solution.
I think by and large that you can take Arteta’s word at face value (except when talking about injuries and availability). So when he emphasizes players stepping forward to grab the game by the scruff and decide games that to me it’s clear he is disappointed in the lack of impetus and individual accountability. Thus why Trossard has been undroppable.
Not in a million years do I think he says all of you guys just go out there and pass it to Bukayo.
Cp expected goals .98
City .2
I actually like Haaland. Seems like a decent due that does not take himself too seriously (cept that humble stuff). He has every right to be an arrogant prick but seems to keep things light and have a laugh and realizes he plays football for a living.
The way I look at it is they were deferring to the one guy willing to take the responsibility and show the quality. That is a player mentality that they need to sort.
I don’t think Arteta is foolish ...
timber needs to stay out of victors way
The way I look at it is they were deferring to the one guy willing to take the responsibility and show the quality. That is a player mentality that they need to sort.
I don’t think Arteta is foolish ...
Well it's panned out in front of Arteta's eyes rather frequently... same patterns when we had Partey. I eagerly await a solution.
Nah, he was being coached hard from a young age. He didn't just materialise out of the ether.
You have to have a certain amount of natural ability to do what he does, you can't just be coached to produce this level of scoring otherwise the game would be awash with premium striking talent.
Palace should have been ahead by 2 goals, if they had converted the easy chances.
Palace just needs that little bit in final third
The entire midfield catered to the flanks. You actually think is a coincidence?
The way I look at it is they were deferring to the one guy willing to take the responsibility and show the quality. That is a player mentality that they need to sort.
I don’t think Arteta is foolish enough to tell his team to cross it everytime against a low block where one simple clearance can somebody clear through as our whole team was forward the whole game. I refuse to believe that yes
Palace should have been ahead by 2 goals, if they had converted the easy chances.
The entire midfield catered to the flanks. You actually think is a coincidence?
if everyone offensively plays zonal there is no need for the defense to move out of their positional shape
Our midfielders pass to Saka or Martinelli at their earliest convenience and then sprint up to the 18-yard box. There is an inordinate onus on our wingers to make shit happen. It's weird and it's definitely systemic to some extent.
Haaland is just a natural goalscorer.
Nah, he was being coached hard from a young age. He didn't just materialise out of the ether.
Take Eze yesterday. Arteta gave him the start in place of the fit again captain. That was the green light to go and express yourself as the #10. He was abject. Hardly moved outside a 10 foot radius.
The entire midfield catered to the flanks. You actually think is a coincidence?
Take Eze yesterday. Arteta gave him the start in place of the fit again captain. That was the green light to go and express yourself as the #10. He was abject. Hardly moved outside a 10 foot radius.
Haaland is just a natural goalscorer.
hes just a tall donk
must have bad BO ...nobody wants to stay near him
Haaland is just a natural goalscorer.
Don't think man city have won more than 3 in a row yet this season. Would be 4 wins in a row today if this sticks
C115h has a literal cheat code up front.
Imagine if we had an Alexis right now.
Saka shouldn't have to be moved into midfield.
saka should learn to use his chocolate foot better and come inside more frequently
His first touch of the match.....
9th touch, to be precise
C115h has a literal cheat code up front.
Saka shouldn't have to be moved into midfield.
More a case of just behind the forward, a bit like Bergkamp
Fucking Haaland is too good
Ffs the cave troll scores
they gave him space the ponytail prick
I would try Saka in central midfield behind Gyok or Merino with Madueke taking the left wing, Saka can go with either foot and might be worth a trial in a couple of "low risk" matches.
Saka shouldn't have to be moved into midfield.
His first touch of the match.....
I would try Saka in central midfield behind Gyok or Merino with Madueke taking the left wing, Saka can go with either foot and might be worth a trial in a couple of "low risk" matches.
Ffs the cave troll scores
So if Arteta isn't telling the players to sit back after going ahead, then could he tell them to stop doing it?
I am sure he ripped into them about that
So if Arteta isn't telling the players to sit back after going ahead, then could he tell them to stop doing it?
Who is doing this?! You're fabricating hostility towards Arteta at this rate.
That whole watch yesterday was about Arteta in here lol
You wanna blame Arteta for Eze’s last two outings go for it. I think that’s crazy.
I'd look at how central access has been an issue with multiple Arteta sides.
A midfield that can draw from Eze, Nwaneri or Ødegaard should not be struggling to create.
You wanna blame Arteta for Eze’s last two outings go for it. I think that’s crazy.
Now if you want to criticize Arteta for building a shit team that’s fair but everybody has been fawning over how great this team is
Who is doing this?! You're fabricating hostility towards Arteta at this rate.
We could learn how to play simple yet effective direct football from Crystal Palace..
Palace are a joy to watch. Really direct and fast.
Now if you want to criticize Arteta for building a shit team that’s fair but everybody has been fawning over how great this team is
shouldnt you be watching the spurs game?
It’s both. If I were to point to the biggest issue it’s a lack of creative impetus which is why Trossard has low key been the MVP of the campaign. He immediately is able to come up with ideas and solu...
A midfield that can draw from Eze, Nwaneri or Ødegaard should not be struggling to create.
Artetas midweek post match presser where he talked about Madueke’s individual moment was telling. The game is about the players. Now that particular example is a worldie but we need more players grabb...
Now if you want to criticize Arteta for building a shit team that’s fair but everybody has been fawning over how great this team is
Artetas midweek post match presser where he talked about Madueke’s individual moment was telling. The game is about the players. Now that particular example is a worldie but we need more players grabbing the game by the scruff. We are certainly capable of it. But to think Arteta is telling them not to do it is ludicrous.
Trossard Madueke and Eze are of that same mold
they protect the ball well while moving forward
confidence has a lot to do with that
It’s both. If I were to point to the biggest issue it’s a lack of creative impetus which is why Trossard has low key been the MVP of the campaign. He immediately is able to come up with ideas and solu...
Trossard Madueke and Eze are of that same mold
they protect the ball well while moving forward
Wharton is a decent player
How to miss easy chances by Crystal Palace.
Palace should be ahead here. And watching Adam Wharton is great, we should be in for him next summer.
the problem is in front of our defensive line
It’s both. If I were to point to the biggest issue it’s a lack of creative impetus which is why Trossard has low key been the MVP of the campaign. He immediately is able to come up with ideas and solutions.
And we are the best defense in Europe but that back line has been gutted over the past few weeks. I’m not making excuses but if you remove the strongest part of the team it’s going to be very detrimen...
the problem is in front of our defensive line
they counter well and take more centrally located shots
but to your point....more teams should be scoring against them
And we are the best defense in Europe but that back line has been gutted over the past few weeks. I’m not making excuses but if you remove the strongest part of the team it’s going to be very detrimental.
It’s a tough league and each team has flaws. I just think it’s disingenuous to point out all of the flaws we have and then believe we should be ten points clear. We are probably where we should be and...
they counter well and take more centrally located shots
but to your point....more teams should be scoring against them
We could learn how to play simple yet effective direct football from Crystal Palace..
This City team are not great defensively. I think that is a reason for the frustration that we are just two points ahead of them.
It’s a tough league and each team has flaws. I just think it’s disingenuous to point out all of the flaws we have and then believe we should be ten points clear. We are probably where we should be and hopefully we continue to get better.
Palace all over the great City right now. Why isn’t City already up by three goals?
This City team are not great defensively. I think that is a reason for the frustration that we are just two points ahead of them.
We’ve gots guys that have been in and out of the team with injury. Have really quite built up a great rhythm. Most important thing is to build up some consistency again and start another run.
Our fir...
*haven’t
We’ve gots guys that have been in and out of the team with injury. Have really quite built up a great rhythm. Most important thing is to build up some consistency again and start another run.
Our fir...
yes
and more varied
being a dad has nothing to do with anything...your talking out your arse
Giroud wasnt the fastest pony in the stable either...not that im overly convince with victor
We’ve gots guys that have been in and out of the team with injury. Have really quite built up a great rhythm. Most important thing is to build up some consistency again and start another run.
Our first phase buildup needs to quicker and more intentional.
Odegaard has not been the same since he became a dad, fatherhood hits people in different ways, we need leaders who can compartmentalise, we should relieve Odegaard of leadership duties and allow him ...
being a dad has nothing to do with anything...your talking out your arse
Giroud wasnt the fastest pony in the stable either...not that im overly convince with victor
Palace all over the great City right now. Why isn’t City already up by three goals?
What a miss. He had about two weeks to take aim and score
Odegaard has not been the same since he became a dad, fatherhood hits people in different ways, we need leaders who can compartmentalise, we should relieve Odegaard of leadership duties and allow him to focus on creating again, give Rice the armband and Big Gab VC they have earned it. The Gyokores thing is not working out either he does not look strong enough or fast enough to bully EPL defenders who are the strongest and fastest brutes around, he is not a top level striker like the Kanes or Haaland and tbf not many of them around.
We’ve made massive steps in the past few years. Beating Real Madrid decisively over two legs is one of them. I still believe this is the final step but if you ask me if they are the finished product in December the answer is no.
its a learnign thing so long as the team on the field is fresh
Bottling it is a player thing. They either rise to the pressure or crumble because of it. If we win this season it’s because the players broke through that threshold. I personally think they’ll get th...
its a learning thing
It's more than a poor performance. It's a repeating pattern based on how we play especially when we get nervous (which others call "bottling" it). Unless this team finds a rhythm and improvisational a...
im not down with the 'pattern' BS
we need to go more direct and through the middle more frequently...we need to use victor better...maybe he also needs to develop his hold up game a little better as well
It's more than a poor performance. It's a repeating pattern based on how we play especially when we get nervous (which others call "bottling" it). Unless this team finds a rhythm and improvisational a...
Bottling it is a player thing. They either rise to the pressure or crumble because of it. If we win this season it’s because the players broke through that threshold. I personally think they’ll get there. But yes there is still a ways to go.
I’m not scared and I avoid hyperbole. A poor performance but I still think we are the best team in the league. We analyze, adjust and go against.
It's more than a poor performance. It's a repeating pattern based on how we play especially when we get nervous (which others call "bottling" it). Unless this team finds a rhythm and improvisational ability up front, we're not breaking down well-organised teams. We need a Biot more from all our forwards to compete with Haaland.
I’m not scared and I avoid hyperbole. A poor performance but I still think we are the best team in the league. We analyze, adjust and go against.
we must be able to adjust quicker ,,,when we get into that groove we will be dominant for years
Guehi great defending there
I'm sorry if my words frighten you that you have to make light of the warning signs. We're gonna bottle out again unless we work out a better, more fluid attacking strategy.
I’m not scared and I avoid hyperbole. A poor performance but I still think we are the best team in the league. We analyze, adjust and go against.
yeah,,, when are we going to hear the punishment for Schitty?
Chill the fuck out Jesus Christ lol
I'm sorry if my words frighten you that you have to make light of the warning signs. We're gonna bottle out again unless we work out a better, more fluid attacking strategy.
If Arsenal don't do it under Arteta this season, they never will
anyone wanting the title has to learn how to defeat the low block- too many teams rely on getting their single points for survival/ relavance.
Any coach will have to deal with it
Foden's finding a spark again and Haaland, Haaland, Haaland.
Chill the fuck out Jesus Christ lol
Wow look at those City kits
The C115h team is far from its very best, but they will probably still win the thing because the manager and players know how.
Ours are scared of their own shadow and are anxiety-ridden.
City is aging and Pep is getting discovered
If Arteta is not careful he will too
(too much reliance in bringing the ball out wide to break down the low block without moving the ball quick enough inside)
If Arsenal don't do it under Arteta this season, they never will
No Gundo either and yes Haaland is a freak but they are one injury to him from chatting to Palace and Brighton
They also have Rodri operating at 50%, no De Bruyne, no Walker and a keeper with his boots on backwards.
Foden's finding a spark again and Haaland, Haaland, Haaland.
Their best player is a centre-forward who is arguably the best in his position. While our best players are two central defenders and box-to-box midfielder. Saka is our direct challenge for that best p...
They also have Rodri operating at 50%, no De Bruyne, no Walker and a keeper with his boots on backwards.
I don't think the club has a choice but to go for another CM in January.
Norgaard isn't getting picked and Merino is nowhere near as impactful in CM as he is up top.
I understand the fandom PTSD about City, but they are a pale imitation of the previous teams we were beaten by.
I still think Arsenals biggest threat is Arsenal.
Their best player is a centre-forward who is arguably the best in his position. While our best players are two central defenders and box-to-box midfielder. Saka is our direct challenge for that best player tag. He's got fight on his hands.
3 games a week
rice will break down/ exhustion
its a miracle merino hasnt already
we have depth we should use it more frequently so the level of play isnt as noticeable as it currently is
He could have. Are you ready to have Noorgard be your #6 in front of that makeshift backline? Results would be mixed I think and you can see in the title race there is no margin for error.
For instan...
A fully fit Norgaard versus an unfit/unwell Rice making errors everywhere? Yes.
The manager doesn't rare Norgaard. I don't think it's anymore complicated than that.
I mean we did sign a DM from a team who played a very low, compact block with three centre backs and two wing backs behind him.
Not a surprise he might not be the same player in a team who play with their backline on the half way line.
Weird signing.
We were linked with Mainoo a few weeks ago. Would take him tbh.
Norgaard could have played yesterday.
We wonder why we have so many injuries. The evidence is there before us. Playing players into the ground. He does it every season despite the size of the squad. ...
He could have. Are you ready to have Noorgard be your #6 in front of that makeshift backline? Results would be mixed I think and you can see in the title race there is no margin for error.
For instance I have seen reasons why MLS doesn't play that much. He gets caught out every game.
I just think it’s a way more nuanced problem than it’s Artetas fault.
Just from following on the arses, it was more jammy than a jam factory run by James McJammyjam
Even jammier. It was jammier than a person in Liverpool exclaiming how jammy something that it is, in actuality, without any Scouse hyperbole or hysteria, rather jammy truly is jammy.
Anyway..
Come On You Eagles!!!
There mitigating circumstances- backline and striker injuries are hampering some of his ability to play others. Rice’s natural replacement is Merino probably and he’s been overplayed at 9. Norgaard is...
Norgaard could have played yesterday.
We wonder why we have so many injuries. The evidence is there before us. Playing players into the ground. He does it every season despite the size of the squad. It's his own fault.
Just from following on the arses, it was more jammy than a jam factory run by James McJammyjam
Rice will be played unless he is missing a limb.
He was poor yesterday, not his fault if he's tired and ill, but the manager needs to understand that if you can't go, you can't go.
Play Norgaard, o...
There mitigating circumstances- backline and striker injuries are hampering some of his ability to play others. Rice’s natural replacement is Merino probably and he’s been overplayed at 9. Norgaard is really Zubimendi’s backup for all intents and purposes.
Rice will be played unless he is missing a limb.
He was poor yesterday, not his fault if he's tired and ill, but the manager needs to understand that if you can't go, you can't go.
Play Norgaard, o...
Surely Norgaard the PL proven CDM has enough ability to deal with the worst team in the league? I don't get the reluctance to deploy him at all
Last night must've been one of the ugliest ugly wins we've ever had and I didn't even watch the match ffs..
It was that bad.
we have plenty of players hungry for mins.
use them
Rice will be played unless he is missing a limb.
He was poor yesterday, not his fault if he's tired and ill, but the manager needs to understand that if you can't go, you can't go.
Play Norgaard, otherwise, why did we sign him?
Last night must've been one of the ugliest ugly wins we've ever had and I didn't even watch the match ffs..
we have plenty of players hungry for mins.
use them
Nwaneri
we have plenty of players hungry for mins.
use them
Today I feel... Crystal Palace
The last two games on paper should have been a walk in the park. Brugge was but Wolves just shows again what can happen in the PL.
Was definitely a concerning performance but I’m not going to go overboard. There is a lot of chopping and changing in the back that is not helping. To be honest the performance that stil bothers me is Chelsea. They bullied us and we did not respond to that at all. I can’t remember the last time we were bullied.
Poor all round yesterday.
Rice looked 50% effective in the first half , same for Zubi and Eze was absent.
Martinelli had his bendy boots on , but at least he put in the effort.
For all of our solid defensive-ness , we absolutely cannot defend a lead at the end of a match. We ve tried it at Sunderland , Villa and now Wolves (and to some extent Brentford) , and it has backfired every time. Yesterday we got out of jail. We only know how to play one way, that’s attacking and defending as a team. Stick to that.
Come on Palace.
That game yesterday broke a lot of people lol
I understand the fandom PTSD about City, but they are a pale imitation of the previous teams we were beaten by.
I still think Arsenals biggest threat is Arsenal.
There was a moment when Zubimendi had the ball & was looking around and I said to the TV 'just shoot from there '. But he didn't - it went sideways again which is so old school.
Too slow, too many touches, everything has to go through Saka or be worked down the right, and when we play like that, the left wing is entirely moribund.
What has happened to the midfield? Teams are...
The way Calafiori instinctively finds the right time and space to move forward is a skill that others like Eze and Ødegaard could learn from. Maybe Arteta leaves it to him to do. If so, why not others? Both Ødegaard and Eze lacked the kind of effective movement into dangerous space and execution of a cross or shot which Calafiori has perfected.
Too slow, too many touches, everything has to go through Saka or be worked down the right, and when we play like that, the left wing is entirely moribund.
What has happened to the midfield? Teams are going through us now, when they couldn’t get near our goal before.
I think we missed Cala from an attacking perspective.
And why are the players playing so scared? The way they sit back after scoring is very reminiscent of Emery ball when he was here.
Ode is one of the worst strikers of the ball I’ve seen; it’s like it’s alien to him, and he looks awkward when shooting, which is weird.
And another fucking injury.
I think it's important to objectively assess a player who is crowned our most skilful, most creative, the fulcrum of Arteta's system. Is our captain known for being a matchwinner, ie someone who wins important matches with a piece of skill, and assist or a goal. Is that really our captain?
The new added anxiety is not my football club It's more medical stuff. I meant that people seem to expect their teams to be miraculous all the time and even with our many newbies we still seem beset b...
Well, I hope the medical issues are something that improves for you. Feel better mrswoo.
Knives are out for Mr Ødegaard today I see ;)
I don’t think we’ll sell Odegaard In January! That’s crazy talk at a time when we top the league
Have to say that he has been hyped up for a very long time now.
I’ll support anyone who puts on an Arsenal shirt but the amount of hype around Odegaard is something I’ve never understood. Even in the...
Oddly enough I've seen it mooted that we might sell him in January - I just presumed it was click bait but I have wondered if his wife has been leaning on him to get back to home to Norway so she can get back to her job on a Norwegian tv dance programme.
Use of "abjure" = trophy for you
Thanks Salaar, I'll put it next to the teeny tiny one that my father got in 1956 when car rallies were a popular as a pastime in the countryside at the weekends.
When did thr captain and attacking midfielder Odegaard last win us a big game, a crucial match-deciding moment? Has he ever? The closest I can come up with is a free kick winner at .... Burnley ... 3 ...
Have to say that he has been hyped up for a very long time now.
I’ll support anyone who puts on an Arsenal shirt but the amount of hype around Odegaard is something I’ve never understood. Even in the National team, his standout performances are usually against the ‘smaller’ national teams.
He’s obviously a nice technical player and when he’s on form, he links the play very well which has contributed to us winning games. A very good player to have on his day. But those days are not nearly enough.
He’s had injuries and illness and last season having his own kid might have impacted him but at the end of the day he’s had a team built around him by Arteta and been handed the captaincy. He’s v v lucky if you ask me. And he needs to start repaying that faith a lot more now.
I’ll back him when he shows the effort he usually does but I’m often critical of him because he’s limited and he’s had quite a helping hand from the start. His coach/manager dad selecting him to play Eliteserien for Strømsgodset in Norway aged 13-15, private coaches from 8, special treatment, the works. Whilst obviously talented not everyone has a daddy to open doors the way his has. And I haven’t seen a massive improvement in his all around play since he signed for us.
The new added anxiety is not my football club It's more medical stuff. I meant that people seem to expect their teams to be miraculous all the time and even with our many newbies we still seem beset b...
Use of "abjure" = trophy for you
benzed - completely agree. However this is what we’ve got, these are players chosen by Arteta and moulded into Arteta’s ideas. It’s all been great progression until now, so we stick with him. Thanks Mikel, genuinely. Whether it’s enough to get us over the line finally is still to be seen and it’s this season or never.
Up to now I’d say our season has been ‘good’ and currently ‘mediocre’, putting us at the top. However our rivals are catching us and historically way stronger after the new year.
If our season follows recent years and performance drops further, into ‘poor’ territory, we will fall down the league quickly and I fear this whole experiment will crumble, having never quite reached the peak.
I hope Heinze can perhaps stir up something different?
The new added anxiety is not my football club It's more medical stuff. I meant that people seem to expect their teams to be miraculous all the time and even with our many newbies we still seem beset by injuries and thus have to make cobbled together personnel chsnges. I was as loud as everyone else in wanting Gyökeres but I remain sceptical now having seen nothing to make me abjure this view yet. I think winning just one trophy, as one of you suggested would help to settle everything down as would us fans not constantly moaning and especially not booing.A day full of chores awaits me as I seem to do everything at dead slow and stop nowadays. You have to take what you can get. I still love this team. Hope my typo count is down, soz if it isn't.
When did thr captain and attacking midfielder Odegaard last win us a big game, a crucial match-deciding moment? Has he ever? The closest I can come up with is a free kick winner at .... Burnley ... 3 years ago?
Arse.
In a fairly foul mood generally, so will just let fly with some moaning. I have very quickly started to lose the tentative faith that I had built up, gingerly. I think.the only way we, and the players, will truly believe is after we have won a significant trophy. Maybe any trophy? Until then, nerves and doubt will continue to dominate.
- Eze. One great derby performance, otherwise just coasting. He was able to do that at Palace, not here.
- Odegaard. So many touches before releasing through ball. Technically a superb player, but so poor at shooting. It's dumbfounding. Is that a word?
- Gyökeres. Wasn't scoring much before his injury, but gave us a lot of positive work / contributions outside that. Since injury, looks horrible. He barely sees the ball now, which is not totally his fault. If nothing else can they not say to him "find space, expect every cross or shot to end up 6 yards out in front of goal, and be there".
- Martinelli. So hot and cold. Enough hot this season to get a pass, certainly compared to my expectations but still wasted 3 gilt-edged chances yesterday that Trossard would bury at least one of.
- Why no Madueke yesterday?
- Saka. I dont want to hear that he's tired, he had a month off already with injury. Rice is tired, but still performing (not that Saka was poor yesterday at all).
I don't have a problem with the rest of the side, defense is coping well with significant absences.
The retreating into our half with a one goal lead, I hate it but I'm not sure it's the instructions. Arteta was waving his arms and screaming frantically for them to move upfield time and again. I think it's the players lacking leadership on the pitch. At one point in the 85th minute or similar a defender passed it in to Odegaard in the centre and the pass needed him to run a bit and he was forced into a duel, which of course he lost easily. He is so fucking weak nowadays, and if he can't shoot or lay goals aplenty on a plate I would rarely start him.
Doom.
Wait so there are no assists for own goals? Well that's
not right - it's not as if they slalomed though their own defence to slot it in...
Was it just me or did it feel like a loss last night? I thought about it through the night like after the Villa game.
We really don't give Gyök anything, the structure does not allow for what he is ...
And it might be why we don’t win a title.
I actually think Eze played within himself. You’re given a chance centrally in your favourite position and I too expected more from Eze yesterday.
But then I looked at how many times players were looking to give the ball back to Saka and I just think it’s tactical instructions. I think these players are told that this is where Wolves are weak and this is where we are going to hit them.
But when it doesn’t work out - we are so slow to change it or too scared to against the Manager.
There is no point to Gyokeres if we are not going to slot that ball in to him for him to roll a defender.
We clearly looked a better team once Trossard and Odegaard came on. It may have partly been due to Wolves players tiring and while it’s great seeing Martinelli using his speed to get past the fullback...
Disagree.
Was hoping we’d look miles better with fresh legs, and would start pressing, especially after Saka forced the own goal. It was actually more of the same and then we literally sat back and invited Wolves to score. No one closed with intensity or intelligence.
Trossard miscontrolled a ball and ran it out of play, Odegaard had some energy to run but his decision making and the areas in which he is demanding the ball are all off. He’s screaming for Saliba to pass him a ball with two men on him and of course we lose possession. It’s v stressful to watch. Its almost like the players are stressing eachother out at times.
Odegaard played one nice ball into Gyokeres for him to finally get a shot off but twice prior Ode hit the outside netting when Merino was well placed for a cut back and then blasted over when three players were better placed.
His body shape when he shoots is often wrong and it’s getting quite annoying now.
I just wonder if we underestimate what a calming and commanding presence Gabriel is at the back with his leadership.
Rice did well considering he was recovering from illness.
Merino did not touched the ball once or twice I reckon. So I’m not sure why he was brought on as an 8.
It wasn't a great performance but - Wolves played eight at the back. What kind of space did it leave? It was much more a game for Trossard than Martinelli, but did the former have 90 minutes in him? Same goes for Odegaard. I thought Eze did all right when he was prepared to take a risk and try to get past his man.
My biggest takeaway from it is that the team seemed physically and mentally shattered, and who can blame them after a run of important games every three days. This one week 'break' couldn't come at a better time.
It felt like a win because it was.
It also felt like shit because we were.
Accurate summary.
Don't think it's leather these days ;)
Is it vegan leather?
Was it just me or did it feel like a loss last night? I thought about it through the night like after the Villa game.
We really don't give Gyök anything, the structure does not allow for what he is ...
It felt like a win because it was.
It also felt like shit because we were.
We clearly looked a better team once Trossard and Odegaard came on. It may have partly been due to Wolves players tiring and while it’s great seeing Martinelli using his speed to get past the fullback, Leo is a far more intelligent player. The two of them, once on the pitch were able to get more out of the rest of the team, and I thought that before Jesus was brought on, Gyokeres had his best spell
Was it just me or did it feel like a loss last night? I thought about it through the night like after the Villa game.
We really don't give Gyök anything, the structure does not allow for what he is good at. Arteta won't change that. Makes me sad.
Like alot of you said we are too predictable, Eze does what? Breaks my heart to say he is disappointing.
Top of the league yyeeeeooooo
Don't think it's leather these days ;)
I know wolves are shite, but man city needed a last minute goal from the white Pele to beat Leeds, and that was after chucking away a 2 goal lead.
Unfortunately poor performances from us will be scrutinized more until we win it. 115 can get away with
At the end of the day it's just a load of men kicking a bit of leather around a field
Don't think it's leather these days ;)
morning petals, I know I rely only team to cheer me up too much to compensate for other areas in my life. I must grow up.. Anyway we won. My woes are still where they always were with new added anxiet...
Haha. Me too.
What has Deadie Nketiah got for us today?
...in a very slow, predictable and increasingly anxious way 😒
I'm going to enjoy the break from football during the week, sounds like you should do the same NB!
At times we look stationary like subbuteo players, the lack of and repetitive movement off the ball at times is fairly sterile and makes it easy to defend against.
We need less horizontal passing and a bit more into feet around the edge of the box. I only saw the one ball played to Gyökeres in this fashion and he managed to spin the defender and get a shot away, granted it was fairly tame and went wide but Saka almost got to it and it was the sort of pass that Gyökeres needs and which if others are more alert can pounce on and cause defensive panic.
The rest of our play was pretty much the same as we are used to seeing. I believe we would like to see more fluidity in possession, some interchanging of positions in the forward line wouldn't go amiss. While it might leave us a bit more vulnerable it would also open up the opposition and leave them with more headaches as to where the next pass is coming from and maybe lead to more genuine efforts on goal.
But at the end of the day 3 points were gained but the performance will encourage our next opponents who may feel that cracks are starting to show.
At the end of the day it's just a load of men kicking a bit of leather around a field
...in a very slow, predictable and increasingly anxious way 😒
At the end of the day it's just a load of men kicking a bit of leather around a field
Hoped Gyokeres might be a cross between Frank Stapleton and Robin Van Persie . Seems more like a hybrid of Ray Hankin and Lee Chapman.
I suppose that means he won't end up Judasing to Man U.
too soon tompemb ;p
When everyone sucks to this extent, you have to look top-down.
Feel for the players a bit when I hear Arteta scolding them for lack of bravery.
Why the hell have you got them frightened of the central third, Mikel? This is not new.
Well in NB
Well thank fuck for that Blogs
Passengers...
I think we need Gabriel back asap and I can’t wait for Havertz to return. Whether it’s an 8 or 9… I look forward to having him as an option again.
We need someone who can hold the ball up, lay the ball off and stick in a finish. A real team-player.
I think the decision-making of some of these players is off. I think there’s an element of selfishness that I haven’t seen before - too many are taking a shot when it’s not on, or when others are better placed.
I lost count of the number of times we crossed the ball into the box yesterday (to no one)and it just got thumped away. We are missing some calmness and better decision-making.
Something looks very off.
Club needs to be decisive on Gyokeres. Think we can all see he isn't it
Atmosphere getting edgier where I sit.
Nothing like as positive as it was 3 seasons ago.
Equally think this team will be much much better when/ if it has achieved.
The psychological shackles will come off_ the crowd, the team, the manager.
Hoped Gyokeres might be a cross between Frank Stapleton and Robin Van Persie . Seems more like a hybrid of Ray Hankin and Lee Chapman.
I suppose that means he won't end up Judasing to Man U.
WiNB
Most of the first half was played in the Wolves half, we had possession, but I reckon 80% of it went down our right hand side through Saka or looking for Saka.
We are becoming v predictable. And whilst Saka is our most reliable player, I don’t think we should do 5 consecutive attacks down the right.
We move the ball so slowly in recent games and I don’t get it. Is it Arteta?
Eze had a nice flash of link up play with some one touch stuff and then that’s it, it’s back to finding Saka.
There is zero point in Gyokeres right now.
I couldn’t figure out whether it’s him not making the runs through or whether no one is looking for him. Whatever it is, it’s not working.
Timber has twice beaten Gyokeres to a headed chance on goal too. Poor communication and also some egos.
Not much changed with the subs either. Still a very slow build up. Did Merino touch the ball?
Thought Martinelli was woeful yesterday - no consistency unless it’s a CL game. Odegaard’s shooting is equally wasteful especially when we had players in box ready for a cut back.
There’s an element of ‘ego/selfishness’ in some of these players and it needs to stop. Rice and Zubimendi are ultimate team players… the rest need to up their decision making at times.
It's odd how so many of the highly thought of players fail when arriving in our league from overseas.
Noticed something amiss in the league matches starting with Sunderland game, where opposition began having chances against us out of the blue, uncharacteristically. That happened again with Chelsea, again with Villa and now Wolves. When they start to attack our whole structure falls apart and we forget the solid composure that's been built this season. The problems kept piling up in the league match after match since Sunderland. And that's baffling. The midfield cohesion has lost of late. Not even a single shot in the 1st half at home against the bottom team is unbelievable. They seem lost. Martinelli is not good enough to start games really. Gyokeres is too limited to thrive in this setup.
Wasn't Wolves the type of game we were assured that Gyökeres would bag his goals from? It's not looking good. He's got a battle now to prove he's not a massive flop.
Arse and this
Was a rarely sighted tufty on here just now ?
haha - I managed to make a typo in there whilst post that. D'Uh.
More tea !
Blogs I think the maybe a typo here..
half an hour in I was on my feel about to celebrate - should that be feet ?
morning petals, I know I rely only team to cheer me up too much to compensate for other areas in my life. I must grow up.. Anyway we won. My woes are still where they always were with new added anxieties. However, onward and upward.
We need a striker.
Not going to echo much of what Northbank has said.
Gyokeres is he too old to coach. He is certainly too old to be promising.
Running Saka and Rice into the ground.
Imagine Bukayos stats if he had a striker.
Form wise feels like the back end of last season.
Eze needs to work it out ASAP.
Wasn't Wolves the type of game we were assured that Gyökeres would bag his goals from? It's not looking good. He's got a battle now to prove he's not a massive flop.
Around the opposition box, that is.
Give the ball to Saka and occupy the half space around the area. Just watch the lack of midfield verticality yesterday.
Actually don’t. It was ugly viewing.
I'm not convinced that Rice was fully recovered from his recent illness, he didn't seem to have his usual energy. And maybe against teams who park the bus, Jesus is trickier. Maybe having a full week between matches will help.
Post match Arteta seemed to be saying that the poor performance was down to lack of training time, and now they have a clear week...
He looked quite intense about it
I think lack of central progression needs to be addressed urgently. Our midfield instantly passes wide or orbits Saka. Very obvious reluctance to play through teams… and when everyone is lateral to Saka it leaves us open to counter-attacks.
Yet we still won and we beat Bayern. It wasn't pretty, but we're finding a way. I don't know what Eze is doing, he just drifts through games. Odegaard sets the tempo even if he's not scoring. Gyokeres...
We still won and beat Bayern. Silver linings to the clouds forming. As long as we keep winning. Eze needs to step up and demand the ball. I think he's expecting more from the other attacking players but I think he's the one who needs to switch it up and go looking for spaces in the middle. He was often surrounded by four players but they were all about 10-15ft away, so he could be receiving in those spaces and looking for the quick ball into a runner. But Gyökeres is slow (caught on his heels is becoming a catchphrase for him!) and so are the other forwards. Everyone wants an extra touch. And as I said last night, Ødegaard is a ringleader of that kind of cautious approach play. I don't know if you can coach it into them at this stage. they have to perfect Arteta's drills to work the flanks and walk it into the net!
This same Wolves team allowed Yaknighted to slice through them like a hot knife through butter...
Our approach play is very predictable. Out to the wings, Martinelli and Saka take on the full-back, and either drive into the box for a pull-back or shot, or an early cross. When they're on song, it's...
Yet we still won and we beat Bayern. It wasn't pretty, but we're finding a way. I don't know what Eze is doing, he just drifts through games. Odegaard sets the tempo even if he's not scoring. Gyokeres needs money to go in off his arse or something.
Zubimendi was NOT happy at being subbed yesterday, he stomped his way round the pitch on his way back to the bench.
Jesus did more on the ball in 15 minutes than Gyökeres di all game. That's worrying and pleasing in equal measure. It is good to see him back. I think we need Havertz back soon as well.
Arse. Well in NB.
Morning all.
That was a hard watch. We did the thing again of going ahead and then completely surrendering the initiative to the opposition. That's on the management, that's the on...
Our approach play is very predictable. Out to the wings, Martinelli and Saka take on the full-back, and either drive into the box for a pull-back or shot, or an early cross. When they're on song, it's devastating against any defence. When they're stuttering and have to think twice about taking on the last man or who to cross to, it looks pedestrian. They don't seem to trust the central players to receive the ball surrounded by defenders. Makes us look like a Sunday League team at times. Bayern and PSG's kind of ball circulation one-touch play seems to be beyond us and that's frustrating.
Sherwood made a point last night post match, that one of the big dangers to our title challenge will be anxiety setting in during a game
Arse. Well in NB.
Morning all.
That was a hard watch. We did the thing again of going ahead and then completely surrendering the initiative to the opposition. That's on the management, that's the one thing that really winds me up.
I will say though, that we've seen all title winning teams dig out wins like this where they play horribly. When they do it it's the sign of champions. When we do it all the players and the manager are cunts.
We take the W and move on.
Next five Prem games:
Everton (A) Sat 20th Dec, 8pm
Brighton (H) Sat 27th Dec, 3pm
Aston Villa (H) Tue 30th Dec, 8.15pm
Bournemouth (A) Sat 3rd Jan, 5.30pm
Liverpool (H) Thur, 8th Jan, 8pm
The types of odd days and KO times that invite drama.
Arteta had better be coaching the attack rather than thinking the problem is in defence, as much as we miss Gabriel and Mosquera.