Arsenal’s Silver lining from disappointing Dortmund defeat

Arsenal may have lost on Tuesday night against an impressive Borussia Dortmund side, but Arsene Wenger will have taken plenty of encouragement from some individual performances, notably that of Mikel Arteta.

Many Arsenal fans were worried when Mathieu Flamini was ruled out on the Champions League tie with concussion, following a head collision against Norwich on Saturday. Flamini has added a shield in front of the defence since his arrival on a free transfer in August. His style has enabled the other midfielders to flourish in the final third, with Jack Wilshere and Aaron Ramsey already breaking their personal goal scoring records for the season. Could Arteta alone fill that void? It could be argued had Flamini been in the side, Robert Lewandowski’s winner may not have happened. On the other hand, Arteta was everywhere on Tuesday night, making several crucial tackles, interceptions and as always, tidy in possession.

Mikel Arteta stats

Despite being one of Arsenal’s best performers last season, Arteta was often criticised for his performances in the big games, especially in Europe. It all changed on Tuesday night as Arteta stood out as one of Arsenal’s best performers. This was one of the toughest opponents he had ever played against, with the likes of Marco Reus, Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Sven Bender in Dortmund’s midfield.

With five tackles, four clearances and a take on, Arteta appeared to finally rise to the demanding nature of the Champions League last night. He was unusually energetic and set the fast tempo the Gunners played with in the second half. Passing has always been his strong point, and he continued that with a huge 79 completed passes, with a 90% success.

Mikel Arteta stats

His ability on the ball means team-mates can trust him. Arteta is often seen as the safety blanket for other midfielders, using the Spaniard to relieve pressure when playing against team who play with a pressing game – like Dortmund. Arteta also made two interceptions and even more unusually for him won two aerial duels.

Mikel Arteta stats

In tougher games Arsene is likely to select both Flamini and Arteta at the base of the midfield, but Flamini’s arrival may bring the best out of the pass master, Mikel Arteta. Arteta turns 32 this season, and he is starting to show his top form in the Champions League, the reason he made the £10 million deadline day move to Arsenal two seasons ago.

Arsenal have plenty of options for the attacking midfield slots, but a defensive presence is needed in the middle to give the midfield a good balance. For this to happen it is essential the experienced duo of Arteta and Flamini continue their impressive form.