5 things we learned from Unai Emery’s first game in charge of Arsenal

#2 Lucas Torreira must start

Torreira was just a substitute on his Premier League debut

It has regularly been a criticism levelled at Arsenal that they have never replaced Patrick Vieira, and they have constantly lacked someone prepared to do the dirty work in midfield. It was hoped that when they signed Granit Xhaka two years ago that they had finally done this, but 70 Premier League appearances later, we’re still not quite sure what he does.

Against City, Arsenal really lacked a presence in midfield, and it was too easy at times for their opponents to find room in behind the midfield.

Torreira made the move to the Emirates from Sampdoria this summer in a deal worth £26 million. He may not be as technically gifted as some of the other midfielders Arsenal have available to them, but he is at least someone who isn’t afraid to put his foot in an make a tackle. He is just the player they need, and will be able to act as a shield for their defence, and would certainly strengthen the team.