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With the signing of Gabriel Paulista, Arsenal have finally managed to replace Thomas Vermaelen following his sale to FC Barcelona. Arsenal were short on defenders and this was vindicated by their inconsistent performances in the first half of the season. It looks like Arsenal have added an exciting talent in their defence.
The Arsenal squad finally has the depth which is expected of a title-challenging team. Mesut Ozil and Theo Walcott have returned, but they have started just one match since. Such have been the performances of Santi Cazorla and Oxlade-Chamberlain lately that it seems the starting eleven would be untouchable for some time – barring injuries, which must never be ruled out in case of Arsenal.
New players have stepped up for the Gunners
Alexis Sanchez has been unstoppable and to add to that, an impressive performance at the Etihad has seen the rise of Francis Coquelin as a reliable defensive midfielder. Which leaves Aaron Ramsey, Mesut Ozil and Tomas Rosicky to vie for that remaining centre midfield position.
The competition for places in the squad has soared, evident from the star-studded bench being seen in the last few games. Such has been the depth that Arsenal do not even miss Jack Wilshere’s absence from the first team. The return of Danny Welbeck and Wilshere would only add to the selection woes of Arsene Wenger, who has said time and time that he would love such a head-ache.
Meanwhile, Ospina has been successful in grabbing that goal-keeping position from Szczesny. Hector Bellerin and Nacho Monreal have also performed well in their full back positions. This indicates Arsenal are no longer reliant on any single player for a particular position.
Arsenal have the best squad in the league after Manchester City and Chelsea. But the performances must vindicate this fact. Arsenal are yet to win three matches in a row in the league and that stat must improve if Arsenal are to beat Manchester United, Southampton and Liverpool to that third position in the league. If Arsenal can get a long winning run then a third place finish along with the FA Cup shouldn’t be an unreachable target.
