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#3 Arteta’s 433 is loading…%
It has been Mikel Arteta’s desire from day one to deploy a 4-3-3 at the Emirates. He famously said in an interview last year that his team are 5 or 6 players from being able to play that system effectively. Today, for the first time in his tenure, the Spaniard lined his team up in this formation.
Previously, we had seen the Gunners switch to it within games, especially when needing a goal. But today was the first time the boss had used it from the start. With Thomas Partey as the single pivot, the Ghanaian was surrounded by Martin Ødegaard and Emile Smith-Rowe in a midfield three consisting of contrasting profiles. Partey was the #6, ESR the #8 and Ødegaard functioned as a floating #10 in behind Aubameyang. Expect to see more of this in the future, especially against low-blocks.
#2 Ben White blows hot ‘n’ cold
Coming into this game, a lot was said about the Englishman’s aerial ability, his most glaring weakness. His performance against Brentford & Ivan Toney only intensified those calls. Today, up against a combative Chris Wood, the young defender faced his toughest test to date. However, in a confusing switch of events, the 23-year-old was solid in the air today and a little shaky on the ball.
No player produced more headed clearances (6) than Ben White today. On top of that, he won four out of seven of his aerial duels. On the ball, he lost possession twelve times with two of his mistakes almost costing his team the game. This was only his third start in Arsenal colours and it is only a matter of time before we start seeing him at his best.
#1 Arsenal’s new no.1 – Aaron Ramsdale
It may be time for the entire Arsenal fanbase to get on their knees and apologize to Aaron Christopher Ramsdale. When the youngster was first signed, there was an enormous backlash. Many fans could not comprehend why the club was buying a keeper that had been relegated in consecutive seasons. Fast forward a few weeks and the 23-year-old has started three games for the Gunners, keeping three clean sheets.
In stark contrast to Bernd Leno, Ramsdale commands his box authoritatively and marshals his defense flawlessly. He gives all those around him assured confidence both on the ball and in the air. In another commanding display, the 23-year-old claimed five crosses, made three saves and 26 passes. For the first time in a long time, Arsenal have a keeper that is ready to fight for the badge.
