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The Invincibles: The Legacy With the departures of Patrick Vieira and Gilberto Silva, Arsenal always lacked a perfect midfield setup (the balance was just not right). Curse of trophyless seasons continued one after another leading to the exodus of great players who could have stayed and become one of the greatest Arsenal legends. Nevertheless that was not the case, the trophy drought was on a hot streak, players were leaving but AW led his fight alone. The gaffer from being a top-top manager was now criticized by media and was now being called a selling manager and Arsenal, the selling club. During the time of the Invincibles, Arsenal played a 4-4-2 or 4-4-1-1, the back four were rock solid with the likes of Lauren-Campbell-Toure-Ashley Cole. Gilberto Silva was an invisible shield ahead of the back four which protected them from counter attacks and opponent penetration, this allowed our defense to maintain a high line. Vieira (The General) was the main channel and perhaps the most important link connecting defense to attack. His strong runs from the back to upfront were highly commendable and his deep penetration into the opponent’s midfield gave them nightmares. Attack from right and left mid was left to the masters of the game – Freddie and Pires. Arsenal of 2003/04 was known for its quick-subtle counter attacks and the solid defense which made the impact of our midfield even more stronger. Instant link up play from defending a corner to the quick counter/offside trap was just master class.
The new Arsenal – Begining of an era? Comparing the present Arsenal to the Invincibles would be absurd and too early to judge as they have a lot to prove in the future. However, on an analogy, Arsenal of recent times i.e. Arsenal of 2012-13 are playing a 4-2-3-1. With Diaby and pass master Arteta holding the defensive mid responsibilities. The Spaniard has shown his capabilities last season. Even when Song went upfront in a more attacking role, Mikel Arteta made sure that we keep a clean sheet and did his defensive duties really well (Just like Gilberto Silva). It also allows defenders to fall back and eventually creates more space for Lukas, Cazorla and Theo/Ox to create and attack the thunderstorm. Many may argue that Diaby being a box-to-box midfielder is well suited in that role. However Abou looks like a player who can connect our defense to the offense with the kind of runs he made against Liverpool. With Arteta’s invisible shield at the back, it allows our defense to hold a deep-tight defensive line (Thanks to Stevie ‘Bould). Diaby has expressed his desire that he wants to go upfront, he wants to attack. This season we may see an injury free Diaby and that will be a big bonus for Arsenal FC. So, I see Diaby doing a Patrick Vieira and with le boss’s declaration that Jack Wilshere is expected to return in a month is only going to make our midfield more versatile. Invincibles played with two strikers upfront: Henry-the-King and Dennis-the-Mennis. However Dennis used to play deeper at times and took the playmaker role, just like what Cazorla is doing to the current Arsenal. All Arsenal needs is to fire up Olivier Giroud and prove his mettle in the Barclays Premier League. Arsenal have a wide variety of options to play on the flanks i.e. Podolski, Theo, Ox, Gervinho, Arshavin and the professor knows who to play when and where and many Arsenal fans including me believe he’ll do just about right.
Plans on Aaron Ramsey and Andre Santos: AW could have loaned out Ramsey this season, but he rates him very highly and if you think you’ve seen his best, then mind you he was just warming up. Start of the 2011/12 season Aaron Ramsey was in the form of his life but he missed out in few games and eventually was scapegoated by some deluded Arsenal fans. However #InArseneWeTrust and I fully believe this may be the year for Aaron who is looking more confident than ever and he could be played as a crucial sub in the Santi Cazorla role. You may see Andre Santos in a much attacking position this year than last season, Arsene has realized that the Brazilian has deft attacking skills, playing beautiful triangular passes in high pressing situations and he may finally transform him into the attacking wing role. Arsene has already given the indications regarding Santos’ role in few pre-season games and the game at the Anfield.
Let’s hope for the best, Arsene Knows. Victoria Concordia Crescit. #COYG #VCC
