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The football world has witnessed how dramatic major managerial changes can be over the years. In recent years, Sir Alex Ferguson's retirement and the significant downfall of Manchester United since then is a prime example. Arsenal is going through something similar this season since they decided to replace Arsene Wenger after 22 years.
After all the drama, the negativity and the debates, they finally decided to replace their legendary manager with Unai Emery. Fans and critics were sceptical of this move since Unai Emery was sacked by Paris Saint-Germain last season. But it would be fair to say that Arsenal has slowly turned things around after their initial hiccups.
Arsenal now stand 5th in the English Premier League while managing a decent run of form in Europa League. Their last game against Liverpool in the league turned out a 1-1 draw but their performance garnered huge praise from viewers.
It was Arsenal taking the fight to Liverpool's doorstep and their positive outflow reminded why it still is one of the best games in the English Premier League. It is clear that the process and the journey matter more than immediate results for Arsenal. Let us quickly evaluate three reasons for Arsenal's significant improvement this season.
#1 'Emery-ball'
Not as popular as Sarriball, Unai Emery brings his own set of advantages at the table to any new club. His work with Sevilla was noticed and surprised the football world although his days in Paris were filled with controversies and high expectations.
When he took over from Arsene Wenger, few people expected that he would propel Arsenal towards a Champions League spot. But Unai Emery is slowly and silently doing his work with his new club.
The last few seasons of Arsene Wenger were more bitter than sweet for Arsenal and they badly needed a breath of fresh air. And Unai Emery managed to do just that and raised the spirits in the dressing room.
"For me personally, the biggest thing was that he’s someone who really knows what he wants from each player," the Germany international, Shkodran Mustafi said when asked what Emery has added since replacing Arsene Wenger.
A positive, fresh and resilient Arsenal were evident when they took on Liverpool. There is no doubt that Unai Emery deserves credit, not just for his man management or mentality but also for the tactical changes and substitutions. Thanks to their new manager, Arsenal looks to have overcome the successive hiccups and obstacles.
#2 Individual improvements
Recent performances which takes Arsenal's unbeaten streak to 15 matches show how effective they have been in attacks and how solid their defence is. Although they are not flawless, the players look more confident with the ball at their feet and the significantly improved midfield makes Arsenal tick.
There is no doubt about the calibre of Mesut Ozil but performances from Granit Xhaka and Lucas Torreira come as a pleasant surprise to Arsenal fans. Both of them reflect thd grit of the young blood and determination a holding midfielder must have to find success. It is not a surprise that teams have often failed to dominate these young central midfielders.
The physically strong yet technically gifted youth defines the intensity of this new Arsenal team and their ways. Under Emery, the fullbacks are with more responsibility, too. They often overlap which forces the rivals to move back into deep defence. It is never easy to push back a high functioning Liverpool side but Arsenal created lots of chances throughout the match.
The likes of Hector Bellerin and Alex Iwobi look like different players. New dynamic plays have brought some much-needed change to Arsenal and a significant rise to their intensity on the pitch. The confidence and good performances added more intensity off the pitch, too and if the players keeps on their good run, who knows what will happen?
#3 Influx of youth and good transfer windows
Despite the criticisms and chaos regarding the departure of Arsene Wenger, Arsenal managed to break the bank in January and bring Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang into the club by breaking their transfer record. His partnership with another 2017/18 signing, Alexandre Lacazette has become key to Arsenal's success in front of goal.
Slowly and surely, Arsenal have focused on signing young players such as Granit Xhaka in the previous seasons and on replacing old yet experienced players. They have shipped out players such as Alexis Sanchez, Santi Cazorla, Jack Wilshere, Olivier Giroud, Theo Walcott and most of their long-time servants of the club.
Recent signings Matteo Guendouzi, Bernd Leno and Lucas Torreira are not flawless but have played a key role in the club's recent success. Although a team needs a perfect mix of experience and youth for success, the rush of young blood proved beneficial in providing a fresh outlook for this Arsenal team.
There is still work to do for Arsenal players and Unai Emery as the season is still young. There is still room for improvement but it seems that fresh start which Arsenal were desperate to have is taking place. The credit must go the young players and Arsenal management for their newfound fighting spirit, grit, confidence and positivity which has enhanced their performances this season.
