How the new-look Arsenal should line up

Defence

Hector Bellerin (Right-back)

Bellerin is still young enough to improve on his game

The rangy Spanish right-back endured a difficult start to this campaign, struggling somewhat as a right wing-back in a 3-4-3 formation. He has recovered enough, however, to merit his place in Wenger's best XI. He has so many positive attributes to his game, everything needed to be an elite player, and it just needs to all come together finally: the speed, the athleticism, combined with the crossing and defending qualities.

With the new arrivals all being flair, attacking players, some pressure will be taken off Bellerin to be a main attacking outlet. This should allow him to concentrate more on his own game, particularly defensively. While modern full-backs are expected to bomb down the pitch to support attacks, they should defend well first foremostly.

Shkodran Mustafi (Centre-back)

Mustafi's aerial presence is key to Arsenal's defence

Arsenal's most troublesome department on the pitch is centre-back but Mustafi represents a better choice than Rob Holding at the moment, as the young Englishman has struggled to replicate his good form from last season.

Mustafi is an international defender, signed for big money and has put in many quality performances this season, including against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. If paired beside his senior partner Laurent Koscielny and if the two are given a good run of games together, then a partnership should develop over time.

Since signing for the club, Mustafi hasn't played terrible but he needs to make more of his commanding presence. A great aerial threat, he should be threatening more with this at either end of the pitch. Arsenal have needed someone to do this for a few seasons now, and Mustafi is perfectly capable of doing so.

Laurent Koscielny (Centre-back)

Koscielny's injury woes have stunted Arsenal this season

The French international has been Arsenal's most important defender for a long time now but has unfortunately been beset by niggling injuries in recent times. If he can recover, Koscielny immediately improves the team in defence. As mentioned, there is definitely potential for him and Mustafi to form a solid relationship at the back in Wenger's side.

For too long, Arsenal's inconsistency at the back has meant no true partnership has formed in the centre of defence since Sol Campbell and Kolo Toure. Arsenal needs leaders in their team and having Koscielny in it is vital to allow having players who are vocal, confident, and combative. Perhaps only when Koscielny finally leaves the club will his presence be finally fully appreciated.

Nacho Monreal (Left-back)

Monreal has usurped new signing Kolasinac due to his excellent form

It's a testament to Monreal's performances this season that summer arrival Sead Kolasinac, whose signing was so acclaimed at the time, has fallen out of the first team picture recently. The Spaniard has been arguably Arsenal's best player so far this season. He has performed impressively whether at left-back, left wing-back or centre-back, and he's even added a remarkable number of goals to his game.

Monreal's also showed such passion for the team and the fans, something which is appreciated when a team is going through tough times. His leadership qualities will be needed as the season wears on. It's important for the fans to have representatives on the pitch, players they can relate to, and Monreal's passion this season makes him a candidate for this role.