Sheffield United 1-0 Arsenal: 5 Talking Points and Tactical Analysis | Premier League 2019/20

#1 Are Arsenal regressing under Emery?

Emery might be hoping for some inspiration, soon

Back in May 2018, Arsene Wenger announced his departure from Arsenal, a decision that was greeted with glee from some quarters while others looked at it in trepidation, especially after what has transpired at Manchester United since Sir Alex Ferguson bid adieu to the game.

However, the appointment of Emery brought a renewed sense of optimism to a club that had been guilty of being too pessimistic recently. Moreover, the Spaniard endeared himself to the Arsenal faithful with a brand of effervescent attacking football.

Subsequently, the Gunners conjured a few impressive displays against Tottenham and Chelsea at the Emirates, thereby hinting that there may be a hint of sunshine on the horizon.

Yet, akin to many a time previously, there season unravelled towards the latter stages, meaning that the chants of ‘same, old Arsenal’ only grew louder. And, unfortunately, that trend has continued this season too.

So far, the Gunners have posted a few scrappy victories without playing well. In the process, that has masked their deficiencies and papered over visible cracks. However, for the above to work, it is imperative that the North Londoners click into gear more frequently and prove that those edgy performances remain an aberration.

But, that has hardly been the case and consequently, an enormous number of Gooners have been clamouring for Emery’s head. In several encounters, the North Londoners have looked devoid of any strategy, at both ends of the pitch, in the process, highlighting the lack (or too much) of conviction in their planning.

Though unfavourable results are part and parcel of any sport, the manner of Arsenal’s listless displays has irked the fan base even more, especially considering they’d grown tired of it towards the twilight of the Wenger era.

Ironically though, the set of supporters that once craved a pragmatist over a purist are now yearning for one to bring back the free-flowing style of football. Yet, one can’t have the cake and eat it too, can one?