What’s wrong with Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud?

Olivier Giroud

Olivier Giroud has stepped up his performances for Arsenal this season, with his commanding hold-up play impressing many. However as the season drags on, there are signs of the Frenchman struggling with the weight on his shoulders. Giroud and Bendtner are the only senior recognised centre forwards in the Arsenal squad, and with a clear lack of trust from the fans and manager in Bendtner, Giroud has been forced to play 90 minutes in almost all his club’s fixtures this season. On Saturday, with Arsenal chasing a goal, Wenger opted to substitute him, as he was visibly tired.

It was a frustrating afternoon all round for the Arsenal team, but Giroud in particular will have been disappointed in his performance. Tripping over his own feet when through on goal summed up his performance.

He will be somewhat disappointed with having a perfectly legitimate goal ruled out for offside, but still, should have done better with his other chances. With a Squawka Performance Score of just three, Giroud missed the target with all of his three attempts on goal, and only won one aerial duel all afternoon.

He completed just 69% of his passes, which restricted Arsenal’s ability to keep the ball high up the field. When he lost the ball or gave it away, it allowed the Manchester City side to break with devastating effect. When playing such a quality opposition, mistakes are more likely to be punished, and Giroud’s lacklustre performance set the tone for Arsenal’s miserable afternoon.

Despite the criticism, perhaps Bendtner needs to be given a run in the team to allow Giroud to get an extended rest. After all the Dane has done little wrong when given a chance this season. Many Arsenal fans will argue that Giroud’s rest can wait until a new striker is purchased in January, but before that opportunity arises, there is a busy winter schedule for the league leaders. Arsenal cannot afford to keep dropping points, following a trio of lethargic performances over the last week.

Their ability to win the big games has been questioned once again, and Giroud is one of many players who needs to improve in these important fixtures. Whilst his link up play is important in Arsenal’s system, it could be questioned whether or not he scores enough goals. Someone in the mould of Suarez would be a perfect, but difficult addition, as the prolonged summer saga proved. Giroud adds a lot to the squad, but perhaps a more prolific option is needed in order to further strengthen their attacking force.