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When Liverpool played at the Emirates in October 2022, Arsenal had something to prove. The team had won seven out of their first eight games, but apart from a successful match against Spurs, all of those wins were expected. They needed a defining moment to show that they were capable of moving forward and competing at the top. This moment came during an exciting and stylish match with five goals, where Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli dominated.
Arsenal could greatly benefit from making a similar declaration at this time. On Sunday, Liverpool will revisit North London and although the FA Cup may not be Arteta’s main focus, it presents a chance to inject energy into a struggling season. It also offers an opportunity to strike before they face off again in the Premier League in a month’s time.
In the world of football, the cup competition provides a refreshing break: a chance to approach the game with a new perspective and break free from any mental restrictions, especially in front of a supportive crowd. With three losses in the last five games, the team is eager for anything that will reignite their confidence.
Opponents have adjusted their tactics when facing Arsenal in the past few months. The common belief of exploiting their vulnerabilities has become less popular among all teams except for their main rivals. Instead, teams have been content to defend and challenge Arsenal with a new strategy: can they successfully penetrate our defense, and if not, can they prevent a surprise attack?
They were unable to answer either puzzle in unproductive performances against Fulham and, in a match they controlled but lacked scoring abilities, West Ham.
Martin Ødegaard acknowledges that opposing teams are taking notice of their tactics and strategies from last season and the beginning of this season. He believes they are specifically trying to prevent them from utilizing their strengths. He also mentions that teams are likely adapting by playing deeper. In comparison to his first season and the beginning of last season, he noticed that games were more free-flowing because teams were eager to come and attack, as well as press high.
Ødegaard and his fellow creative players must act as lockpickers. Arsenal’s overall performance has improved since Declan Rice joined the team, but they have not been able to replicate the exciting style they had last year. There have been instances, such as their narrow victories against Brentford and Luton, where they have managed to salvage lackluster performances through skill and determination. However, in other cases, such as at Craven Cottage, it is clear that they heavily rely on a fatigued Saka and an out-of-form Martinelli. Perhaps they should consider more daring options when their dynamic wingers are being neutralized.
Ødegaard explains that when facing more defensive strategies from the opposing team, they simply have to adapt and perform at a high level. He enjoys the mental aspect of strategizing against the other team’s tactics and finding openings. It presents a satisfying challenge for him to analyze the game and identify ways to exploit their weaknesses while still maintaining a threatening presence on the field.
If Arsenal is having a hard time, Ødegaard may have to play a deeper role and their possession of the ball becomes less effective. During the recent press conference, Mikel Arteta was questioned about the significance of incorporating different strategies when their usual tactics are not successful. He stated, “It is crucial because it adds an element of unpredictability. This benefits us and makes it harder for our opponents since they must spend more time strategizing.”
In the beginning of his time at Arsenal, there were moments when they were criticized for being too conventional instead of daring. Arteta prioritizes having control and the concern is that, in trying to prevent chaos, they may end up regressing too much. He did not hesitate to mention that the significant injury to Jurriën Timber at the start of the season, during his debut league match against Nottingham Forest, disrupted his plans for the year. The same can be said for the ongoing issues with Thomas Partey, who is still several weeks away from full fitness. Arteta stated, “It’s a huge setback. We also had other strategies to make our playing style more versatile and unpredictable. But without those players, it becomes difficult.”
During the month of January, Arsenal may find a solution to their problems by acquiring a striker who can provide precise finishing to complement Gabriel Jesus’ efforts. They may also finally secure high-quality backup on the wings. As nobody has been able to effectively fill in for Ødegaard when he is not performing well, it may be necessary to bring in additional support behind the striker.
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“We have set a high benchmark,” Ødegaard states. “Our standards have been elevated in the past 18 months. I want others to anticipate us being at the forefront. It is our goal to be at the top and we hold ourselves to that expectation.”
Supporters of the team playing on Sunday will be looking for proof that their team can meet the expectations, despite Liverpool missing Mohamed Salah and having a League Cup semi-final against Fulham on Wednesday.
Observers will witness a new version of Arsenal from the beginning: they will be clothed in an all-white uniform, for the initial time during a home game, in this year’s version of the club’s No More Red initiative. This campaign has been crucial in protecting young individuals from knife-related offenses and other forms of violence. The significance of the message is paramount and its presentation is distinctive. Arsenal may desire that, in terms of their season, the game reflects a fresh start.
Ødegaard expresses contentment with the current circumstances and believes that we will continue to improve. Taking inspiration from our mindset 15 months ago could aid our efforts.
Source: theguardian.com
