The English Premier League begins in a little over a month, and many ardent fans are counting down the days until the start. With teams splashing cash and star-studded managers imposing their presence in the league, fans eagerly await what the season has in store. Manchester United, Manchester City, and Chelsea headline the transfer rumor section of news outlets with their numerous summer acquisitions. But let’s look at a team with the infamous minimal or last-minute activity in the summer transfer window: Arsenal FC. Let’s analyze several options of what their optimal starting lineup could look like during the course of the 2016-2017 season.
A three-man midfield
Under manager Arsene Wenger, Arsenal usually employed a 4-2-3-1 formation, where the “2” were midfielders that served as protection for the defenders. At the beginning of last season, Santi Cazorla and Francis Coquelin occupied those positions. But with the outstanding performances of Aaron Ramsey for Wales in Euro 2016 and the purchase of the combative Swiss midfielder Granit Xhaka, Wenger must reassess the midfield.
A Cazorla-Xhaka-Ramsey midfield could reap the best results. Xhaka’s tough tackling and adept passing skills can liberate the attack-minded Aaron Ramsey and allow him to play a freelance role in the midfield, much like the one he played for Wales. Cazorla will serve as Arsenal’s metronome, dictating the pace of the team’s attack and exhibiting the wisdom to sit back and defend.
Play with two strikers instead of one
Olivier Giroud has encountered an incessant amount of criticism for his inconsistent goal scoring for Arsenal over the course of a given season. It cannot, however, solely be blamed on his efforts but rather the formation, as Giroud often found himself on an island in the 4-2-3-1. With a second striker alongside him, particularly one who has been blessed with speed, the Frenchman can flourish.
While playing for the France national team in Euro 2016, Giroud has exhibited a great striking partnership with the petit and fleet-footed Antoine Griezmann of Atletico Madrid, as the duo has combined for nine goals.
A similar system can be utilized at Arsenal.
Pair Giroud with Alexis Sanchez, Theo Walcott or Danny Welbeck, all players who have the speed to compliment the Frenchman’s physical prowess and aerial ability. It could potentially increase the Gunners goal output for next season.
Arsenal has a tough season coming up as they battle with six serious English Premier League title contenders. But with the changes made to the squad formation and maximizing the potential of key players in the squad, Arsenal could lift the coveted trophy.
