Mikel Arteta has fashioned many versions of Arsenal since taking over in 2019, evolving from a defensive style to a free-flowing attack and then a controlled, physically dominant side. After winning the Premier League, Arteta is reinventing his approach, taking more gambles in personnel and tactics. The 3-0 defeat to Brighton before the international break left a sense of uncertainty, despite Arsenal having won every prior game this season.
Arteta’s men had previously relied on Martin Zubimendi and Declan Rice in midfield, with Myles Lewis-Skelly’s surprise holding midfield role reinvigorating the team late last season. This season, Arsenal use a 3-1-6 shape in possession, with Rice dropping deep to form a back three alongside Ezri Konsa and Gabriel Magalhaes, while Lewis-Skelly operates as the single pivot. Players like Riccardo Calafiori, Ben White, and Martin Odegaard drop deep to create a 3-2 or 4-1 base, overloading opposition and enabling progression.
Lewis-Skelly thrives in this role due to his calmness, hold-up strength, dribbling ability, and willingness to take risks. In William Saliba’s absence, Konsa provides ball-playing quality at centre-back, while Rice’s passing and carrying are maximised in this advanced position. Arteta’s response to the Brighton loss may define Arsenal’s next chapter, balancing increased risk with the potential for greater rewards.
উৎস: BBC Sport Football · সারাংশ: HeadlinesBriefing