Arsenal's Mikel Arteta Says Playing Leeds United Was Like 'Going to the Dentist'
Jan 7, 2020
Arsenal's Spanish head coach Mikel Arteta gestures on the touchline during the English FA Cup third round football match between Arsenal and Leeds United at The Emirates Stadium in London on January 6, 2020. (Photo by Adrian DENNIS / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or 'live' services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No video emulation. Social media in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No use in betting publications, games or single club/league/player publications. / (Photo by ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP via Getty Images)
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta discussed his side's difficulty in beating Leeds United in their third-round FA Cup clash on Monday, which the Gunners eventually won 1-0 at the Emirates Stadium after being comprehensively outplayed in the first half.
Per Goal's Sam France, Arteta said of the Championship leaders:
"I watched a lot of Leeds games and they battered every team every three days. It was good for my players to learn and to suffer on the pitch.
"Thank God, I wasn't happy at all [after the first half]. If you're not ready for Leeds, you'll get exposed.
"To play against Leeds is like going to the dentist. They are a great team and what they've built is powerful."
He noted his own side's improvement in the contest after they changed their "attitude, desire and organisation at half-time."
Leeds dominated the possession and chances in the first half and repeatedly tested goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez through Patrick Bamford and Jack Harrison.
The former also came close when he hit the crossbar, while Ezgjan Alioski also caused the Gunners some problems.
Match of the Day host Gary Lineker and The Independent's Miguel Delaney praised Marcelo Bielsa's side for their excellent performance:
If you didn’t know which the Premier League team was, you could be forgiven for thinking it was @LUFC.
Arsenal were much better after the break, and after Alexandre Lacazette had clipped the woodwork with a free-kick, they broke the deadlock 10 minutes into the second half through Reiss Nelson's close-range finish:
Goal's Charles Watts was impressed with the Gunners' turnaround in the game:
Massive credit to Arsenal and Arteta for turning that round. Leeds so good in the first half, Arsenal excellent in the second. Showed real spirit and determination to get on top and grind out the win. Pepe lively, Laca led the line superbly and Guendouzi won the midfield battle.
Although they also had some good fortune on their side, it was positive that Arsenal weathered the storm and came back into the game.
The Gunners had only won two of their previous 16 matches heading into Monday's match, holding on for victory showed the improvement they're already beginning to make under Arteta's management.
Arsenal are away at Bournemouth in the fourth round of the FA Cup, which could prove another tricky game given they were held to a 1-1 draw there on Boxing Day in the Spaniard's first game in charge.
Reiss Nelson's Goal Lifts Arsenal Past Leeds United in 2020 FA Cup 3rd Round
Jan 6, 2020
LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 06: Reiss Nelson of Arsenal scores his side's first goal past Illan Meslier of Leeds United during the FA Cup Third Round match between Arsenal FC and Leeds United at the Emirates Stadium on January 06, 2020 in London, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
Arsenal progressed to the fourth round of the 2020 FA Cup after narrowly beating Leeds United 1-0 at the Emirates Stadium on Monday night.
The Gunners weathered heavy pressure early on, before Reiss Nelson settled the tie 10 minutes into the second half against the leaders in the Championship. Arsenal now move on to face Bournemouth away later this month.
Arsenal fielded a strong lineup, featuring Alexandre Lacazette and Nicolas Pepe up top, but were overrun early on, with Leeds putting backup goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez through his paces. Winger Jack Harrison forced the Argentinian into a decent save, before striker Patrick Bamford rattled another shot off the bar.
Harrison easily had the beating of Gunners left-back Sead Kolasinac and ran the show during the opening stages. The winger dragged another effort wide with the chances mounting for Leeds.
Arsenal had looked much-improved during a recent 2-0 win over Manchester United, but Mikel Arteta's team was being worked over at will by a side from a lower division.
Part of the Gunners' problem was a lack of cohesion along a reshuffled back four. Rob Holding looked rusty on his return from a lengthy injury absence, while Sokratis Papastathopoulos appeared miscast as a right-back.
Leeds kept the pressure on Arsenal's muddled defensive lineup. The away side also succeeded in keeping the Gunners' chief playmaker quiet:
Mesut Ozil touched the ball six times in the first 30 minutes.
Things changed after the break, with Arteta's players taking starting positions higher up the pitch. A more intense press yielded greater possession, and Mesut Ozil began making it count.
Lacazette cracked a free-kick off the bar then found space on the deck to draw Illan Meslier into a smart save. Those chances were an obvious sign the Gunners were quicker and more purposeful in attacking areas.
The breakthrough came when Pepe wriggled free and played in Lacazette, whose deflected cross rolled into Nelson's path:
2- Reiss Nelson has scored just his second competitive goal for Arsenal on what is his 29th appearance for the Gunners across all competitions. Breakthrough. #FACup#ARSLEEpic.twitter.com/xpyS3Oh2gn
Despite his goal, Nelson was soon subbed for returning striker Gabriel Martinelli. Pepe wasted little time teeing the Brazilian up, but his shot was deflected behind for a corner. Sokratis then glanced a header wide from the corner, before Meslier again denied Martinelli.
The hosts were turning on the style, and another last-ditch block thwarted Kolasinac after the defender worked a neat one-two with a tireless Lacazette.
In the meantime, Ozil, who been transformed in the second half, made way for Joe Willock. Pepe was also withdrawn in favour of another academy graduate, Bukayo Saka.
The fresh legs, along with more considered use of the ball, helped Arsenal get over the line. Seeing out the result was vindication for first-time senior boss Arteta, who in just his fourth game in charge, proved he can motivate sluggish players and get a response.
Meanwhile, a slick Leeds team was left to rue wasting almost total dominance during the first half.
What's Next?
Arsenal are away to Crystal Palace in the Premier League on Saturday, while Leeds host Sheffield Wednesday in English Football's second tier later in the day.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang 'Committed' to Arsenal Amid Transfer Rumours
Jan 6, 2020
LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 01: Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang of Arsenal during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Manchester United at Emirates Stadium on January 1, 2020 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by James Williamson - AMA/Getty Images)
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has assured Arsenal fans he is happy at the club, despite rumours linking the prolific striker with a transfer away from north London.
Aubameyang gave an interview to the club's Rob Kelly for the official matchday programme ahead of the Gunners' 2020 FA Cup third-round tie against Leeds United at the Emirates Stadium on Monday:
"I would also like to react to some of the rumours that are going around about me in the media. People like making up stories and they should focus on what's happening on the pitch. They talk too much and it does my head in! I am the Arsenal captain. I love this club. I am committed to it and desperate to bring it back to the top, where it belongs."
Gary JacobofThe Times reported Arsenal's leading goalscorer told the club he wants to leave in search of trophies in the summer.
This is the second time in recent days Aubameyang has sought to cool talk he is set for the exit. The 30-year-old also spoke toRMC Sport(h/tMetro): "The English press likes to talk a lot. For now, I'm here. I'm 100 percent here."
Using the words "for now" may have caused a few doubts among those concerned about Aubameyang's future. The Gabon international, who is out of contract in around 18 months, has been linked with Barcelona and Serie A outfit Inter Milan, perJohn Crossof theDaily Mirror.
The concern is valid given the former Saint-Etienne and Borussia Dortmund star's importance to the Gunners. He's already helped himself to 15 goals in all competitions this season, including 13 in the Premier League.
Those numbers follow Aubameyang earning a share of the Golden Boot, along with Liverpool duo Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah, after scoring 22 goals in England's top flight last term.
Most goals in the Premier League since Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's debut in February 2018:
Aubameyang is a proven goalscorer at his best when inside the area. He's capable of netting both scruffy and spectacular goals.
Mikel Arteta's squad isn't short of additional attacking quality, although Alexandre Lacazette has been struggling to rediscover the scoring touch since returning from injury. The Frenchman's game is also based more around hold-up play than Aubameyang's pace and ability to spin in behind.
Aubameyang, who has scored twice in three league games since Arteta took over, being able to operate on either flank also offers the Spaniard a great deal of tactical flexibility. It means the Gunners can play a front three, double up out wide and press from the front.
Young Brazilian Gabriel Martinelli can also operate both through the middle or on the wings. The 18-year-old has been thriving during his first season in England:
Things haven't gone as smoothly for Nicolas Pepe following his club-record £72-million move from Lille in the summer. However, there have been signs of life from the winger recently:
Nicolas Pépé vs. Man United
100% Pass accuracy 2/2 Accurate crosses 2/2 Accurate long passes 4 Chances created 1/2 Shots on target (hit post) 1 Goal 4/6 Dribbles completed 6/13 Ground duels won 1/2 Tackles won
Arsenal have options if Aubameyang was to move on ahead of schedule. Yet Arteta's attempts to return the club to the UEFA Champions League level would benefit more from retaining one of the best goalscorers in Europe for as long as possible.
Mikel Arteta Says He Wants Arsenal to Become Winning 'Addicts'
Jan 6, 2020
LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 01: Mikel Arteta, Manager of Arsenal gives his team instructions during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Manchester United at Emirates Stadium on January 01, 2020 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta said he wants to instil a mentality into his side that turns a winning habit into an addiction.
The Spaniard spoke ahead of the Gunners' third-round clash with Leeds United on Monday in the FA Cup, the competition in which Arsenal have enjoyed the most success in recent years.
"Winning brings togetherness. When you have beautiful experiences together and win trophies those experiences stay within the group. You like more the people you work with, you believe in them, you share some fantastic moments. That stays.
"That habit of winning, winning, winning. When you win you don't want to stop. You become addicts to that. We have to try to implement that at this football club."
The Gunners ended a nine-year trophy drought when they won the FA Cup in 2014, and they won it again the following year and in 2017, as well as all three subsequent Community Shields.
Arteta, who played for Arsenal when they won the first two of those titles, spoke of the importance of winning cup competitions when they weren't able to challenge for the Premier League.
He added that ending the dry spell, which had endured since 2005, was a "massive relief" and it brought "really good belief and unity" to the squad that helped them win further silverware.
They lost their last cup final under Arsene Wenger, though, in the 2018 Carabao Cup, and last year they lost the UEFA Europa League final under Unai Emery.
Arsenal are into the knockout phase of the Europa League again, but they're out of the Carabao Cup and are 10th in the Premier League, so the FA Cup is once again their only other hope of salvaging the domestic campaign.
Arteta has been in charge for just three games, and after a draw with Bournemouth and a defeat to Chelsea in the first two, he guided his side to an impressive 2-0 win over Manchester United on New Year's Day:
His impact on the team's intensity has already been noticeable. Even playmaker Mesut Ozil—whose work rate is often criticised—has bought into the approach:
So, Mesut Ozil huh? Arsenal pressed Manchester United a lot, and Ozil, by our numbers, was more active than anybody with 44 pressure events, narrowly edging out Lacazette's 42. pic.twitter.com/T6NT3miGZd
Arsenal blogger Tim Stillman and Football.London's James Benge have been impressed with Arteta's ability to convey his plans to both his squad and the media:
I watched Arteta’s pre-match interview on the big screen and the interviewer asked, ‘is the message to show the same intensity and effort as the Chelsea game?’ and he answered, ‘that’s the message for every game. That’s a non-negotiable.’
Been so thoroughly impressed with the way Arteta has gone about getting his message out there. Rather than recap what he said thought I’d quickly talk about how he said it.
It bodes well for their prospect of developing a winning mentality once he gets them fully up to speed in time.
The 37-year-old has seen firsthand how effective such a mentality can be from his time as an assistant to Pep Guardiola at Manchester City. During Arteta's time with the Sky Blues as a coach, the team won back-to-back Premier League titles and FA Cups as well as the Carabao Cup.
Leeds are the Championship leaders, so Monday's match won't be easy for the Gunners, but the Premier League team will hope to capitalise on the fact their opponents have won just one of their last five matches.
B/R Football Ranks: Mikel Arteta's 5 Steps to Fixing Arsenal
Jan 6, 2020
Arsenal's Spanish head coach Mikel Arteta gestures on the touchline during the English Premier League football match between Arsenal and Manchester United at the Emirates Stadium in London on January 1, 2020. (Photo by Ian KINGTON / IKIMAGES / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or 'live' services. Online in-match use limited to 45 images, no video emulation. No use in betting, games or single club/league/player publications. (Photo by IAN KINGTON/IKIMAGES/AFP via Getty Images)
It's been just over two weeks since Arsenal appointed Mikel Arteta as head coach—a decision that led to bullish extremes of opinion one way or the other.
Some immediately crowned him the next Pep Guardiola. Arteta learned in the shadow of one of football's great managers and is now ready to step forward in his own light.
Others questioned how a man with zero experience as a No. 1 could be appointed to such a position at such a high-profile club. One English newspaper called it "a huge mistake," and another said it was "a supreme gamble."
To hold either position strongly was folly. Unless you were privy to the interview process, you'd struggle to stitch together an informed opinion on Arteta the No. 1.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zQzfwmSd3Gk
Inferring based on involvement in Guardiola's reign at Manchester City gets you only so far; writing him off completely based on a lack of experience dismisses examples like Guardiola himself, whose only managerial stint prior to taking the Barcelona job was with Barca's B side in the fourth tier of Spanish football.
Judgement of Arteta should come based on his work as head coach, and although we're not long into that journey—three games, to be precise—there are already clear signs of what he is attempting to enact at the Emirates Stadium.
You can't expect to see the full picture during that time span, but we have seen hints as to what he's thinking. He's made a quick start on the steps required to fix Arsenal and launch them back up the Premier League table.
Here, we'll lay out those five steps, checking in on the progress he's made so far for each one along the way.
1. Coherent On-the-Ball Strategy
Arsenal's Spanish head coach Mikel Arteta (R) embraces Arsenal's German midfielder Mesut Ozil (L) on the pitch after the English Premier League football match between Arsenal and Manchester United at the Emirates Stadium in London on January 1, 2020. - Ar
Arsenal have played a 4-2-3-1 formation in all three of Arteta's games. The personnel has been tweaked game to game, but the shape has remained throughout.
That may not sound like it's worth lauding, but it's the sort of consistency Arsenal have lacked for the last 18 months, as Unai Emery constantly fiddled with and tweaked his formation—and not even on a game-by-game basis, more like a half-by-half basis or even every 30 minutes.
Being tactically reactive and willing to change is good. However, Emery took it to such an extreme that it's no wonder the players often looked unsure as to what to do, where they were playing and which positions they should be taking up. If they won a game, it was largely because they had more individual quality than the opposition, and that can trump all.
Arteta is the complete opposite; so far, every player's role has been clearly defined and coached to a degree on the training pitch.
The Spaniard has drawn from Guardiola's style to a point: We're seeing one full-back (Sead Kolasinac or Bukayo Saka) run the flank and stay wide while the other tucks into midfield to balance the formation (Ainsley Maitland-Niles).
LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 01: Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang of Arsenal during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Manchester United at Emirates Stadium on January 1, 2020 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by James Williamson - AMA/Getty Images)
With the left-back operating high up, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang plays a nominal left-wing role but ducks inside frequently, driving into the box or in the centre. On the other side, the right-winger starts wide but cuts in to create balance.
Just as important to this is the use of a central midfielder operating in the left-half space (the vertical channel between the flank and the centre of the pitch), and Mesut Ozil operating in the right half-space. In conjunction with Maitland-Niles and Lucas Torreira, they give Arsenal presence in the centre and play an important role off the ball.
If Arteta is successful, Arsenal won't always operate in this fashion; he'll have to switch things up at times, just as Guardiola does (for example, he recently moved to a back three to better support Gabriel Jesus and Joao Cancelo).
But he's working off an established blueprint he can communicate clearly to his players—something you may argue hasn't happened at the Emirates in years.
2. Coherent Off-the-Ball Strategy
Manchester United's French striker Anthony Martial (R) vies with Arsenal's German midfielder Mesut Ozil (2nd R) ans Arsenal's English midfielder Ainsley Maitland-Niles (L) during the English Premier League football match between Arsenal and Manchester Uni
The last days of Emery's reign at Arsenal lacked in many ways, but the most alarming part was how vulnerable and error-prone the team were at the back.
Some of this was put down to personnel: Hector Bellerin was not long back from long-term injury, David Luiz's defending has long been questionable, Kolasinac doesn't call it his strength either and Sokratis Papastathopoulos' level dropped in tune with his colleagues.
But it was clear the major issue was how incredibly easy it was to play through Arsenal; their midfield, in transition, was non-existent.
Too often you'd see Granit Xhaka and/or Matteo Guendouzi struggling (or just jogging) back as opponents counter-attacked at speed. They had no positional nous to disrupt it, no recovery speed to catch up and no strategy further up to prevent these situations from even happening.
LONDON, ENGLAND - AUGUST 11: (L-R) Granit Xhaka and Nacho Monreal of Arsenal look on after conceding a second first half goal during the Premier League match between Arsenal and Leicester City at the Emirates Stadium on August 11, 2017 in London, England
That's one of the first things Arteta has changed.
Arsenal's off-the-ball structure is much better now; the forward, midfield and defensive lines are much closer together, moving in coordination, reducing space between the lines for opponents to use and squeezing upward to press.
They're also suddenly so much more cynical in their fouling high up; they're replicating Guardiola's teams in that sense to prevent counters by chopping people down before they can hurt them.
Nothing illustrates that better than the sight of Ozil pressing and harrying, but the spike in duel numbers in Arteta's first three games compared to Freddie Ljungberg and Emery's last three tells a story—212 compared to 164 and 191, respectively, per Wyscout.com).
3. Steadily Integrate Gabriel Martinelli
LONDON, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 09: Gabriel Martinelli of Arsenal FC celebrates after scoring a goal during the Premier League match between West Ham United and Arsenal FC at London Stadium on December 9, 2019 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Sebastian Fre
We've seen 16 different players take to the pitch through Arteta's first three games; that figure includes seven attackers, and two more—Emile Smith Rowe and Tyreece John-Jules—have been featured on the bench.
Between them, they offer a plethora of options, styles and fits. From Ozil's languid grace to Reiss Nelson's more instinctive, direct way, Arteta can game-plan according to the opponent.
And yet, even with those options cycled through, we haven't yet seen the youngster who probably profiles the best under Arteta: Gabriel Martinelli. Injury has put him on the back foot in the race to impress early for the new boss, but that shouldn't concern him.
For an 18-year-old who has just moved continents, he's been remarkably good. Three goals and two assists in 351 UEFA Europa League minutes shows how productive he's been when given the chance. He's made a splash in the league, too, netting against West Ham United and teasing in the cross for Alexandre Lacazette that earned Arsenal a point against Southampton.
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 21: Djibril Sidibe of Everton tackles Gabriel Martinelli of Arsenal during the Premier League match between Everton FC and Arsenal FC at Goodison Park on December 21, 2019 in Liverpool, United Kingdom. (Photo by Alex Livesey
He's a player who always seems to create, score or cause trouble for defences. When he's on the pitch, no matter where he's playing, he's the epicentre of the attack. And he looks set to be a key piece in Arsenal's puzzle moving forward.
Arteta doesn't have to move mountains to incorporate him immediately, but over the course of 2020, he must settle on what role Martinelli will play for him. And therein lies the difficulty. In order to do so, the Spaniard will have to make a difficult decision regarding one of his four major attackers: Ozil, Aubameyang, Lacazette and Nicolas Pepe. You can't play all five, so one has to make way.
How that shakes out is anyone's guess, though early evidence suggests Lacazette may end up the odd one out—he's slowing play down too much, and his fitness levels, which have always been a question mark, may not suit the intensity of Arteta's game plan in the long term.
It's one to watch for the year.
4. Buy a Centre-Back
LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 01: David Luiz of Arsenal during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Manchester United at Emirates Stadium on January 01, 2020 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Visionhaus)
On the B/R Football Ranks podcast, Dean Jones confirmed Arsenal are in the market for a new centre-back. Dayot Upamecano is the name at the top of the shortlist, though the likelihood of coaxing him away from RB Leipzig in the middle of a potentially sensational campaign for them is slim.
But at least the intentions are right: Arsenal know one of their greatest needs is a central defender and Upamecano—a player who has dramatically improved this term under Julian Nagelsmann's tutelage—is a fair target.
Arsenal fans were heartened by the showing Luiz produced in the 2-0 win over Manchester United. It was a commanding, dominant performance that belied his usual, more vulnerable image. Some were quick to point out in turn that he often does this for a new manager...before reverting to the norm.
It's realistic to presume Sokratis re-finds his 2018-19 levels, but not that 32-year-old Luiz suddenly becomes a reliable defender. With Calum Chambers out for the season with a ruptured ACL and Rob Holding only just returning from the same injury, a clear need has become a pressing one—particularly if the lack of faith in Shkodran Mustafi persists.
Arteta, technical director Edu and head of football Raul Sanllehi must get their heads together and solve a problem position.
5. Buy a Defensive Midfielder
LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 01: Granit Xhaka of Arsenal reacts during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Manchester United at Emirates Stadium on January 1, 2020 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by James Williamson - AMA/Getty Images)
While some will suggest centre-back is Arsenal's biggest need in the transfer window, others could argue it's actually defensive midfielder.
Xhaka's early performances under Arteta have been promising, and the way Lucas Torreira is being used right now offers hope, but a reliable, holding presence in the centre is something the Gunners have lacked for a long time—Gilberto Silva was the last great one, Alex Song the last genuinely good one.
As Arsenal look at ways to gain on their rivals, they'll compare their own central midfield stock to the likes of Liverpool's, Manchester City's and even Leicester City's. And they can't claim to have a player like Fabinho, Fernandinho, Rodri or Wilfred Ndidi.
So they'll need to find their own. He needs to be a Fernandinho-esque blend of tactical nous, aggression, athleticism and prowess in possession. It's not easy to find, and it's not as simple as seeking out players who rack up tackles with ease.
Again, Arteta, Edu and Sanllehi will need to team up here, with the manager likely heavily involved in choosing the mould of player picked up.
All statistics via WhoScored.com unless noted otherwise.
Mikel Arteta: Arsenal Need Captaincy 'Stability' from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang
Jan 5, 2020
Arsenal's Spanish head coach Mikel Arteta (R) speaks with Arsenal's Gabonese striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (L) during the English Premier League football match between Arsenal and Manchester United at the Emirates Stadium in London on January 1, 2020. (Photo by Ian KINGTON / IKIMAGES / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or 'live' services. Online in-match use limited to 45 images, no video emulation. No use in betting, games or single club/league/player publications. (Photo by IAN KINGTON/IKIMAGES/AFP via Getty Images)
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has said he wants "stability" from his captain amid continued speculation regarding Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's future.
The striker was named as skipper by former manager Unai Emery earlier in the campaign, with previous incumbent Granit Xhaka stripped of the role after he reacted angrily to fans after being substituted.
While Aubameyang has excelled this term and appears to be relishing the extra responsibility that comes with the armband, there have been rumours he could leave at the end of the season. Speaking about the captaincy, Arteta said he wants it to be someone he can depend on for a while, per Aaron Flanagan of the Daily Mirror:
"At the moment, I think everything is okay. It’s not the time for me to change things in place now because I haven’t seen the real things to make those decisions.
"But the more stability we generate with our captain—and players in the squad—the more clarity we’re going to have to transmit to the fans what we’re trying to do."
Xhaka was named as the Arsenal captain in September following the sale of Laurent Koscielny. However, his infamous reaction to the Emirates Stadium crowd when he was brought off in the game against Crystal Palace prompted a change of mind:
Not a great afternoon for Granit Xhaka...
The Arsenal captain was jeered by his own fans as he was substituted, before reportedly swearing at the crowd and rejecting a handshake from Unai Emery! 😳
Aubameyang was named as his successor, having cemented his status as a key player at the club following his transfer from Borussia Dortmund in January 2018.
The Gabon international has thrived in the role and offered his support to his predecessor in his first programme notes as captain:
In Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's first captain's notes he says: "I understand that one can make mistakes. It happens to all of us. Granit is one of us. We are all here for him and I know how mentally strong he is... We need to move forward now all together."
However, there has been growing speculation that this season may be Aubameyang's last as an Arsenal player.
It was recently reported by Matt Law of the Daily Telegraph that Arteta was facing a struggle to keep the forward at the Emirates Stadium, as he wants to play in the UEFA Champions League next term. Even after their win over Manchester United on Wednesday, the Gunners are in 10th in the Premier League table.
Speaking about his situation recently, Aubameyang was coy. "The English press likes to talk a lot," he told RMC (h/t Metro). "For now, I'm here. I'm 100 per cent here."
If the striker were to leave Arsenal, it's not just his leadership skills they would miss. As Sky Sports Statto demonstrated, he's one of the best goalscorers around:
Most goals for English clubs in all competitions since the start of last season:
4⃣6⃣ Sergio Aguero 4⃣6⃣ Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang 4⃣5⃣ Raheem Sterling 4⃣1⃣ JAMES NORWOOD 4⃣1⃣ Harry Kane pic.twitter.com/MT9gv8ZVe5
Arteta has clearly been brought in with a long-term view in mind, and while he will be keen to turn around the team's form quickly, you sense he will already be formulating plans for the future at the Emirates.
Given his apparent desire to move on, it's unclear whether Aubameyang will be part of that vision beyond May. Arteta may consequently be monitoring his squad for a candidate to take over as the leader of the team.
Arsenal vs. Leeds United: FA Cup 2020 Odds, Live Stream, TV Schedule
Jan 5, 2020
LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 01: Mikel Arteta the manager / head coach of Arsenal celebrates with his side at full time of the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Manchester United at Emirates Stadium on January 1, 2020 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by James Williamson - AMA/Getty Images)
Arsenal will be out to build on the positive mood around the club when they host Leeds United in one of the standout FA Cup third-round contests on Monday.
The Gunners have been much improved since Mikel Arteta took charge, with the former midfielder earning his first win as manager in a 2-0 victory over Manchester United on Wednesday. It will be intriguing to see how much stock he places in the cup competitions in his first season.
Leeds are having a memorable campaign, as they sit top of the Championship. Under Marcelo Bielsa, they play an open and entertaining brand of football and are unlikely to alter that approach at the Emirates Stadium, which should make for a fascinating encounter.
For Arteta, there would have been a sense of huge relief at the end of Arsenal's win over United on New Year's Day.
Having watched his team play well but lose late on against Chelsea, the Gunners were able to see out the win against their tepid opponents, with Nicolas Pepe and Sokratis Papastathopoulos on the scoresheet:
Afterwards, Arteta commented on what was a galvanising night for the team and the supporters:
💬 "I am so happy that I turned around in the stadium. I saw smiley faces, I saw energy, I saw people standing and that's what I want."
Per Charles Watts of Goal, it was a perfect eveningfor those associated with Arsenal:
Such a great night tonight after so many demoralising home games. The performance, the energy, the atmosphere, the connection. It was all there. No mass exodus before full-time. Fans staying long after the final whistle to cheer the players off. Great to see. pic.twitter.com/4COaNJSGYb
Even with that win, the Gunners are only 10th in the Premier League and nine points behind Chelsea in fourth. It means securing UEFA Champions League football for next season will be an uphill task.
As a result, Arsenal may prioritise the cup competitions a little more than they would have done in previous years. A home tie against a Championship team gives them an excellent chance to progress into the fourth round too.
Leeds are unlikely to be a soft touch, though, as they have been one of two standout sides in the second tier this season; they drew with joint-leaders West Bromwich Albion on Wednesday, with Patrick Bamford's header deflecting in off Semi Ajayi to give them a crucial equaliser:
Ajayi has now scored for both sides, Patrick Bamford's header hits the West Brom man and it trickles into the net! ⚽
Bielsa's side have responded well in 2019-20 after losing in the playoffs last season. With the experience of that heartache, they appear better equipped to tackle what promises to be an intriguing run-in.
One player who has drawn plenty of focus in the buildup to this game is Eddie Nketiah, who spent the first half of the season on loan at Leeds from Arsenal before being recalled on Wednesday.
Arteta explained the thinking behind the Gunners' decision to bring back the 20-year-old:
Arteta on Nketiah: "The environment he's been in has improved him as a player, 100 per cent. He played minutes, not as much as we wanted, but he's a kid with incredible potential and we have to make a decision for the club, not for the next four months but for his career." #lufc
The striker could feasibly be involved on Monday for Arsenal, especially if Arteta opts to make a number of changes to his starting XI.
You suspect there won't be huge rotation, though, as he will be keen to build more confidence after his first win. With Leeds also likely to prioritise their promotion push, the Premier League team should be too good on the night.
Prediction: Arsenal 3-1 Leeds
Arsenal Boss Mikel Arteta Praises Alexandre Lacazette Amid Goalscoring Struggles
Jan 3, 2020
LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 01: Alexandre Lacazette of Arsenal during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Manchester United at Emirates Stadium on January 1, 2020 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by James Williamson - AMA/Getty Images)
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has backed Alexandre Lacazette to start finding the back of the net again soon and has hinted a rest might be beneficial for the France international.
Since arriving at the Emirates Stadium in the summer of 2017, Lacazette has been one of the best forwards in the Premier League. However, this term has been a struggle for him, with just five goals scored in the top flight.
One of Arteta's main tasks as manager will be getting Lacazette into a ruthless mood in front of goal, and he's said one strike might be enough to turn around the 28-year-old's fortunes, per James Olley of the Evening Standard:
"He had the chances to put away [against United]. He has been really helpful in giving us a lot of options. He makes his team-mates better, that’s one of the biggest qualities.
"As well, every time he is in front of goal normally he is so clinical. I am disappointed that he hasn’t been rewarded with all the work he has done in the last three games because he could have scored three or four goals easily. But the goal will come for him naturally because he is a natural finisher.
"Does he just need one to go in anyhow? Exactly. And maybe a little bit fresher legs will help as well.”
Lacazette started at the point of the attack on Wednesday in the Gunners' 2-0 win over Manchester United:
Although he wasn't on the scoresheet in that encounter, the former Lyon man offered a reminder of the quality he can bring to a team.
Lacazette's movement in the final third and link play was key to the Gunners pinning back the Red Devils, with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Mesut Ozil and Nicolas Pepe benefitting from some selfless play from the Frenchman.
Per Sam Dean of the Daily Telegraph, it was the first time that Arsenal's four high-profile attacking stars have lined up in the same side.
It's only taken five months and three managers but Aubameyang, Lacazette, Ozil and Pepe are all starting the same game for the first time tonight #AFC
At his best last season, Lacazette was frequently lauded for his all-round game, although he was also a prolific finisher, scoring 19 times in all competitions.
Since his arrival at the Emirates Stadium, Arteta appears to have triggered more belief in a number of key players, with Ozil and Pepe particularly impressive against the Red Devils after otherwise indifferent seasons.
Lacazette's return won't represent a major concern for the team yet, as they have one of the best goalscorers in the game on their books in Aubameyang. However, if the Arsenal No. 9 can find his shooting boots in 2020, then the Gunners will make rapid progress up the Premier League table.
Mikel Arteta Talks Arsenal's 'Obligation' Ahead of the January Transfer Window
Jan 2, 2020
LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 01: Mikel Arteta, Manager of Arsenal gives his team instructions during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Manchester United at Emirates Stadium on January 01, 2020 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
Mikel Arteta has said Arsenal are duty-bound to run the rule over every possibility available to improve talent in the squad during the January transfer window.
The Gunners chief spoke ahead of Monday's FA Cup third-round tie against Leeds United, per James Benge of Football.London: "We're going to try to be in the market to see options that can strengthen the team. That's for sure. That's our obligation. We're going to be working on that. My obligation is to give my opinion on the things I think we can improve."
However, while Arteta admitted Arsenal will consider finding help from outside sources, he also said he's keeping his focus on working with what he has: "I'm more concerned at the moment to get people back from injuries than signings and try to improve the players we have here, get everybody on board with what we're trying to do. If something extra comes up and we think it's the right opportunity let's do it."
Injuries are a sensible place to start when considering what Arsenal may or may not do during the winter window. Arteta referenced the case of Calum Chambers, the centre-back who was withdrawn during Sunday's 2-1 defeat at home to Chelsea.
Arsenal have since confirmed 24-year-old Chambers is set for an extended spell on the treatment table. He will need "six to nine months" to recover from knee surgery, per the club's official website.
Being without Chambers' athleticism at the heart of the back four weakens an already suspect defence. However, Arteta can rightly feel confident about the options he has after incumbents like David Luiz have shown improvement.
Luiz and fellow central defender Sokratis Papastathopoulos both excelled during the 2-0 win over Manchester United on New Year's Day. Along with Rob Holding and Konstantinos Mavropanos, they offer Arteta a decent amount of choices for how to deploy his personnel at the back.
Sokratis looks like Sokratis again. Absolutely thundering around the pitch, imposing himself on the forwards. Not perfect but much more like himself. You could say that for so many players so far.
It's a similar story in midfield, where Lucas Torreira is playing up to his talent since Arteta reinstalled him into a more natural holding role. Meanwhile, mercurial No. 10 Mesut Ozil is working harder on the watch of his former team-mate.
Yet Arsenal's midfield suddenly seems amply stocked because of how well Xhaka has responded since Arteta became manager. The Switzerland international has been heavily linked with a move to Hertha Berlin, according to Gary Jacob of The Times (subscription required).
Even so, Arteta has been consistent about saying he wants the pass-master to stay:
"I had a conversation with him, I wanted to understand his feelings" 👌
Mikel Arteta explains how he managed to win over Granit Xhaka, with the Swiss midfielder now set to stay at @Arsenal this month 🤜🤛 pic.twitter.com/PA6umYaJxN
With Xhaka, Torreira and Ozil in the middle, backed up by Matteo Guendouzi and Joe Willock, Arteta has enough central midfielders. It's a similar story up front, especially after the Gunners opted to recall Eddie Nketiah from his loan deal with Leeds.
The 20-year-old striker confirmed his return to north London on Wednesday:
Unfortunately my time @LUFC has come to an end. It’s been an amazing experience and a privilege to play for such an amazing club. I would like to say a big thank you to my teammates, the coaching staff and the manager for making my time here an enjoyable one. 1/2 pic.twitter.com/IgQNfkOWn5
Lastly, a big thank you to all the wonderful fans for taking to me so quickly. I wish the club all the best and I’m sure you’ll get to the promised land. #MOT@LUFC ⚽️🙏🏾 2/2 pic.twitter.com/6hEWZS2f3i
Nketiah could join Alexandre Lacazette and Gabriel Martinelli as players who can operate through the middle for Arsenal.
It also helps Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang told RMC Sport (h/t Alex Harris of the Daily Star) he is "100 percent here" in response to rumours linking him with Barcelona and Inter Milan. For his part, Arteta has said he doesn't "even think about the possibility" of Aubameyang moving on, per Benge.
The Gunners aren't short of strikers, playmakers in the middle or centre-backs. One area Arteta could strengthen is on the flanks, where academy graduates Bukayo Saka and Reiss Nelson have tried to support inconsistent club-record buy Nicolas Pepe so far this season.
However, Pepe's superb display against United offered hope the ex-Lille star is likely to come good:
Nicolas Pépé's game by numbers vs. Man Utd:
100% pass accuracy 100% passes in opp.half 50 touches 16 total duels 6 recoveries 4 take-ons completed 4 chances created 2 aerials won 2 shots 1 goal
If so, Arteta won't need to rush into the market for another versatile forward who can operate on either wing. Instead, the 37-year-old will be free to continue implementing his philosophy and tactics among the experienced group of players he's already working with.
After collecting four points from three games, there are signs Arteta's actions on the training pitch will be more beneficial than anything Arsenal do in the market during this month.
Arsenal Defender Calum Chambers out for '6 to 9 Months' with Ruptured ACL Injury
Jan 2, 2020
Arsenal's English defender Calum Chambers (C) is helped off the pitch with an injury during the English Premier League football match between Arsenal and Chelsea at the Emirates Stadium in London on December 29, 2019. (Photo by Adrian DENNIS / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or 'live' services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No video emulation. Social media in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No use in betting publications, games or single club/league/player publications. / (Photo by ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP via Getty Images)
Arsenalannounced on Thursday that defender Calum Chambers has been ruled out for "six to nine months" with a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee.
The defender picked up the injury in Arsenal's 2-1 Premier League defeat to Chelsea on Sunday and has now undergone surgery which will rule him out of the rest of the 2019-20 season:
"Calum has had successful surgery in London on Thursday morning. The rehabilitation process is expected to take between six to nine months. Everyone at the club will be supporting Calum to ensure he is back on the pitch as soon as possible."
The injury is a blow to the Gunners as Chambers has been in good form for the club this season and had been one of the club's strongest performers in a disappointing campaign:
Calum Chambers’ game by numbers vs. Everton:
95 touches 89% pass accuracy 78 passes 7/8 aerial duels won 7 clearances 3 tackles 2 interceptions 1 chance created
Arsenal also confirmed Chambers will be joined on the sidelines by left-back Kieran Tierney. The Scot is out for three months after undergoing surgery on a dislocated right shoulder.
The injuries mean Arsenal are short of options in defence and could look to bring in reinforcements during the January transfer window.
Manager Mikel Arteta told reporters on Thursday that Chambers' injury may impact their transfer plans, but he does not seem to be expecting a busy window, per James Olley at the Evening Standard:
Arteta on Chambers injury & transfers: "That's obviously going to change our plans at the back but the reality at the moment is we are not going to be able to do much. I’m more concerned to get people back from injuries than signings & try to improve the players that I have."
RB Leipzig's 21-year-old defender Dayot Upamecano is a target for Arsenal and could replace Chambers, according to John Cross at the Mirror.
The Gunners are also considering recalling William Saliba from a loan spell with Saint-Etienne, per Liam Prenderville at the Mirror. Arsenal signed Saliba in the summer from the Ligue 1 side but agreed to loan him back for 2019-20.
