Why Arsenal should sign a defensive midfielder despite the rise of Francis Coquelin
Arsenal have been happy with their recent surge in form especially that of their young central midfielder Francis Coquelin. With a morale boosting win over Manchester City and a strong performance by Coquelin, their defensive midfield seems to have finally found some sting. But as Arsenal go in search of tactical football and more silverware after last season’s FA Cup success, there arises a need for world class players and tactics that are dominant. Arsenal still require a defensive midfielder to improve their team.
- Coquelin is still raw
These past few games have seen Francis at his best but we mustn’t forget that he is still raw and inexperienced. Using him as a surprise inclusion for these past few game has helped Arsenal use the power of an unknown entity in the middle of the park who Man City couldn’t read. But as the season progresses, a player like Coquelin would be studied and countered by most teams. He mustn’t be put under the pressure of playing this role without having any competition for the spot. Arsenal can be left without options if Coquelin gets countered or looses form.
- A top quality defensive midfielder would improve Arsenal’s style of play
Coquelin is doing a good job now, but he is still not ready to be given the mantle of a top team like Arsenal. A season as a regular substitute from now on, or as a partner to a top midfielder next to him would make Arsenal a solid team. The over-dependency on certain players can force Arsenal into a late season slump, which they don’t want to undergo, because usually Arsenal have always been quality during the end part of the season. Getting a star holding midfielder would only boost that likelihood of getting into the top four spot.
- Arsenal can rest Ramsey and be comfortable without Arteta and Wilshere
We have all noticed how well Santi Cazorla is playing at central midfield. But we have also seen how brilliant he was in his first season as an attacking midfielder. So there is no reason for a slump in form if Cazorla is played a bit further forward with two central midfielders. Now Aaron Ramsey hasn’t been showing his last season form this season, and has been inconsistent yet an important part of Arsenal’s midfield. Coquelin, Ramsey, Flamini are currently the fit three players who are most comfortable playing the central midfield role. Adding a defensive midfielder, a specialist in doing the dirty job and a good passer, would be a sure upgrade on Flamini and allow the manager two other players- Coquelin and Ramsey for rotation. Arsenal would have a much more balanced squad if they play Ramsey in the league and Coquelin as a sub and in the Cup games while maintaining a 4-2-3-1 with Cazorla leading the attacking midfield. Ozil’s return would only be a boost for the team as he takes his time to settle down and would conveniently play the role of a back up for Cazorla until he’s fully fit. A top defensive midfielder would also help Ozil get his passing rhythm and control intact over the game.