| Players | Matches | Assists | Chances Created | Tackles Won | Total Duels % |
| Nemanja Matic | 27 | 2 | 20 | 76 | 49.59% |
| Francis Coquelin | 15 | 0 | 3 | 44 | 59.90% |
Francis Coquelin was recalled by Arsene Wenger from his loan tenure with Charlton Athletic in December as a cover for the injured Aaron Ramsey. The French midfielder joined Arsenal way back in 2008 from Stade Lavallois. The then teenager was sent out on loan by Wenger to gain experience before joining the North London giants permanently. Since 2008, he has played for three different clubs which includes Lorient, SC Freiburg and Charlton Athletic.
Since his arrival at the club in December, Francis Coquelin has been a regular member of the Arsenal starting line up. He has performed exceptionally well for the club and has provided enough assurance to Wenger regarding the defensive midfield position. Arsenal for a long time lacked a quality defensive midfielder, who could play a pivotal role in the middle of the pitch.
Mikel Arteta has grown old and he no more plays the game with similar intensity and speed. Last summer rumours circulated that Wenger may spend heavy to rope in a quality recruit in the same position. Sami Khedira was in consideration but as it is believed his wage expectation was extremely high. After Coquelin’s arrival Arsene Wenger’s troubles regarding a defensive midfielder has finally ended.
Today we look at a statistical comparison between Arsenal’s Francis Coquelin with Chelsea’s Nemanja Matic.
Nemanja Matic of course has played more matches than Francis Coquelin as the French youngster joined Arsenal mid December.
The Serbian midfielder is one of the best players in his position in the world right now. He has been an integral part of the Chelsea squad under Jose Mourinho since joining the club last December. His robust appearance adds an aura to The Blues’ midfield. His creativity is all impressive.
In 27 Premier League games this season, Nemanja Matic has provided just 2 assists, created 20 goal scoring chances, won 76 tackles in the midfield. The Serb has successfully won 49.59% duels which is an exceptional feat. His performance truly reflects his ability as a defensive midfielder. Alongside Cesc Fabregas, he has formed formidable midfield duo for Chelsea this season.
Now, if we concentrate on Francis Coquelin’s stats, we will find that the 23-year-old midfielder has done an impressive job so far and has an extremely bright future ahead. In 15 Premier League games, Coquelin has won 44 tackles, created 3 chances and successfully converted 59.90% midfield duels, which is extremely high. Only negative point about Coquelin in this season is that he has not assisted a single time.
Statistically Nemanja Matic has a slightly better record in the Premier League this season than Francis Coquelin owing to his experience in the league. The French midfielder is a terrific prospect in Arsenal colours and he might be the permanent solution to Wenger’s problems regarding a defensive midfielder.
Stats via Squawka