Is This Arsenal’s Best XI?

Not a difficult job is it? Arsene Wenger doesn’t rotate his squad frequently nor does he changes his formation. So all you need is to put Ozil in the middle of the park and forget about everyone else.  The International break came at the very wrong time as the Arsenal fans will have to wait until September 14th to see their £42.5 Million star in action.

Yet, we will give it a shot to select Arsenal’s best XI (when all the players are fit, yes even Diaby) that should be fielded this season.

Goal keeper:

Szczesny – He still remains Arsenal’s no 1 choice despite the foray of errors. The polish lad is a decent shot-stopper and has some good reflexes that an Arsenal goalkeeper should possess, but his major problem is his lack of maturity (was fully on display at the Aston Villa game). Although Emilio Viviano’s arrival gives a competition, expect Szczesny to start.

Defenders:

Gibbs – Monreal and Gibbs are not miles apart when it comes to defensive skills, but having the Premier League experience Gibbs will surely get a nod. Given the England International’s medical history and Wenger’s tendency to bring in an additional defender late in the game, Monreal may not be left out much.

Koscielny – From second division French football to Arsenal’s bed rock at the back line, Koscielny has come a long way since. The French man’s only problem is to get his fair share of red cards and if tries to put a check on that, he can be one of the best Centre back’s in the league.

Vermaelen – Yes Vermaelen. A fit again Vermaelen on top of his game is the best bet for the Gunners. Remember the time he was called the Verminator? If he improves his fitness and show improvement in his performances, the Belgian will once again boss the EPL strikers.

Sagna – Definitely not the best, but Arsenal don’t have much options than to stick with the long serving French man as I feel Jenkinson is still a season away from regular first team action

Midfielders:

Aaron Ramsey – Can we get enough of this Welsh man? Ramsey has been brilliant at the start of this game and continuing from where he left last season. The midfielder has been on of the most improved Arsenal player over the last 12 months and expect big things from him this term.

Jack Wilshere – Yes to play alongside Ramsey in the centre of the field. Although injuries take a major toll out of the England International, when fit he should be allowed to start ahead of Mikel Arteta. (Again it all depends on whom Wenger decides to use in front of him)

Attackers:

Mesut Ozil – Finally a world class player after Fabregas to don the Arsenal midfield role. The attacking midfielder role just behind Giroud is where Ozil should be deployed.

Santi Cazorla – The Spaniard prefers to play more centrally but has no other option than to play down the left flank. However his tendency to drift inside may allow Ozil to go outside and the two midfielders will probably have more of a free role.

Theo Walcott – Long term injury to the OX means, there is no real threat for Walcott who will take up his customary role in the right hand side. The winger had his best season in an Arsenal shirt last season and with Ozil in the team to serve him, expect the numbers to go up this term.

Strikers:

Olivier Giroud – The French man had a decent outing last time around, but the start of this year’s campaign has been more than impressive. If he continues to work hard, Giroud can be a decent threat.

So are we done? This is what I feel the best XI should be. Feel free to share your thoughts.