As I write this, Arsenal are to yet to take on Bayern Munich in the last sixteen of the Champions League at the Emirates on Wednesday night. Arsenal will go into the game with French man Mathieu Flamini and Jack Wilshere to try and stop the Bavarians in the middle of the park as the Gunners are without their vice-captain and Spanish midfielder Mikel Arteta due to suspension.
This might just be a blessing in disguise for the Gunners as the former Everton midfielder hasn’t really been up to his level and has been quite susceptible in the middle of the park, losing possession or giving away cheap free kicks with his poor tackling and lack of pace. Arteta’s football has taken him around Europe’s top and rich tapestry of football echelons – Barcelona, PSG, Rangers, Real Sociedad and then Everton. He was brought to replace the Cesc Fabregas sized hole at Arsenal, but given recent performances Wenger will be looking to bring replacements in the summer. We here at Soccersouls provide the options.
1. Blaise Matuidi:
The Frenchman has already captured the imagination of major clubs all across Europe who have been impressed by powerful displays in the middle of the park. Even though he is considered as a defensive midfielder, he is more like a box-to-box player who will join in attacks too. He is physically strong, has decent dribbling skills, good pace and passing vision. His shooting is also not bad for a DM. He may not have the ability to read the game like Arteta but still he would fit perfectly in Arsenal colors.