The transfer window closed yesterday and, as expected, there weren’t any more signings by Arsenal. So this is the squad we are stuck with, until January at least. Since Arsenal news is likely to be thin over the next week due to the international games, it might be a good time to have a look at our squad and see how it is shaping up for the season ahead.
First up, the goalkeepers and defence.
I don’t think anyone would argue that Manuel Almunia hasn’t improved vastly since being promoted to number one. However there were many over the summer who felt that this was an area that could have been improved but I’m not so sure. Don’t get me wrong, there are better goalkeepers in the world than Manuel but to buy a real top class goalkeeper would have cost a fortune and as this isn’t a priority for Wenger we are stuck with Manuel for another season. I feel he’s a good shot stopper but my only concern is in big games, as we saw over the weekend against Man Utd, Manuel has a tendency to make the wrong decision about coming off his line. Still, he continues to improve and I feel reasonably confident about another season with Manuel as our number one. As for back up I feel we could do slightly better, with perhaps a more experienced reserve goalie, but success can come down to luck and how often we need to call on our back up in this position. Fabianski showed last season that he still has a lot to learn so let’s hope Manuel stays fit.
Bacary Sagna was going to have a hard time replicating his excellent first season form and I think it’s fair to say last season was slightly below his best. Despite this he remains one of the best in the league but I would like to see him improve his crossing to go with his solid defensive play. Emmanuel Eboue, if used as 2nd choice right back is more than capable cover and I feel this is his best position.
Gael Clichy also slightly dipped below his best last year. A few mistakes seem to stay with him and he struggled to recapture his best form. Despite this, he also remains among the best in his position in the league, and hopefully he can get back to his best this season. We seem spoilt in this department with Kieran Gibbs and Armand Traore providing decent cover for
William Gallas has started this season as he ended the last; in great form. Since his outburst and subsequently losing the captaincy he seems to have a point to prove. As a result his form has been tremendous and long may it continue. At this rate perhaps even a new contract may be on the cards.
His new central defensive partner Thomas Vermaelen has started his Arsenal career well and looks a great buy. He seems to compliment Gallas well and while is not the tallest he seems to make up for it with his positioning. He had a good game against Man Utd, which was his first big test, and hopefully he can keep it up.
We have three, maybe four, who can cover here. Johan Djourou, injured at the start of the season, really needs a good season if he is to make the grade at Arsenal but may find chances limited.
Philippe Senderos looked like he was on his way to Everton about a month ago and it is not clear if we were unable to line up a replacement or Everton got cold feet but Philippe remains an Arsenal player for now. I like Senderos and it would be great if he could push for a first team spot but can’t help thinking he is more suited to a slower league such as Serie A.
Mikael Silvestre also provides cover here, and at left back if needed, but I think the less said about him the better.
Alex Song, interestingly listed under defenders on Arsenal.com, can also provide cover here but with our lack of defensive midfielders I wouldn’t expect to see him play many games at centre back, despite looking comfortable on most occasions when asked to play here.
Tomorrow I’ll go through the midfield.
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