10 Things We Learned About Arsenal from FA Community Shield Win over Chelsea

4. Aaron Ramsey has to stay in the center of the pitch

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This 4-3-3 formation was an odd one, mainly because Arsenal had five central midfielders in their front six, yet three of those five had to occupy the wings. Ramsey got the start next to Coquelin, and while he was supposed to be aligned to the right side of the pitch, with Coquelin in the middle, it still often formed into the classic 4-2-3-1 that Arsenal used last year.

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Slotted next to Coquelin, Ramsey is class. He was in control, creating attacks and finding space. He had the second most touches on the team, the second most key passes, and a solid 84% pass completion (WhoScored.com).

But it was not just his offense and possession that was impressive. Ramsey is a box-to-box midfielder, and around Arsenal’s box, in defense, he was just as impressive if not more so. The Welshman led the team in tackles and led all of the midfield in clearances, indicating that his defensive contribution was just as crucial, if not moreso, than the Flying Coq.

It has come the time for Ramsey to be the front runner for the position next to Coquelin, even with Cazorla shining as well.

Next: Number 3