Arsenal Vs Olympiakos: 5 Things We Learned

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1. Olivier Giroud Is Arsenal’s Key Player

Hear me out. Mesut Ozil is superb and he has been carrying the team in spite of Giroud, granted. Aaron Ramsey has returned with a vengeance, granted. But without Olivier Giroud, what would Arsenal have? They would have a bunch of molar teeth without a canine tooth. They could slowly grind the weaker defenses but they would not be able to pierce those stout defenses.

Every attack needs a spearhead. Someone who can thrive in the box and turn the ball on net. Ozil, Ramsey, Campbell, even Walcott cannot do that with consistency. They are tertiary characters. Only Giroud fits the bill. If Giroud were to get hurt, I fear for this club more than if Ozil were to get hurt. While no one on Arsenal can do what Ozil is doing, there are others on the club that do the same sort of thing. Ramsey can, for starters. Again, would he be as effective? No. But he would still contribute the same sort of things.

Next: Arsenal's All-Time Starting XI

Arsenal do not have anyone else that can do what Olivier Giroud does. He occupies so much attention in the box that opposing defenses get torn asunder by wide attacks and through balls. Giroud is like a backboard in basketball. If you know how to use it, it is a players most useful tool. He does not lose the ball. He absorbs it and spits it back out where it needs to go.

And then there is his heading ability. Where would Arsenal be without that head to feed crosses off of? Arsenal need Olivier Giroud. This attack is built for him.

What do you think Gooners? Am I out of my mind? Leave a comment, scold me if you must.