Arsenal: Zlatan Ibrahimovic Challenges Arsene Wenger’s Ideals

Zlatan Ibrahimovic led Manchester United to EFL Cup trophy on Sunday, challenging Arsene Wenger’s ideal in refusing to sign big characters for Arsenal.

The way in which Arsenal are managed, the way in which they are run, from the macro, financial, future-shaping decisions right down to the minute details is all moulded in the image of one man. That man is the same man that it has been for over two decades.

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I am, of course, talking about Arsene Wenger. While, in recent years, he has faced much backlash, like it or not, every aspect of the club is influenced by him, what he believes in, his ideal, his approach, his character. It has brought much success throughout his tenure, especially in the early years.

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But that does not mean that he should exempt from criticism. There are many ways in which Arsenal are managed that are exemplary, truly world-leading approaches. The financial security of the club, the changes in diet and fitness, the man management of players, treating them as men, rather than talented tools as a means to a footballing end.

However, there are also ways in which the club is managed that does not bring about the greatest success. Perhaps the biggest critique of Wenger and his ways pertains to his hesitance in the transfer window. In particular, the questions regarding his managed have centred on his unwillingness to enter the financial madness of modern football, while also avoiding the big name stars that often make a good team, great.

While those critiques are not as valid as many may have you believe, there is one aspect of Wenger’s transfer behaviour that is particularly frustrating. His avoidance of the big character, in favour of protecting the harmony of the dressing room, is plaguing the prospects of this squad.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic is a prime example of why such players are needed. Signed on a free transfer in the summer, the big Swede has been utterly magnificent for Manchester United, leading them to an EFL Cup trophy on Sunday, scoring a wonderful free kick, before powering a late-game header past Fraser Forster.

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While his performances on the pitch this season have been impressive, what has been even more influential throughout the year has been his character. Some may call him cocky, arrogant, flashy. But actually, his forceful personality has inspired his team to success, something that Wenger’s ideals seemingly are unable to accept.