Emery’s Arsenal: From a spine of glass to a backbone of brass

Over recent years Arsenal have struggled immensely on the defensive end of the pitch. With Unai Emery’s newest acquisitions’ that looks set to change.

Since Emery has overtaken the helm of Arsenal he has shown us time and time again what he views as the weakest points. With three defensive signings already being completed and another certain Uruguayan looking nearer and nearer, the gunners backbone is set for major surgery.

Emery’s German wall, Bernd Leno

The signing of the young, German international keeper from the Bundesliga epitomizes Emery’s ideology coming into his first season. Leno was a mere £22 million pounds and looks set to take the #1 spot away from the aging Petr Cech.

Arsenal fans are hoping that Leno’s shot stopping capabilities will give them the push they need to return to the Champions League once again. After years and years of not having any real notable keepers, lets hope Leno can change the unwanted pattern.

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Sokratis Papastathopolous

The Greek international was just announced yesterday and looks as though he will also walk right into the starting lineup along with Leno.

Sokratis has been described by many as “commanding”. Leadership is a trait that does not run through many of these players veins at the moment. However, despite him having some much needed traits, came some criticism as well.

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Most fans would prefer a more pricey, better and younger defender. Kalidou Koulibaly was at the forefront of names being mentioned by the hopeful Gooners.

Emery has made it no secret that his goal is to maintain this attacking style. However, with that being said he seems to understand that the defensive end of the pitch is critical to succeed in the Premier League. Arsene Wenger had many strong suits, but defensive awareness was not one of them. Emery has made three, inexpensive appointments to the defense with the help of Ivan Gazidis as well as Sven Mislintat.

Lucas Torreria

By far the most relevant and exciting signing of the summer that is yet to happen is that of Lucas Torreira. The proposed transfer of the Uruguayan from Sampdoria has excited fans exponentially due to the fact we’ve been in need of a proper holding midfielder for the past 10 years.

Torreira is not what fans seemed to want initially, but after some brilliant performances at the World Cup he has won over the majority of his soon to be team’s fans. Toreria may only stand at 5 foot 5, but plays as brave as the largest player on the pitch.

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Emery seems to be adjusting to life quite well with Arsenal and has shown us fans a new, fresh approach to transfer dealings. The Spaniard has the full backing of the fans as well as the board. Will Arsenal’s new brass spine withstand the potent attacks of the Premier League or be smashed to bits? Only time will tell.