Arsenal: Will Laurent Koscielny still be a regular starter?

Laurent Koscielny may still be injured and on the sidelines, but upon his return will he still be a regular for Arsenal of will he have to pass on the torch and watch from the sidelines?

Unai Emery’s Arsenal career started in pre-season with an 8-0 victory. During the game we saw 2 different center back partnerships in each half, Sokratis with Mavropanos and Mustafi with Holding. With Laurent Koscielny not being available for the game due to an injury suffered late last season, we weren’t able to see if the Frenchman will be used under the Spanish manager.

Sokratis and Mavropanos makes sense as the former Borussia Dortmund man is expected to lead and guide his younger countrymen into a commanding figure. Mavropanos is expected to learn a great deal from Sokratis so many expect that partnership to still continue.

Mustafi and Holding on the other hand have questions surrounding their future at the club. Shkodran Mustafi is touted to depart the club for good with clubs in Serie A looking to secure his signature, but Rob Holding on the other hand is being questioned about a loan move.

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A loan move would benefit the young Englishman in gaining experience and game time and would see him as a key figure for Arsenal’s defense in the future.

Also at the club is Calum Chambers. The former Southampton man started his career as a right back and has played as a center back and a defensive midfielder as well. Under the former manager, Chambers was sure to pursue a career in the middle of that defense with Rob Holding, but under new management, Chambers is again expected to shine in a new midfield role.

And then there is Laurent Koscielny. The 32 year old has been one of Arsenals best performing defenders for many years and has really proved himself to be the Premier Leagues best when he is on form, but unfortunately with the Frenchman’s long and complicated injury history, it has seen his performances decline within the last year. Whilst a decline in form comes with age, it also means in that playing time will be limited.

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It wouldn’t be a surprise if Koscielny’s Gunners future turns out like that of ex capital, Per Mertesacker and he just slots in when others are injured or need to be rested, but it also wouldn’t be a surprise if he was to regain his form and continue within the first team and play alongside Sokratis. But with his captaincy in question and rumors of a new club captain to be decided, does it quietly spell the end of Koscielny’s involvement within the first team?