Arsenal vs Newcastle: 5 things to watch for in season opener

2. Defense… Oh God…

As of writing, we have no defensive help coming in. Not even Kieran Tierney. Meaning that our back line is probably going to look something like: Ainsley Maitland-Niles—Calum Chambers—Sokratis—Nacho Monreal.

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If you’re a sensible human being, this is the kind of defense that gives you indigestion. As much as I love Chambers and Maitland-Niles… and Sokratis……… and Monreal (?), even I have to admit that this is a fragile defense that is riddled with questions.

But amidst those questions is ability. Yes. Let’s take a turn on the optimism train.

We know what Sokratis can do. He proved it last year. And I was actually quite pleased with Chambers’ performances, barring getting spun around by Luis Suarez (lots of defenders suffer similar fates). He looked composed, intelligent, and mature.

The fullbacks make me nervous, but Monreal is a seasoned veteran and as long as he lays off the own goals, Maitland-Niles is a starlet in training. So for as much as I want to sit here and doom and gloom the defensive situation, I have to say that I’m loving the potential. Then again, my caffeine is just now kicking in, so maybe in three hours I’ll come back and edit this.

Moving on to No. 1.