Arsenal: 4 players winter break is absolutely crucial for

3. Sead Kolasinac

Third is Sead Kolasinac, and you’re probably surprised he isn’t ranked higher. But Bukayo Saka has been elite at left-back for Arsenal, and while Kolasinac’s return will allow the young Englishman to return to his favored position of left-wing, it will also likely subject him to the bench.

However, the return of our injury-prone hulk is necessary. Bukayo Saka deserves the chance to fight for his starting spot, and can still earn playing time. He has been excellent going forward from left-back, and needs to cement his place at the position where he will feature going forward, once our defense is healthy.

In addition, his physicality will be a welcome addition to the side in the upcoming fixtures. Everton’s Dominic Calvert-Lewin relies on runs into the channels between fullbacks and center-halves, and his imposing strength will trouble our backline. Similarly, Newcastle’s Joelinton and Andy Carroll are both physically dominant, and will give our center-backs no end of trouble. His strength will be necessary going forward.

We also need more defensive experience in the lineup, and Kolasinac provides that. He is a more experienced, and technically better defender than Bukayo Saka. And while the young Englishman offers more going forwards, Kolasinac is no slouch.

He specializes in creating the low, cut-back chances off of which Aubameyang and Lacazette thrive. Our last league win was against Manchester United, and Kolasinac was excellent in that match. I’d like to see him back at full barnstorming force, and this winter break will allow him to get there.

On to a promising attacker at No. 2.