Arsenal: 4 players winter break is absolutely crucial for

1. Shkodran Mustafi

Arguably the most important, at number 1, is Shkodran Mustafi. He played against Burnley, despite a nasty knock to the ankle, which sent him off on a stretcher the week before against Bournemouth.

This winter break will give him the opportunity to get back from any residual pain, and be fully fit going forwards. Having healthy center backs will prove crucial to Arsenal’s back half of the season, even if they do wear number 20.

In recent weeks, Mikel Arteta has placed his faith in the German, and despite an egregious error against Chelsea, Mustafi has vindicated that faith. The 26-year-old has been quite good recently, and more than that, he’s been trustworthy. I’d like to see him fighting for a spot in the team and earning it, rather than being the only choice, and this winter break will allow him to do so. If he can prove himself worthy of the starting spot, I am surprisingly okay with him being there.

The only thing we need to kickstart the Mikel Arteta revolution is a bit of pruning. These players who return over winter break will allow him to build the team he believes works best for him, and will mark increased future success.