Arsenal Vs Southampton: 5 things we learned – Job done

2. Breaking down Arteta’s system change

Prior to lockdown, Mikel Arteta exclusively used a 4-2-3-1 formation with Mesut Ozil operating in the number 10 position. He has entirely abandoned that system since the Premier League’s return. And in the last two matches, he has settled on a lopsided 4-3-3 shape that often resembles a back three with wing-backs.

While starting in a 4-3-3, Bukayo Saka as a left-sided central midfielder drifted to the left flank, Kieran Tierney remained deeper in his position, while Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang again drifted centrally. This positional rotation has two key aims in mind: to release Saka down the left flank as a ball progressing wing-back who can impact play in the final third; to provide Aubameyang with the opportunity to drive forward, making those outside-to-inside runs that he times so brilliantly.

Did it work? Well, yes, at times. Aubameyang was threatening throughout with those exact movements, though his final ball was poor. Saka, meanwhile, was excellent again and often used as Arsenal’s primary outlet, while defensively, Tierney’s more conservative approach provided greater balance to the team. It will be fascinating to see how this tactical approach evolves in the coming weeks.