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Arsenal: 4 summer transfer priorities ranked
By Krish Ajmani
2. Central Midfield
Unlike the previous position discussed, the clamor for at least one new midfielder has been deafening. Links to the likes of James Maddison have dissipated while connections to old targets have resurfaced as creativity remains a concern, but the showing of Arsenal’s central midfield against Brentford showcased perfectly why this position has been the center of discussions for months.
Granit Xhaka and Lokonga started at the base of midfield on Friday. The two would not be more different. The Belgian signing represents the hope of all Arsenal fans: a young, gifted prospect with a high ceiling. Sambi displayed a calmness in possession, the ability to drive with the ball and the desire to make something happen. Not all of his ambitious passes came off but the willingness to take risks and pass forward was in stark contrast to what fans have become accustomed to seeing with his partner.
Xhaka’s performance was forgettable, to say the least. The Swiss international was slow in moving the ball, predictable in his progression and still far too easy to harry into mistakes, nearly gifting the opposition the ball on the edge of the Arsenal box in one all-too familiar moment.
Reluctant to take responsibility and at least attempt more incisive passes, Xhaka did little of note on the ball. Even the Swiss’ most steadfast fans would have been disappointed with the predictable ball out to Tierney before a pointless cross is fired in towards our diminutive forwards.
Lokonga is of the same mould as Partey. Faster on the ball, the two understand the importance of progression and the economy of touches. Moving the ball up the pitch should not be endless balls out to the flanks. Penetrating passes, even if they do not always come off, would at least show a hunger to create and influence the game, something that is in severe demand at Arsenal.
Creating from deep is something no Arsenal midfielders can do. Reinforcements in the center of the pitch would provide a greater unpredictability that is crucial in unlocking defenses. As it is, it’s just more of the same from last season. Who’d have thought?