Arsenal: 3 tactical changes in recent performances

2. How to Avoid Dropping Off

Watching Arsenal race into a lead and have the game in the palm of their hand only to inexplicably loosen their grip and hand control over to the opponent was a regular source of frustration.

Away at the likes of Manchester United, at home to Crystal Palace, and in many more instances, this ploy, if that’s the way you viewed it, had damaging consequences.

Over the past four Premier League matches it has not happened to the same extent, if indeed at all. There was a drop off against West Ham but nobody needs reminding that they’re a very strong team. The introductions of senior duo Xhaka and Lacazette have played a part in solving this issue.

Tactically, however, there is clever aggression off the ball which is helping Arsenal to maintain some endeavour even in positive game states. Gabriel is key in this with him sometimes even following his marker up to the final third just to maintain pressure. Bukayo Saka is asked to be high and wide to keep opposition full-backs pinned back, and Gabriel Martinelli follows suit.

Lacazette constantly barks orders to push up, and the counter-pressing from the side is incredibly efficient. Structure off the ball is vital in building the foundation for a more effective counter-press and with the defensive line pushing up with the help of Gabriel, the wide players forcing opposition lines back, and intelligent communication between Odegaard and Lacazette triggering the counter-press, with the help or a more advanced Xhaka Arsenal are now keeping teams on the ropes instead of offering them a helping hand.

Small tweaks in isolation, when combined together the result is what’s been seen over recent outings.

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