Arsenal: 4 positives from last-gasp 2-1 Man City defeat

2. The Trio of Odegaard, Xhaka & Partey

Since the new-look team first got its run out as a unit earlier in the season it has all been about forging partnerships. This applies all over the pitch, whether it’s the full-back and his winger, the two central defenders or, in this case, the central triangle.

Martin Odegaard is on course to scoop the Premier League POTM award for his outstanding recent displays. He’s found his groove in this team. And, gradually, Thomas Partey has been building up his confidence after an earlier wobble at the start of the month. And, Granit Xhaka is adding more control in midfield.

It is not a coincidence that the three are hitting these levels all around the same time. They improve each other and the understanding between the three is helping to elevate Arsenal to the levels they are now at.

The dynamic in midfield between Partey and Xhaka is different to how it was previously – and working even better. Barring another inexcusable and idiotic moment, Xhaka was outstanding against City as he performed a box-to-box type role and pressed from the front, always offering a passing option either in front or behind.

Partey had his best ever performance in an Arsenal shirt and Odegaard stitched all the parts together fluidly as he set players off in the right moments. As a trio they look as dangerous and connected as any in the division. There is centrality and counter-pressing interwoven with clever positioning and compactness out of possession.

A shame, then, that Xhaka is still capable of being a moron and Partey is now gone for the entire month.

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