Arsenal have an impenetrable defensive cheat code

Arsenal had to ride their luck on Saturday afternoon as they battled their way to another massive win in their quest for a top four place with a 3-1 victory over Manchester United.

Starting the game in perfect fashion with a goal inside three minutes, despite some nervy moments the Gunners got themselves two goals to the good when Bukayo Saka converted from the penalty spot.

Cristiano Ronaldo reduced the deficit mere seconds later and for 25 or so minutes after the break Arsenal lost even the faintest level of control on the match. Defenders were dropping clangers, the woodwork saved their skin and it felt like a matter of time before the equaliser would arrive.

A goal that could well have saved Arsenal’s top four ambitions came via the thunderous left boot of Granit Xhaka, by which point an all-out offensive was expected from the visitors. It never came.

Arsenal’s Rob Holding low block is a defensive cheat code that Mikel Arteta has expertly coached, and one Manchester United also couldn’t penetrate

Not because they had downed tools. No. It was because they couldn’t get close. Against a back four they found joy, but the minute Mikel Arteta threw Rob Holding on it was game over. Craig Pawson might as well have blown the full-time whistle. Bring forward the AFCON ref.

Holding has carved himself a niche within this team. A quite spectacular one. Garnering a cult following this season, when he enters the fray it’s a cheat code. The opposition have no idea how to penetrate Operation Low Block. Football is beautiful in so many ways but there is a special place in the Emirates halls reserved for the majesty of the back-five masterclass Arsenal put on when they’re aiming to preserve a lead.

The role Holding plays is integral. His capabilities on the ball are undoubtedly limited but when it comes to getting stuck into duels, putting his head on the end of crosses or clearing the ball with all his might, there is no limit to his defensive acumen.

There is something quite poetic about having a manager in charge who has overseen some of the most delightful attacking football the Emirates has seen for years being able to coach the meanest low block in the Premier League. Chelsea didn’t get a sniff when Arsenal reverted to a back five at Stamford Bridge and Manchester United couldn’t even muster a single shot when Holding came on with 15 minutes to go.

Only one team has broken the barrier this term and that was a Manchester City side with one additional player on the pitch for 30 minutes, via the aid of a fortunate deflection. That is the only occasion where Holding has come on as a substitute this season and conceded a goal.

Every aspect of the block is supremely well drilled. The pressing triggers are precise, the spaces kept tight and the communication for individual aggression is so meticulously worked on that it resembles ants protecting their queen.

In an ideal world it won’t be required. But now, when every Premier League point counts, it’s priceless.