How do you replace a player like Alex Song? If you’re Arsene Wenger, it’s probably going to be with an attacking player. Yes, Song was a defensive midfielder (that was his job title at least) but Wenger’s attacking philosophy has seen the club linked to all manner of players who prefer to ply their trade further up the pitch. What Wenger’s next move will be, of course, is anybody’s guess, but I know where I’d put my money.
It’s worth remembering that Alex Song wasn’t a quintessential defensive midfielder. He was merely the member of Arsenal’s midfield who tended to stay further back. As a result, he often ended up guarding the back-four. But his indisciplined approach saw him make strides forward and try and unleash forwards. Even if he was a little shot-shy, his chipped through-ball really was a sight to behold (just ask Robin Van Persie).
At the moment, there’s a creative vacuum in Arsenal’s midfield and with Wenger on the look, he could do a lot worse than Barcelona’s forgotten man Ibrahim Afellay. According to The Metro, Arsenal (and Spurs) are on ‘alert’ as the Dutch attacking midfielder/winger has been told he can leave Barcelona.
Thanks to a cruciate ligament injury, Afellay only made 5 appearances for Barcelona last season. He’s thought to be keen to prove himself at the Nou Camp, but there’s a good chance that he’ll be considered surplus to requirements. Maybe it’s best that he looks for regular football elsewhere?
He could slot into Arsenal’s midfield in Song’s place, or, should Theo Walcott also move on, he’s versatile enough to play down the flanks. With Theo’s future uncertain and the centre of Arsenal’s midfield a little lacking (at least until Jack Wilshere’s return), Afellay’s flexibility could be a real asset for the Gunners.
At 26-years-old, the Dutchman is about to enter the prime years of his career. He shouldn’t be sitting on the bench at the Nou Camp. He should be proving his worth in the Premier League.
He cost Barca just £2.4m back in January 2011, but he’s sure to cost a significant sum more this summer. Arsenal sent Barca Song earlier this summer, so hopefully they’ll be willing to do business with the Gunners. One thing’s for sure: Afellay would make a great addition.
What’s your take? Would you take Afellay at the Emirates?
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The problem with non epl players is some might take time to adjust to the rigours of the epl. O fcourse some have adjusted very well. So far Wenger’s non epl players eg the two French defenders,et c have atken longer than expected with Squillachi not epl material.
Then it would be time wasted.
He cost just £2.4m, but his wages is expected to be in excess of £100k per week!
NO CHANCE of moving. He’ll sit on the bench for that alright.