Arsenal have now had two chances to see young German prodigy Lewis Holtby in action. The Schalke 04 star may have been quiet when the Bundesliga side visited the Emirates a couple of weeks back (though he was part of a midfield that positively fizzing with energy and passed Arsenal to death) but he showed all aspects of his promise when Arsenal travelled to Germany last Tuesday.
Despite Schalke 04 looking down and out at one stage during the game, Holtby was at the heart of a stirring comeback. He led his side from 2 goals down to a 2-2 draw, using his smart passing, his quick feet and his direct play.
In short, he impressed. I can’t help but wonder if Arsene Wenger was looking on wondering why the talented players in his side aren’t playing with the same level of pep. He looked fired up and unwilling to settle for a defeat. This kind of attitude is something that Arsenal need more of – and quick. I hope Arsene Wenger considers raiding Schalke this summer.
Whilst most people are interested in seeing Arsenal pick up Schalke’s unstoppable striker Klaas Jan-Huntelaar, Wenger may view Holtby as a more realistic acquisition.
Before Tuesday’s game the player himself has played down the possibility: “Other people can talk about it, but I just want three points for me and my team. Everything else I just put to the side. I play for Schalke, I don’t play for Liverpool, Arsenal or anyone else.” (Source: The Telegraph).
But whilst he’s dismissive, numerous media sources have linked Arsenal (and Liverpool) to the young German. I can’t help but wonder – wouldn’t he be a massive improvement on players like Abou Diaby, Tomas Rosicky (who never seem to turn up) and Aaron Ramsey (who continues to disappoint)?
It’s often posited that Arsenal’s midfield is overcrowded. If fitness wasn’t a problem, this would be true. The truth is, however, a lot of the players don’t, or aren’t able to contribute in any meaningful way. It’s disappointing to see, but a player like Lewis Holtby could provide an antidote.
At just 22-years-old, it’s clear that he has a big future ahead of him. Passing is a key-part of his game. He loves to join the attack. He looks like a quintessential Arsene Wenger signing. So I wouldn’t be at all surprised if the Frenchman tested the waters this January with a bid.
What’s your take? Would Holtby improve Arsenal’s bloated midfield?
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i Rather prefer Zaha