There has been a lot of talk this season about the way that this Arsenal side fits together. Fans and pundits alike seem confused as to how a team packed full of talent could underperform to such a large degree.
Let’s take the midfield as a microcosm. As it currently stands, it contains the Gunners three most technically gifted players: Jack Wilshere, Mikel Arteta and Santi Cazorla.
These are smart players, with the ability to ping the ball about with accuracy and grace and yet they’ve struggled to break down teams this season.
There seems to be a lack of adaptability, or fight present amongst them. Whilst Jack Wilshere is a competitive type, he has rather a slight frame and can hardly be classified as ‘threatening presence’.
Since the Gunners sold Alex Song last summer, the only player they have that really fits this mould is Abou Diaby and he’s a constant injury doubt. Arsene Wenger just can’t afford to place his trust in the Frenchman any longer – it’s time to look elsewhere.
This lack has caused fans to call out for a player in the mould of Yann M’Vila, Cheik Tiote or Victor Wanyama. Three good choices, but I’d like to add a further name to this list.
I’m referring to Brazilian defensive midfielder, Luiz Gustavo. He’s a player that Bayern Munich liked enough to splash £12m on back in January 2011, but seems to have fallen out of favour (largely thanks to injury problems) at the Allianz Arena. It’s a shame, because the 6 ft 2in midfielder cuts an imposing figure, likes to make his presence felt and can also move the ball around with some flair and ability.
Suffice to say, he’s a player who could and should be performing at the top level. He deserves some regular game time.
According to the Daily Mail, he’d be available for around £10m and Arsene Wenger is said to be keen. Perhaps he too, like so many other Arsenal fans has recognized that this is an area where the Gunners lack.
Gustavo can also play as a centre-back or as a left-back and I’m sure his versatility would be appreciated at Arsenal. We’ve seen Andre Santos underperform this season and the Gunners don’t exactly look secure at the back. A player this flexible coul end up being something of a bargain for this Arsenal side. I can only hope that Wenger pushes this particular deal through.
What’s your take? Should Arsenal splash the cash on Luiz Gustavo?
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Mbiwa would be better. He’s a leader who would instantly be our best defender and can play in any defensive position to a high level. Gustavo looks a good central/defensive midfielder, but I’ve never seen him in other positions. He could be good, but just because he’s played LB or CB before doesn’t mean he could play well in those positions.