Over the years, Manchester United have transformed winning ugly into an art-form. Even on their worst days, they’re capable of a few moments of brilliance. This is often enough to secure a victory, even if it comes against the run of play.
Watching Arsenal attempt to defend a lead, however, is an excruciating task. That’s just not the way that their leader, manager and stylist, Arsene Wenger has set them up.
So it was a little strange to see the Gunners attempt to defend a 1-0 lead against a ten-men Fulham side on Saturday. As expected, Arsenal looked bewildered and taken a back.
In fact, Fulham were by far the better side and can count themselves unlucky that they didn’t wind up with a better result.
The fact that Arsenal struggled in this regard (and have done all season), only strengthens the notion that Arsene needs to spend this summer. Yes, Arsenal got the result they needed, but shouldn’t that result have come a little more — naturally?
The Gunners need a little more creative endeavour in the centre of the park (I’m still not sure about Aaron Ramsey, though I recognise he has been better over the last month or so) and somebody who can finish, and provide a little spark in and around the box (Olivier Giroud is just not Arsenal standard).
Julian Draxler would certainly tick the first box, which may in turn provide Arsenal with more going forward. The Express claim that Arsene has a serious interest in Manchester United target and Schalke star, Julian Draxler. It’s thought that he would cost £15m.
Now that Lewis Holtby has moved to Spurs and the speculation surrounding Klaas Jan-Huntelaar has come to an end, it seems that Draxler is Schalke’s hottest property.
At just 19-years-old, there’s plenty of reasons to get excited about this talented youngster. He already has 4 caps for the German international side and has attracted interest from top clubs in Europe (including Real Madrid!)
He’s caught the eye thanks to his quick, accurate passing, attacking style and quick feet. He’s not unlike Mario Gotze, who is a little further along his development path.
I’m not surprised Arsenal are interested. The Gunners have always invested in the game’s best young talent and this case would be no different. He’d add a little more fizz to the Gunners midfield and could become a real world-beater over the next two-or-three seasons.
What’s your take? Should Arsenal snap up this 19-year-old talent, or should they look for a more experienced star?
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Draxler will be world class in a few years, should sign him quick.