Whilst it seems like a long time ago now, I’m sure Arsenal fans will remember their club’s 3-1 defeat to Aston Villa on the opening day of the season.
It was a day where just about everything seemed to go wrong for the Gunners. Despite opening the scoring, Arsenal struggled to get a foothold in the game and their defense was completely unable to deal with Christian Benteke, who made himself a nuisance at every turn.
Whilst injuries and bizarre refereeing played it’s part, Villa keeper Brad Guzan also deserves his share of the credit. The man was imperious on the day and proved equal to just about everything the Arsenal forward line threw at him.
The American International has continued in this rich vein of form since. When the 29-year-old is playing this well, he seems to have it all: quick reaction speed, excellent shot-stopping ability, a good connection with his back-four and the ability to command his area.
He also knows when to come and claim and when to leave it for a defender to clear, which is a quality most Arsenal keepers never seem to learn.
Arsenal fans have had to put up with their fair share of dodgy keepers over the last few years. But whilst the days of Manuel Almunia are long gone, there are still some concerns over the Gunners’ current number one Wojciech Szczesny.
The Pole was dreadful during the Gunners’ 3-1 defeat to Aston Villa. Thankfully, he’s improved dramatically since, but it may still make sense to add an experienced keeper to Arsenal’s squad – somebody who could provide guidance. Indeed, if the Gunners are serious about challenging for silverware, this may well be a necessity.
I’m sure at this stage, most fans will point to new signing Emiliano Viviano. Yet the fact that Viviano did not play in Arsenal’s League Cup game against West Brom is revealing. He also has no Premier League experience and may take some time to adapt. Why not go after somebody who wouldn’t have these issues?
As luck would have it, The Mirror have linked Arsenal to Brad Guzan. If Villa are willing to sell for a fair price, this could be a good move for the club. He’d be able to play a mentor role to Szczesny and Viviano and would make for a fine back-up keeper.
It’d probably put an end to Lukasz Fabianski’s playing career, but if that’s the case, so be it!
What’s your take? Should Arsenal sign a more experienced keeper?
Please follow @ThePerfectPass for more football related action!
ThisisFutbol.com are seeking new writers to join the team! If you’re passionate about football, drop us a line at “thisisfutbol.com@snack-media.com” to learn more.