Arsenal’s defensive record has been very impressive this season, but it’s difficult to shake the feeling that this team has a soft underbelly. In years gone by the Gunners have been a team that’s capable of capitulating at any moment.
I think back to the 4-4 draw with Newcastle, triggered by Abou Diaby’s red card. I’m also reminded of the way that the Gunners shipped two goals against Birmingham City in a League Cup final.
If The Gunners have been better this season, it’s because Per Mertesacker and Laurent Koscielny have formed a fantastic partnership. Mertesacker’s there to mop up everything in the air and to position himself to stop attacks. Koscielny picks up all the pieces and isn’t afraid to put in a last ditch tackle. Together they’ve been fantastic.
But that hasn’t stopped Arsenal from conceding five goals against Liverpool and six goals against Manchester City. The Gunners are still capable of a complete defensive meltdown, it seems.
With very few options beyond Koscielny and Mertesacker (I’m not sure that Thomas Vermaelen is going to hang around much longer), it’s important that Arsene Wenger begins to consider his options in this department.
One player who appears to be on Arsenal’s radar is SC Freiburg centre-back, Matthias Ginter. According to The Mirror, the Gunners could be about to battle it out for his signature with Manchester United in the transfer market. Unfortunately, they also carry quotes from Freiburg president, Fritz Keller, who has warned Ginter against any such move:
“In my opinion, [staying at Freiburg] is better for him than sitting on the bench at one of the big clubs. He has a long-term contract and for a player of his age it could be interesting to have another year of stability.”
I doubt the player himself will see things that way. He’s currently playing for a relegation threatened Bundesliga side. If the chance comes by to play for a team in the Champions League, is he really going to turn it down? I don’t think so.
Given the German side’s difficulties this season, they’re going to struggle to keep hold of players like Ginter in the summer. It’s just up to Arsenal to make them an offer they can’t refuse!
What’s your take? Is Matthias Ginter the right man for the job at the Emirates?
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