Olivier Giroud wasn’t bad in The FA Cup final. He hit the post in extra time, set up Aaron Ramsey for the winner (with the cheekiest of back-heels) and caused problems throughout. But he only really looked switched on once Yaya Sanogo joined him upfront. Playing alongside Lukas Podolski, he looked a little toothless (so did the German and the rest of the Arsenal team, to be fair).
That’s very much been the story of Giroud’s season. On his day he can be effective, but he’s also wildly inconsistent. He’s got no pace (like, really. None whatsoever!), he’s technically limited (though his flicks in and around the penalty area are pretty effective) and he doesn’t score enough goals from outside the box. Is it any wonder that The Gunners are currently looking for another option in this department?
Mario Mandzukic is in a similar position at his current club, Bayern Munich. Whilst the Croatian ace has been fairly effective this season, it’s still not entirely clear that he’s a good fit for his team. Pep Guardiola prefers slight, technically minded footballers, but Mandzukic is a big bruiser, who’s strong in the air and tough to dispossess.
Perhaps this is why he wasn’t taken in the travelling squad to play Borussia Dortmuund in last week’s German Cup final? Perhaps this is why Bayern Munich went out and signed Robert Lewandowski?
Despite all these issues, Mandzukic has still managed to chip in with 18 Bundesliga goals this season. But given his current situation, I can’t help but wonder if Bayern Munich would be willing to consider selling him this summer. And with Arsenal on the hunt, this could prove to be a good match.
The Mirror claim that Mario Mandzukic is a target for both Arsenal and Chelsea, which is no surprise really given the lack of firepower at both clubs. Let’s just hope Arsene Wenger proves to be more persuasive than Jose Mourinho. The big Croatian could be exactly what The Gunners need if they’re to win the Premier League next season.
What’s your take? Where does Mario Mandzukic’s future lie? Would he be a good fit for Arsenal?
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jose moriho should sighn mazukic it will been a good match for chelsea