With Arsenal on the hunt for a striker, I’m sure that Arsene Wenger pricked up his ears when he heard Mario Mandzukic claim that he’s ready to leave Bayern Munich. The Croatian ace is a top quality striker and he’s sure to have plenty of potential suitors this summer.
Here’s what Mandzukic had to say about his current situation with the Bundesliga champions:
“I think it is fine that I was frank with the club. Bayern is a fantastic club, and indeed it was not until recently that I thought about going. I never thought it would happen like this, but let’s be honest, I do not correspond with the style of game that Guardiola wants to play. Because of this, I think it is best that we part company.”
“I thank the club for offering me a contract extension, and I thank Guardiola who is a great coach and I wish everyone at the club well in future, their fans have always been beautiful with me – but now it’s time for a new challenge.” (Source: The Mirror)
I can’t help but wonder if Robert Lewandowski’s arrival at the Allianz Arena has also played a role in this decision. Either way, a top quality striker is now on the market and it’s up to Arsenal to react accordingly.
There’s no doubting Mandzukic’s goal-scoring record. Since moving to Bayern Munich two seasons ago, he’s scored 48 goals in 88 appearances. He may not feel that he’s a good fit for a Pep Guardiola side, but he certainly hasn’t let Bayern down.
It strikes me that Mario Mandzukic would be a good fit for a Premier League club. He’s physically tough, holds the ball up well and is good at linking up with his midfielders. He’s not too dissimilar from Arsenal’s current option, Olivier Giroud, but he’d certainly represent a significant step up on the Frenchman.
It’s worth remembering that Mandzukic is still under contract with Bayern Munich. If Arsenal are interested they’ll have to be prepared to spend big on him. Here’s hoping that Arsene Wenger is prepared to provide Mandzukic with the escape route that he seems to desire.
What’s your take? Should The Gunners move in for this unhappy Bayern Munich ace?
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