Following an emotional Instagrammed goodbye last week, Bacary Sagna confirmed that he would be leaving Arsenal this summer. This wasn’t all that surprising for fans, who had been waiting with baited breath for the Frenchman to come public with the news.
But the lack of surprise won’t make things any easier for Arsenal. They may have known that Sagna’s exit was coming, but that doesn’t make the news any less disappointing. Having been at the club since 2007, the French full-back was one of The Gunners most experienced and most consistent performers.
He was a player who could be counted on to give his all in every game, regardless of the opposition. He didn’t let the pressure of big games get to him, nor did he get complacent when he took on small fry. He was a consummate professional.
How do you go about replacing that? Arsene Wenger has a genuine challenge on his hands.
Talented strikers are a dime a dozen. If you’re willing to splash the cash, chances are you’ll be able to find a good option. I’m not sure that this is true with right-backs. This particularly position seems to be a little more difficult to fill.
The Mirror report that Arsene Wenger has three main transfer targets in mind. These players are Ivory Coast’s Serge Aurier, Southampton’s Calum Chambers and Everton’s Seamus Coleman. Out of this trio, I’d argue that only Seamus Coleman is good enough to replace Bacary Sagna.
The other two are still too young and raw to be relied upon to produce the goods on a regular basis. They wouldn’t represent a massive step up on Arsenal’s current option, Carl Jenkinson.
But Coleman certainly would. The Everton full-back has just enjoyed his best season yet at Goodison Park. Coleman made 41 appearances last season and even managed to chip in with 7 goals. He’s not just defensively astute, he’s also capable of contributing in the final third. That’s why he represents such a good option for Arsene Wenger and co.
The Mirror note that Everton won’t be willing to let Coleman go without a fight. That’s as maybe, but The Gunners certainly have enough cash to make a deal happen. What’s more, I’m sure the player could be tempted with the promise of Champions League action.
Let’s just hope that Arsene Wenger sees him as a suitable replacement for Bacary Sagna.
What’s your take? Could Seamus Coleman do a job at The Emirates?
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As long as my name sake Arsene can do it on the cheap while charging those mugs buying the Premier Leagues most expensive season tickets a massive amount he will do.