Looking back, it’s now clear that The Gunners had a hugely successful January, both on and off the pitch. Focusing on the transfer market, Arsene Wenger did what he needed to do by bringing in a well-regarded mid-level centre-back. There aren’t too many good options available at this stage of the season, but The Professor managed to find one in the shape of Gabriel Paulista.
He also decided to sign a 17-year-old defensive midfielder, Krystian Bielik, a player who could go on to replace the man who will be the subject of this article.
As well as making two new signings, Arsene Wenger also convinced two important players to sign new deals with the club: Chuba Akpom and Francis Coquelin. Young Chuba looks like he could blossom into a good player, but Francis Coquelin is the real catch here. After all, he’s the one who now looks ready and able to perform on a regular basis, week-in and week-out.
You’ve heard the story by now. Francis Coquelin’s Arsenal career was all but over a few months ago. He’d be loaned out to Charlton, where he was just about starting to find his feet, before getting recalled by Arsene Wenger due to a midfield injury crisis at The Emirates.
Galvanised by the prospect of Premier League football, Coquelin began to put in some of the best performances of his career. Sitting in between the midfield and the defense, he provides a diligent, determined presence. He’s always there to mop up wayward balls, he’s not afraid to slam into tackles and he’s pretty good in the air.
Arsenal haven’t had a player like him since Gilberto Silva. None of their other defensive midfielders have been disciplined enough to perform the role as Arsene Wenger really requires. Now that The Professor has found the man he needs, I’m not surprised that he’s taken the measures necessary to lock him down.
Francis Coquelin’s new Arsenal contract is brilliant news for the fans. The Gunners may just have found their own Nemanja Matic.
What’s your take? How important is Francis Coquelin going to be for Arsenal?
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.