Posts tagged “Arsenal”
The art of defence is in attack for Barcelona and Arsenal
It is a celebrated part of Arsenal’s history but Herbert Chapman’s revolutionary tactics were initially received with much furore. The seeds of the change that was to see the W-M formation (or 3-2-2-3) supersede the 2-3-5 were planted in Chapman’s spell in charge of Huddersfield when in 1922, in the FA Cup final game against Notts County, his [...]
Arsenal’s defence must overcome its mental barriers
So the monkey on Arséne Wenger’s back remains. On Sunday, it was viciously clawing and grasping onto Wenger’s shoulders, trying desperately to keep balanced; especially so after Arsenal dominated the middle period of the second-half, aiming shot after shot at Ben Foster’s goal. Today, it rests happily on his back, chain-smoking like a simian Zdeněk Zeman [...]
Modern football reaches a pantheon. Arsenal prevails in attack vs attack
This was a match where every detailed seemed to matter just that bit more. Every pass was stressed. Every shot was scrutinised. Every contested challenge, dribble and interception was crucial. Every bounce of Lionel Messi’s hair. The timing of Theo Walcott’s runs. Refereeing decisions. Pep Guardiola’s catwalk struts down the touchline. Every unscrewing of Arsene [...]
Speed of passing remains key for Arsène Wenger’s side
Despite seeing his side outclassed at Camp Nou last season, technical efficiency and movement remains Arsenal’s forte. Theo Walcott apparently personifies the stereotypical anatomy of English football; that of “kick and rush.” All running and no brain he is, according to Chris Waddle. His exclusion from the England squad indicates that Fabio Capello is looking for a [...]
Ten conclusions to make from Arsenal’s season
Despite another implosion late in the season, the Gunners have plenty of positives to take forward to next season. 1. Arsenal have learned how to defeat the “lesser” sides The fact that Arsenal remained in the title race for as long as they did, despite losing both times to Manchester United and Chelsea, and falling [...]
Analysing Arsenal’s pressing system
Arsenal’s pressing game has suffered since the start of the season mostly due to a matter of distances. Shortened names are all the rage these days. From Subo (Susan Boyle), R-Pat (Robert Pattinson) and Brangelina (Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie), it’s a wonder they still haven’t thought of one for Babyshambles front man Pete Doherty. And after [...]
Older posts →