Arsenal's Match week 21 Analysis | Tactical Challenges

Arsenal's Match week 21 Analysis | Tactical Challenges

Arsenal's Gabriel Martinelli (second right) celebrates scoring their side's fourth goal of the game during the Premier League match at the Emirates Stadium, London. Picture date: Saturday January 20, 2024(Image-Getty)

 Arsenal's Tactical Concerns: Analysis and Areas for Improvement in Matchweek 21

Arsenal faces challenges in their attack and tactical approach. Here's a detailed breakdown:

1. Scoring Struggles:

   - Initial 10 matches: 23 goals; Next 10 matches: 14 goals.

   - Recent blanks at home emphasize the need for sharper finishing against Crystal Palace.

2. Wasteful Finishing:

   - Front four's shot conversion rates have dropped significantly.

   - Martinelli's alarming dip from 27.27% to 9.09% raises concerns.

   - Lack of a prolific striker emphasizes the need for collective goal contributions.

3. Goal Distribution:

   - Last season's success with multiple goal scorers (88 goals) contrasts with recent struggles.

   - Heavy reliance on forwards to contribute consistently, impacting recent performances.

4. Build-up Issues:

   - Slow and formulaic build-up, lacking the sharp combinations seen in the 2022/23 campaign.

   - Over-reliance on Saka and Martinelli, making attacks predictable and easier to defend against.

   - Slower pace in build-up contributing to fewer quality chances created.

5. Finishing Confidence:

   - Inability to convert shots inside the box, leading to high numbers of blocked attempts.

   - Confidence issues evident, with players delaying shots and facing a significant number of blocks.

6. Second-Half Struggles:

   - Recent matches show a decline in second-half performance, with a lack of shots on target.

   - Arsenal aims to sustain pressure for longer periods in the second half, addressing recent downturns.

7. Winter Break Impact:

   - Arsenal's winter break came at an opportune time to address jaded displays.

   - A warm-weather training camp in Dubai aims to rejuvenate the team for the second half of the season.

8. Areas for Improvement:

   - While a new signing could boost the attacking options, immediate focus on tactical, physical, and technical improvements.

   - The team possesses quality, but refinement is essential for a strong push in major competitions.

Arsenal aims to overcome these challenges and elevate their performance under Arteta's guidance.