Experience the new reality of Arsenal as they embrace a different approach to regain their toughness. The north Londonders have strategically targeted players who can physically dominate their opponents, resulting in a beefed-up lineup with an impressive average height of 1.84 meters. This reminiscent of Arsenal’s formidable team in the 2003/04 season, where players like Sol Campbell, Patrick Vieira, and Thierry Henry reigned supreme.
With this physically imposing team, Arsenal appears well-prepared for the challenge that awaits them at Goodison Park against Sean Dyche’s team. This match may require Arsenal to win in a less aesthetic manner, as previous encounters between these teams have demonstrated.
Goodison Park has tested Arsenal’s physical resilience since Mikel Arteta’s appointment in 2019, with Arteta yet to secure a victory at his former club as a manager. However, Arsenal’s recent transformation suggests they are now better equipped to handle the challenges they face. Strength and power radiate throughout Arteta’s team, as witnessed in their recent triumph against Manchester United, where Arsenal’s outfielders boasted an average height over six feet compared to United’s average of 5ft 9in.
This newfound robustness was also evident in Arsenal’s second match of the season, where they endured 30 minutes with 10 men against Crystal Palace. It was a gritty and combative display that pleased Arteta, showcasing their ability to adapt to different playing styles. The defensive lineup featured towering players like William Saliba, Ben White, Thomas Partey, Gabriel Magalhaes, Jakub Kiwior, and Declan Rice.
Arteta acknowledges the importance of physicality for a successful squad, emphasizing the need for different profiles to excel in various scenarios. The signings of Gabriel and Partey in 2020, along with Saliba’s return from loan, already hinted at Arsenal’s intention to add physicality to their squad. However, the recent acquisitions of Havertz and Rice have truly made a significant difference this season. Rice, known for his physical dominance in midfield, has instantly impressed Arteta with his qualities. Havertz, standing at 6ft 3in tall, adds height and power to the midfield that was previously occupied by Granit Xhaka.
Under Arsene Wenger, Arsenal experienced a curious transformation in their physical profile. Initially, Wenger’s team comprised powerful athletes with technical skill, but later shifted towards smaller, more agile players. This change resulted in Arsenal being perceived as weak in hostile environments. Arteta, who played under Wenger during this transition, aims to ensure his current squad does not suffer the same fate.
The modern game demands a blend of strength and skill, as exemplified by teams like Manchester City. Arteta’s new version of Arsenal aims to match City’s power and poise with their own combination of physical prowess and technical finesse.
Don’t miss the intense clash between Everton and Arsenal, live on Sky Sports tomorrow at 4:30.
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