Wenger’s first choice XI once the German contingent becomes available by SE
Post his astute transfer acquisitions this summer, Wenger couldn’t have asked for more heading into the new season. But, the cherry was laid on top of the cake on Sunday, when Arsenal annihilated the Premier League Champions, Manchester City, to win the FA Community Shield.
Impressive performances were aplenty from the North London outfit, which had Cazorla and Chambers starring for them in their big win. As unfortunate as it could turn out to be, both Cazorla and Chambers might have to take their place on the Emirates bench come this Saturday or, at the latest, once the German contingent, returning from their World Cup triumph, becomes available for selection.
But, to put things into perspective: Wenger could have a couple of really tricky selection issues to address.
Chambers, being the youngster and more so a teenager, would have to make way for the lanky German Mertesacker, once he becomes available for selection. But Cazorla’s spot is both intriguing and apprehensive.
In what looks to be a shift in the system from 4-2-3-1 to 4-3-3, Arsenal’s engine room can hold 3 players, as opposed to two until last season. Mikel Arteta looks set to play as the Defensive Midfielder, as opposed to Jack Wilshere, who was said to land the ‘anchor role’ for Arsenal this season. Ramsey is possibly the first name on the team sheet, with the stature he has grown into. So it’s a toss up between Wilshere and Arteta – where one of them could make way for Cazorla, once Ozil returns.
Let us also not become oblivious to Cazorla being an Attacking Midfielder during his time in Spain, which is why Wilshere is in a huge spot of bother. As irrational as it sounds, Wilshere, in all probability, would have to make way for Cazorla, with Ozil playing as the Left-Winger.
Albeit the competition for places can lead to the manager having to make a tough decision or two, it bodes well for Wenger that he has a huge pool of players to choose from, with Arsenal involved in four competitions over the course of the season.
Wenger’s first choice XI:
Wojciech Szczesny(GK), Mikel Arteta(C), Mathieu Debuchy, Per Mertesacker, Laurent Koscielny, Kieran Gibbs, Aaron Ramsey, Santi Cazorla, Mesut Ozil, Olivier Giroud and Alexis Sanchez.