The Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has stated that he will be looking to continue his side’s progress in the new 3-4-2-1 system next season, after an impressive end to the campaign,
The new system accommodates three centre-backs, two wing-backs, but only two advanced midfield players and one striker. This limits the amount of advanced players needed in the squad, whilst also changing the type of player needed.
Alex Iwobi broke through the ranks to earn a place in the Arsenal first-team squad in during the 2015-16 season, but has not started a single match since the club’s change in formation. His favoured role in behind the striker is predominantly taken by Mesut Ozil and Alexis Sanchez at present, and despite rumours that one or both could leave, they will most certainly be replaced in the side should they depart.
Theo Walcott is in a similar position, having lost his regular starting role in the side after the system change, regardless of his best goalscoring campaign of his career. The speedy winger is being linked with a move to West Ham, but I’m not sure the England international would even consider a move had we remained in the 4-2-3-1 set-up.
Francis Coquelin could also find himself surplus to requirements, with his defensive skill set made near redundant with the extra cover. Aaron Ramsey and Granit Xhaka have stamped their mark down on the starting roles since the switch, while Mohamed Elneny and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain are also in line action ahead of Le Coq. This is before any signings are made also, with the possibility of new competition for the role…
Does Iwobi deserve to be challenging for one of the two advanced roles? Could he provide cover at wing-back? Doe Coquelin still have a role in the squad?
Pat J