So much talk has been in the media about Pepe’s form since his arrival at Arsenal. Reasons have gone from his fitness level at the beginning of the season, to adaptation to the Premier league. Lately, some attributed the issue to lack of confidence.
I believe Pepe’s key problem is the effect of the team’s set up on the his skill set. The personnell who have played on the right side of the team don’t possess the natural skill to aid Pepe’s attacking prowess. No disrespect to Niles and Chambers who both have played their parts so far.
Two key contributions are required from an attacking winger. To provide goals to other attackers and/or to score goals themselves.
Most goal-providing wingers play from the side of their favoured foot. Left wing for left footer and right wing for right footer. To score goals, they either play by coming in from the opposite side to their favoured foot or play through the middle. Though a few one footer’s score classic goals from tight angles at the wing of their favoured foot. Robin Van Persie, though playing as central forward, scored a classic goal against Barcelona from such corners at the Emirates in 2011.
As Pepe’s potentials before he was purchased by Arsenal suggested, he is expected to score goals. For him to score goals, he has to play infield from the right side of the pitch, together with a good overlapping right full back. Here comes the need for Bellerin in the team to play to Pepe’s potential. Bellerin used to have problems with final deliveries into the attacking areas initially, but he has improved on that aspect of his game last season, and the prospects of Tierney will encourage him to improve further. Playing Bellerin will enable Pepe to play infield and get better supplies for him to score goals.
I see better days ahead. COYG.
by I