Piero Hincapie delivered an impressive performance for Arsenal in their Premier League match against Tottenham, stepping into the starting lineup as Gabriel continues his spell on the sidelines. The Brazilian is expected to be unavailable for several weeks, and Arsenal are now beginning to see the value of the depth they have built across the squad.
Hincapie Steps Up in Gabriel’s Absence
Before the derby, Mikel Arteta had the rare luxury of choosing between Ben White, Hincapie or Cristhian Mosquera to replace Gabriel, a situation that highlights the strength of Arsenal’s defensive options this season. The decision to select Hincapie proved to be the correct one, as the Ecuadorian seamlessly adapted to the demands of such a high-intensity fixture.
Alongside William Saliba, Hincapie ensured that Arsenal’s defence remained organised and composed throughout the game. The partnership functioned with a level of confidence that suggested minimal disruption despite the absence of one of the side’s most influential defenders. Both players would have been disappointed not to keep a clean sheet, particularly as the Tottenham goal could not fairly be attributed to either centre back. Nonetheless, the overall defensive display remained highly encouraging.
Performance That Strengthens His Case
According to Football Insider, Hincapie won all of his aerial duels and all of his tackles during the match, producing a commanding display that reaffirmed his readiness to perform at the highest level. Such statistics underline the quality of his contribution and reinforce the belief within the club that he is capable of handling major fixtures with authority.
Performances of this calibre inevitably strengthen his claim for continued selection in the starting eleven. With a crucial Champions League meeting against Bayern Munich approaching, Hincapie has done more than enough to position himself as a strong candidate to retain his place. His assured showing against Tottenham demonstrates that he can be relied upon in moments of pressure, providing Arsenal with valuable stability as they navigate a demanding period of the season.
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Spot on he was brilliant, carries on like this and big Gabs will have a problem getting back in the side
David,
Yes he did well, but he was hardly tested was he. Lets see how he handles Bayern Munich, now that’ll be a real test.
Lets all hope he comes through it if selected of course.🤷♂️
It’s not about “overtaking” in selection between these two. They are both excellent, but play different roles in the team. Hincapié is left-footed and naturally fills in or subs for Gabriel. Mosquera is right-footed and fills in for Saliba.
It’s not that hard. Arteta has always stated his goal is ultimately to have 2 excellent options for each position.
No, Hincapie is a left sided centerback. Simple really the closer comparison could have been calafiori can play in the same position. It’s not even a debate really!
Hincapie will need to be tested against better opposition before these types of “has he overtaken…?” judgments are made.
Having said that, we now have at least two reliable players in each back-four position.
Correction!!! At least three in each of the back four positions. They’re so interchangeable.
I don’t think Arteta sees Mosquera as a left CB. Yes two right footed CB’s can play together but a left footed player gives you better balance. Passing with your right foot facing the left is a little awkward and limits your passing range/options. It’s smoother and more natural if you use your left foot.
As such, Hincapie or Calafiori are the more natural replacements for Gabi. Mosquera is better used on the right.
I don’t think anyone overtakes anyone. The team needs everyone performing at the highest level possible, and ready to be deployed. Hencapie has shown what he’s capable of. That was one game. Mosquera has shown what he is capable of on a consistent basis, on more than one occasion. Strength of one only enhances that of the next player in team sport.
Mosquera was signed to cover for Saliba (and RB) and Hincapie to cover for Gabriel (and LB), so the answer to your question is no.