If you’ve been anywhere near the internet over the past 6 months, it is almost a guarantee that you will have read about the rumours linking Julian Draxler to Arsenal. A plethora of news outlets have tipped the German youngster to a North London move, with both the player and club supposedly keen on wrapping up a deal. However while Draxler is certainly a brilliant prospect, the same questions linger. Why on earth are Arsenal, a team currently blessed with the likes of Cazorla, Özil, Walcott, Podolski, Rosicky, Chamberlain and others, linked with another attacking midfielder? And if he does end up at the club, how will he affect the current setup?
While Draxler is able to play as a left winger, central attacking midfielder, and possibly even striker, he currently resides on the left for Schalke 04. His blend of pace, vision and technique make him perfect for the wide playmaker role, enabling him to either hug the touchline and run at the defence or cut inside and dictate from the middle. Should he move to Arsenal, he would likely start his Gunners career at that position. This would primarily affect 3 players: Lukas Podolski, Santi Cazorla, and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.
German striker Lukas Podolski has had a mixed career at Arsenal. A fan favorite, “Poldi” is best known for his work rate, finishing, and cannon of a left foot. However while he started his time at Arsenal in flying form, the last few months have been downright disastrous to say the least. Podolski lost his first choice left wing role last February, and has yet to fully gain it back. He has been plagued with injury and poor form, and looks likely to be on his way out of the club next summer. The addition of Draxler would almost certainly push him closer to the exit door. Already a backup, adding another left winger would likely guarantee even less playing time for Podolski. While his passion for Arsenal is as evident as ever, no one could blame him if he does decide to move on next summer. A player of Podolski’s calibre, one who has been capped by Germany over 100 times, deserves consistent minutes. Adding Julian Draxler would ensure that he does not receive that.
Spanish midfielder Santi Cazorla may also feel the effects of such a signing. An attacking midfielder by trade, Cazorla’s usual position for Arsenal is also on the left wing. Theo Walcott’s pace and runs behind the defense are indispensable on the right, and Mesut Özil’s visionary brilliance from the CAM position make him undroppable as well. Therefore, Wenger would have to drop Cazorla in order to fit Draxler into the side, making him a backup for all 3 attacking midfield positions. This may seem negative at first glance, but signing Draxler could potentially do wonders for both Cazorla and Arsenal. As he nears 30, it seems possibly problematic for the Spaniard to play as consistently as he has in recent months. While his technique and vision are always of service to the side, Arsenal run the risk of overplaying Cazorla, and losing him to fatigue or injury. Should another attacking midfielder such as Draxler join the club, Cazorla would be able to perform with more freedom, knowing that a substantial amount of pressure has been lifted off his shoulders. Additionally, moving Cazorla into a rotating role could be a blessing in disguise for Arsenal as a whole. Over the past few years, the club has been absolutely plagued by injuries to crucial players. As he can play virtually every midfield position, Cazorla would be able to slot in anywhere that is required, creating more depth and security within the side. Even though Draxler would likely hinder Cazorla’s playing time, he could also have a positive effect on both Cazorla and the club.
In addition, adding Draxler would create interesting ramifications for Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain. The young Englishman began his time at Arsenal on the wing, using his dynamic mix of pace and power to devastate opposing full backs. While he has been tipped by both his father and Arsene Wenger as a future box to box midfielder, the general assumption has been that Aaron Ramsey and Jack Wilshere will keep him on the left wing for the time being. However should Draxler join, that all changes. With the German starting on the left more often than not, Oxlade-Chamberlain would be forced to vye for a consistent spot in the centre of the midfield, in an effort to avoid the Arsenal bench. And given his masterclass midfield performance vs. Crystal Palace, who’s to say he won’t be able to manage it. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is an absolutely incredible young prospect, and signing another winger could push him to change his playing style completely. Seeing how he adapts to the addition of Draxler would be a fascinating narrative for next season.
While playing Draxler as a left winger would cause numerous selection headaches for Arsene Wenger, an interesting idea has been suggested by many: play him as a striker. At 6’2”, Draxler certainly has the size to play such a role. His pace, strength and eye for goal also suggest that he may be able to eventually grow into the centre forward position. Should he be successfully transformed into a striker, Cazorla, Podolski and Chamberlain could rotate on the left, creating a deep, dynamic squad with much fewer selection issues. Banking on Draxler to assume the striking role is a long shot, but it certainly is worth a look if he does join. Playing him in such a position would fill a currently gaping hole in the Arsenal attack, and ensure more playing time for a large contingent of players.
Even with the potential issues, signing Draxler would be an absolutely brilliant coup for Arsenal. His talent alone justifies the massive price tag Schalke have slapped down on him, and the potential he possess is downright scary. Great teams always have competition for spots, and Arsenal are no exception. Yes, Draxler would create numerous dilemmas for Arsene Wenger and his staff. However given the versatility and talent of the current midfield, it shouldn’t be an issue. Regardless, the future looks bright for Arsenal. With players such as Draxler potentially joining, the sky is the limit.
