Reports linking Mathieu Debuchy to Arsenal have gained significant momentum in recent days, with reputable sources such as Sky Sports confirming that the deal is close. Additionally, the player himself controversially took ‘NUFC’ out of his Twitter biography, heating up rumours of a move away.
As per usual, there are a group of Arsenal fans – most-predictably the ones who want Wenger out and Thomas Vermaelen in defensive midfield – slating the deal, and finding every single negative detail to elaborate on and exaggerate to the maximum degree. Being an optimist myself, I believe that Debuchy would be a solid signing and, whilst he doesn’t merit the term ‘marquee’, he would do a good job of what is required.
When Bacary Sagna departed the Gunners for Manchester City, a huge void was left in the right full-back role. The Frenchman had occupied it, brilliantly for many a year and – as you’d expect – Arsenal were straight out into the market for a replacement. The excruciatingly thirsty Serge Aurier was the main name circulating, and he looked ideal at one point: he is young, an Arsenal fan, has versatility, pace, and almost the full package. The transfer fees predicted for the once-inevitable transfer were roughly £10m; what could go wrong?
Due to this, I feel that there is certainly reasoning to the Ivorian not being purchased. It would be a relatively swift deal by the looks of things: the player is clearly keen and the other club willing to sell. Consequently, if Wenger genuinely wanted the 21-year-old, he would most probably be in an Arsenal shirt already. You’re probably sitting there thinking ‘wow, why not go for Aurier? It’s so bloody obvious.’
I thought that at one stage too, but after further analysis, I’m beginning to see some method behind the madness.
The age difference between the two is a significant eight years. Initially, you’d think that the younger option is always the better option, but that logic is often flawed. Debuchy, who’s career has flown by, is obviously more experienced, both in the Premier League and in Europe. He has also played with Laurent Koscielny, arguably our main centre back, and speaks English almost fluently; much like his understanding of the English game now following 43 beneficial matches in a Newcastle shirt.
His age could, funnily enough, be beneficial in the long-run, too. Two young right-backs are currently emerging at Arsenal and both are looking promising. Both, though, are still undeveloped and at this moment in time, need another right-back ahead in the pecking order. Carl Jenkinson, who I adore by the way, is the first: a passionate, English right-back with unbelievable work rate. Someone who is known for his ‘banter’, Jenks is loved off the pitch and always gives his all on it. Harshly, though, his ability doesn’t excite me too much. He could potentially have a Ray Parlour-esque role: not the best technically but someone with priceless passion and someone, conveniently, ready to come in when needed. I don’t see him as a top quality first right back, though.
The other young right-sided defender coming through, though, gives me colossal hope: Hector Bellerín.
A fan of the Arsenal U21s, I have been exceedingly impressed by the young Spanish defender’s performances over the last eighteen months. I have genuine belief that he is the future in right back for Arsenal, and I’m sure many fellow avid fans of youth football will share that. The stereotypical full-back nowadays is someone who has pace, power, can cross and is good going forward. Not only is Bellerín good at that, but his unsung ability is the opposite. He uses his rapid sprint-speed very well defensively, ensuring that wingers don’t leave him behind them. He also boasts fantastic intelligence and understanding of the game, which proves to be key positionally – something that usually comes with maturity. A teenager, this is something that outlines the talent he has.
Signing Aurier, a long-term plan, would stunt both of these players. The latter especially, who is yet to break into the first team. Having two young players in his position ahead of him would affect his future negatively, and would probably lead to his career fizzling out slowly – and that would be a huge shame for the ex-Barcelona man, who deserves an opportunity to impress in the first team.
Debuchy, however, will do a good job for the next three years or so. When he he begins to age and consequently slow down his career, he will be able to ease in the youngsters whilst helping them by sharing some of his experience and expertise. His signing wouldn’t only be a long-term one, either: he is adequate at the moment and could definitely contribute to a title-challenging team. Internationally, the French tend to choose him over Bacary Sagna – the man he would be replacing – and this outlines the ability he has and how he is highly-rated amongst many. It also highlights that the gulf in class between the two isn’t a huge one.
The above image shows, albeit statistically, that the two aren’t too different in terms of class, and therefore show that Debuchy can do an adequate job at right back.
I, for one, think he’d be a solid option; whether you disagree or agree with me, I’m always up for a debate so feel free to utilise the below comments section or have a chat with me on Twitter.
