Arsenal can feel rejuvenated, they can feel like it once again. A heavy burden has been lifted off their shoulders, but not only did that win against Man Utd send Arsenal into the semi-final of the FA Cup and banish all doubts about Arsenal’s ability to win at big away matches, it definitely will galvanise the squad with confidence, massive confidence.
It was a performance of great character once again, and Wenger showed tactical flexibility, a contrast to the ‘ineptitude’ that people often criticise him of. Starting Welbeck instead of Giroud, was a very bold move considering the form Giroud was in, and that Welbeck’s last goal came back in December. However, it proved to be a stroke of tactical masterclass from the manager as playing Welbeck upfront gave us greater mobility and pace to constantly press and launch counter attacks devastatingly, and its no doubt that it was his relentless energy and pressing that haunted the United defenders, and ultimately earning his reward from Valencia’s incisive through ball.
The manager also stuck with his midfield of Ozil, Cazorla and Coquelin, and all three proved to be brilliant again. Mixed with guile and industry, the trio were brilliant in transitioning from defence to attack in a swift. Coquelin proved to be the important shield infront of the back four again, patrolling the areas and sticking to Fellaini. He put in another masterclass as he nullified the aerial threat and presence that Fellaini brings, winning 10 of his 12 duels with the Belgian. Seizing the midfield with hunger and determination, he allowed creativity and guile to flow from his counterparts, Cazorla and Ozil. While both are undeniably brilliant and dazzling on the ball, the two were astounding in their high-octane pressing off the ball, as well as sitting back in compact shape when they weren’t pressing. While many were surprised at the rather lightweightness of the midfield with Cazorla and Ozil, all doubts were perished at the final whistle as the two mixed sleek brilliance with discipline and industry, winning the all important midfield battle.
Nacho Monreal once again seized his opportunity when it mattered, and this season up till now, will have very fond memories of going to Manchester. Following up his astounding display at the Etihad, he had an excellent performance at Old Trafford, adding a tangible contribution with a smart and composed finish. Coming back immediately to replace Gibbs who has done quite well in his absence, he has made an explosive return, snapping up at Di Maria whenever he got the ball, and dealing well with the double threat of the Argentinian and the overlapping Valencia.
Arsenal might have had lesser possession yesterday, but that has been the increasing sign nowadays of a positive Arsenal win, with them winning 10 of our 14 games with significant lower possession of the ball. Arsenal can rely on their plan B against the big sides, knowing that they can threaten on the counter attack with pace and power, while either sitting back in a compact shape or pressing high up the pitch as they did at Old Trafford, with Wenger saying that, ‘Mentally we were prepared and started on the front foot without any apprehension’. Pressing high up the pitch is also made further available by the pace and energy of Welbeck, and all these contributes to another brilliant orchestrated victory from the manager.
While the rivalry between the two might not be as intense and fiercely-fought, (literally), yesterday proved to be a significant victory that will surely bolster the squad’s confidence nevertheless, knowing that they can beat the big sides convincingly. And great credit to the manager too for his tactical flexibility, making bold decisions in such a big match. Not bad for a ‘tactically inept’ manager. Well done Arsenal.
