Arsenal face Ludogorets in what is likely to be a straightforward, yet must win, game for the Gunners.
Saturday’s result was positive but the performance was mixed and the team set up was slightly different in terms of the front three. Whilst usually sticking wide, Swansea’s constant attention on Alexis Sanchez meant that Theo Walcott was allowed to move infield more often and reap the rewards, while Sanchez took on more of a creative role.
It’s unlikely to be the same front three for the Ludogrets game. We may see Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, more of a ‘beat your man’ traditional winger rather than a goalscorer come in. I also wouldn’t be surprised to see Lucas Perez come in, either on the wing or up front. Still, Arsene’s tactical plan of a more mobile striker in the front three will still be in effect.
Ludogorets themselves are nothing special, with a solitary point from the last two European games. However, they will be aiming for a Europa League spot so any point is valuable and I can see them sitting deep this game to try and eke out a 0-0.
Tending to play a 4-4-1-1, the key offensively for Arsenal will be the domination of the ball in midfield, where they can find space in 3 vs 2 situations, and they should try to bring in Hector Bellerin, who’s attacking outlet has been fantastic recently.
A right back bombing forward not only negates the opposition’s left winger but provides an extra runner to create space or get on the end of things.
The midfield pivot may be Granit Xhaka, on account of his lack of future domestic involvement for the foreseeable future, and Santi Cazorla – both creative players, it’s certainly what is needed to break down deep block defences.
