Andrey Arshavin set for Arsenal 'Playmaker' role

Tomorrow, Arsenal face Blackburn with no less than three first team midfielders missing, as well as a lingering question mark over Aaron Ramsey’s fitness ahead of the game. This has led to speculation that Arsene Wenger has been considering playing Andrey Arshavin in a new role within the side.

The rumours started earlier today; stating that the 30-year-old Russian is set to play in the advance midfield role, which has been occupied by three other players this season; by Yossi Benayoun against Borussia Dortmund, Aaron Ramsey against Swansea, and the departed Samir Nasri against Liverpool.

Cesc Fabregas played the majority of this position last season, with Jack Wilshere and Alex Song the two deeper players. Now it seems, with Tomas Rosicky and the aforementioned Wilshere both out with injuries, it seems Wenger could overlook Benayoun and play Arshavin in support of Van Persie.

Now of course, every Arsenal fan knows Andrey Arshavin has undoubted ability. He has a fair amount of pace, and relies on his tricky footwork and skill to take on opponents. He has spent the majority of his Arsenal career on the left side of the front three in Arsenal’s 4-2-3-1 formation. More of an inside forward rather than an out and out winger (which Walcott is on the right flank).

It paid dividends last season, as he racked up 17 assists in all competitions last season. His best tally since the 2007 season, where he was playing in Russia with Zenit St. Petersburg.

Now, this opportunity for Arshavin, would allow him to revert to the position he played so successfully for Zenit and for Russia. Most recently, Russian national team manager Dick Advocaat criticized Arsene Wenger saying he was using Arshavin incorrectly, and that he would more affective playing behind the striker. In the manner of how Dennis Bergkamp used to play.

Now, obviously Arsene Wenger doesn’t pay attention to what other managers say, but it would seem that option was always in the back of his mind, more so with the two big departures this season, and tomorrow he’ll get the opportunity to prove his worth.

With Gervinho brought in to play on the left flank, effectively taking Arshavin’s place, it seems that with the exit of Samir Nasri and Cesc Fabregas, that attacking midfielder/playmaker role is up for grabs. Tomas Rosicky was the obvious option, but after his injury two seasons ago, he hasn’t been the same since, and hasn’t impressed. With Jack Wilshere out injured, our ready-made replacement for Fabregas, Arshavin could now step in to fill the void.

Arshavin hasn’t overly impressed over past two seasons, and his bad habit of cutting back in when playing wide left, taking on a defender, cutting back onto his right foot and eventually losing the ball, which has been frustrating for all. He’s also always been a candidate for substitution due to his average performances.

To play in this attacking midfielder role, he’ll need to be more disciplined, as he gets extremely lazy out on the left, and doesn’t track back. This new role can’t be used as an excuse for him now calling himself a forward, and not press from the front. His tracking back has become anonymous, and it has frustrated a large majority of the Arsenal supporters.

He was excellent in this playmaker role at Zenit, under the management of Advocaat. His creativity during this periods, as well as his form, was superb. His vision, threading passes to the forwards, after receiving the ball on the turn and running at defences. He’d receive these passes from the likes of Tymoshuk, Zyranov and Denisov in the 4-3-3 formation which led to Arshavin in a free role behind striker Pavel Pogrebnyak/Fatih Tekke. This is the side that won the 2008 UEFA Cup and the basis for this example.

Blackburn are expected to line up with two central midfielders, N’Zonzi and Dunn, however due to their precarious position in the league, and the pressure on manager Steve Kean, I think they might put another midfielder in the middle. This would mean an extra man to deal with the threat of Arshavin and gladly it show Arsenal fans whether AA23 could actually play that role.

If it was a simple 4-4-2 by Blackburn, the two Arsenal centre midfielders would compete with Rovers two, leaving Arshavin to roam behind the midfield and in-between the lines. Pretty much giving him the opportunity to play effectively. One way to combat Arshavin, would be to have one of the centre backs step up and interject whenever he picks up the ball. I don’t exactly think Samba or Dann are quick enough to afford to get caught on the turn so it’ll be intriguing to see how Steve Kean plays it.

I hope to see an improved Arshavin this season. He was culpable, just as much as anyone else in the side that were responsible for the 8-2 hammering. Hopefully will grasp this new opportunity with both hands, as it could rejuvenate him and his Arsenal career.

This was a guest blog post by a Tumblr blog called "Real Talk Arsenal" which can be found here http://realtalkarsenal.tumblr.com/

Champions League 11/12 Preview - Group F

Group F

Arsenal FC

Last season:

4th Premiership
Champions League, round of 16
Carling Cup runners-up

Manager: Arsene Wenger

Key Man: Robin Van Persie

Stadium: Emirates, capacity 60,361



Arsenal has finally put a summer of turmoil behind them, which saw them lose their talismanic captain Cesc Fabregas to Barcelona. Arsene Wenger responded by spending £50 million on nine new players this summer to add depth to his squad. It’ll be interesting to see how they respond, and whether the staggering amount of injuries could make the group difficult to navigate. Arsenal overcame Udinese in a tricky two-legged tie in the qualifying round.

I had Jack Wilshere at the club’s key player, but due to his ankle injury, he won’t feature in any of the group matches, a big miss. New signings Mikel Arteta and Yossi Benayoun will look to impress for their new club at the highest level.

Best Starting XI:



Olympiacos FC

Last season:

1st Greek Super League
Europa League third qualifying round

Manager: Ernesto Valverde

Key Man: Kevin Miralles

Stadium: Karaiskakis, capacity 33,334



In a same group as Arsenal two years ago, Olympicos qualified ahead of AZ Alkmaar and Standard Liege, and also beat Arsenal 1-0 on their way. The Greek side are coming off a successful league campaign last season where they won the title by 13 clear points, and conceded 18 goals in 30 matches.

Best Starting XI:



Olympique de Marseille

Last season:

2nd Ligue 1
Coupe de la Ligue winners
Trophee des Champions winners
Champions League, round of 16

Manager: Didier Deschamps

Key Man: Loic Remy

Stadium: Stade Velodrome, capacity 60,031



Didier Deschamps’ side has an array of attacking individuals in his starting line up, and young exciting players from the bench. It would seem Marseille are strong in knockout matches, collecting two domestic trophies last season. They’ll look to improve on their round of 16 finish, losing to eventual finalists Manchester United last year.

Best Starting XI:



Borussia Dortmund

Last season:

1st Bundesliga
Europa League group stage

Manager: Jurgen Klopp

Key Man: Mario Gotze

Stadium: Signal Iduna Park, capacity 80,720



Dortmund returned to the summit of German football, winning their first domestic title for nine years. Manager Jurgen Klopp had the Black and Yellows playing some sensational attacking football which blew their opponents away. Not to discredit their defence either, the likes of Neven Subotic and Mats Hummels saw them only concede 22 goals, the best defensive record in the league.

They’ve lost one of their best players; Nuri Sahin to Real Madrid, but still has undoubtedly quality in Mario Gotze and Shinji Kagawa in midfield, and Lucas Barrios up front. A tough team, and could run out group winners.

Best Starting XI:

Barclays Premier League 2011/12 Preview - Arsenal

Arsenal



Manager: Arsene Wenger



Captain: Cesc Fabregas



Last Season: 4th



In:

Gervinho– Lille – £10 million

Carl Jenkison – Charlton Athletic – £990,000

Alex Oxlade Chamberlain – Southampton – £10 million



Out:

Jens Lehmann – Retirement

Mark Randall – Chesterfield – Free transfer

Denilson – Sao Paulo – Loan

Jay Emmanuel Thomas – Ipswich Town – £1 million



Transfers correct as of 08/08/11





This Season:



Another tough season ahead for Arsene Wenger’s men. With the imminent departure of Cesc Fabregas, the weight of responsibility and expectation falls onto that three man midfield; Alex Song, Jack Wilshere and Samir Nasri. Song had a great season last year, Wilshere was the standout young performer in the Premiership, while Nasri had a brilliant first five months but his influence over the team wore off towards the end of the season. Don't expect many comments on Fabregas here because he doesn't want to play for the club so why burden the fans with paragraph's of text on a man who has shown a distinct lack of interest in the feelings of the loyal supporters, anyway's lets move on!



Arsenal going forward always look more than capable, Theo Walcott and Robin Van Persie must stay fit in order for Arsenal to challenge for silverware, while Andrey Arshavin will continue in his same lazy but brilliant manor, and it will be interesting to see how Gervinho and his direct, and off the ball movement fares for him in the Premier League.





Defensive is arguably Arsenal biggest weakness, but they'll be strengthen by the return of heir apparent "new captain" Thomas Vermaelen. The Belgian international was a huge miss last season, and is expected to instil the much needed toughness Arsenal requires. Laurent Koscielny was great in spells last season, but clearly struggled in certain areas, in a league where you can only learn from your mistakes. He wasn’t expected to be thrown in the deep end as quickly as he was, but partnering Vermaelen this season will help him become an excellent centre back. Djourou and Squilacci will provide adequate cover, but the less the latter plays; the better for Arsenal fans.



At full back, Wenger has put his faith in Kieran Gibbs and although he has great potential, what he lacks in experience, he makes up for in ability. If he can stay fit, he’ll have a make or break season with the Gunners, and it’ll be time to see what he’s made off. Bacary Sagna at right back is one of the most consistent in Europe, and I’m sure the promising Carl Jenkinson is one for the future.



Finally Wojceich Szczesny will be the number one, and Wenger is not the only manager in the Premier League putting his faith in a young keeper. Szcezesny has the ability, but needs to prove it at the vital moments in the big games.



Arsenal will have another strong season, but I don’t see them getting anywhere near the Premiership title. Wenger has got rid of some of the dead wood from the squad; the side have learnt valuable experience from last season, but he has failed to strengthen defensively for my liking. Expect a strong start to the season, and to tail off towards the latter stages. Without signing a new defender, missing out on Juan Mata, and not even considering replacing the calamitous Gael Clichy, a cup competition is Arsenal’s best hope this season, and I feel I’m being kind by predicting them to finish fourth, although I believe they won’t drop out of the Champions League places, with or without Cesc Fabregas.



Prediction: 4th



Best Starting XI





One to watch this season: Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain



Where do you think Arsenal will finish this season? Leave a comment below, or vote in our poll.



Real Talk Football

Who is Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain?

Arsenal today completed the signing of one of the most coverted young footballers in the England, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain from Championship side Southampton.

As usual, it’s an undisclosed fee, but it’s believed the transfer is totalled at £10 million, with an initial £5 million paid up front, and the remaining portion of the fee available through add-on’s.



With this much money being spent on 17 years old, Arsenal fans may be disappointed that Arsene Wenger hasn’t used the money towards bringing in a new centre back, or on strengthening other areas of the squad, with fans still pining for a new goalkeeper or a marquee signing such as Juan Mata. Nevertheless the way this deal was pushed through so quickly, show's Arsenal still have the capability to make a deal happen if necessary.



To understand why Wenger has decided to sign the winger, Real Talk Football brings you all you need to know about the young winger.





Chamberlain, who is an England under-18 international, is another product of Southampton’s excellent youth academy, which has previously produced such talents including Gareth Bale, current Arsenal striker Theo Walcott, as well as established Premier League players: Wayne Bridge and Chris Baird.



He joined Southampton’s youth system when he was just 7 years old, and after 9 years with the club, he made his professional debut against Huddersfield Town, aged 16. Since his debut, he went on to make 34 first team appearances for the South coast club, scoring 10 goals and getting 8 assists.



He has blistering pace, combined with flair, all the attributes which make him a tricky winger capable of chipping in with goals, leaves the possibility of him converting into a striker at some time in the future, which has been predicted for Chamberlain by his current coaches.





Former Southampton manager Alan Pardew, who gave Chamberlain his professional debut, commented on the then 16 year old saying;



“You have to understand that his age is irrelevant if is he good enough, and he is good enough”



Chamberlain has obviously been compared to Theo Walcott, but he is more of a box-to-box midfielder, who began his career as a centre midfielder who subsequently was shifted onto the wing. He is seen as extremely "devoted and hard working" who has trained hard in order to dissolve criticism regarding his strength and weight. He is capable of switching wings, and his pace is undoubtedly his best attribute.



He was named in the League One Team of the Year for the 2010/11 campaign. A fantastic achievement.



Here's all you need to know



Age: 17



D.O.B: 15/08/1993



Height: 5ft 11’



Nationality: English



Position: Right Winger/Centre Midfield



Previous Club: Southampton



Club Apps: 34 Club Goals: 10



Transfer Fee: £5million (£10million)



Strengths: Pace, Crossing ability and temperament



Weakness: Untried at the highest level, big price tag



Click below for a video of Arsenal’s new signing, and leave your comment below.







Real Talk Football



www.twtter.com/RealTlkFootball

Who is Joel Campbell?

I have been keeping an eye on this year’s Copa America tournament in Argentina, and while Japan was expected to take part as a special guest of the tournament, they had to withdraw due to the Tsunami disaster. CONMEBOL, South America’s football governing body subsequently sought a replacement; they looked to Central America; Costa Rica. An invitation to the tournament they duly accepted, and take this as an opportunity to test out what was essentially an under 23 squad, given this was their second major tournament this year, after the Gold Cup.

With this opportunity, and the young squad, it was a chance for a young Costa Rican to display his ability at a football tournament which has gained more television exposure than ever before. I was watching the highlights of the Group A match between Costa Rica and Bolivia, an entertaining game with two players sent off for Bolivia and Costa Rica running out 2-0 winners. There was one individual who was the stand out performer in the win, and this was a young man only earning his fifth international cap, and that was 19 year old Joel Campbell.

Campbell impressed with his dynamic pace, skill, flair and sheer tenacity. He’s a left footed forward player who is not afraid to take a shot on goal from outside the box, something which will be music to Arsenal fans ears. He is also a admirable set piece taker, and has shown composure in front of goal at international level.


Before the tournament he was linked with a move to Sunderland, but now it seems one of the biggest clubs in Europe, with Arsenal still seen as one of the best clubs for young talent to come, nurture their potential and be having the prospect of being given a first team opportunity.

Joel Campbell is a very promising player, and will be a good piece of business for Arsenal, costing just £900,000. The players father has already said that the medical in San José, Costa Rica, with members of the Arsenal club supervising. He is expected to complete his move from Costa Rican side Deportivo Saprissa, and he will be loaned out for the forthcoming season, because he hasn’t played the full number of required senior internationals to achieve a work permit.

Here’s all you need to know

Age: 19

Date of birth: 26/06/1992

Nationality: Costa Rican

Position: Forward

Club: Arsenal

Previous Club: Deportivo Saprissa

Club Apps: 3 Club Goals: 0

International Apps: 6 International Goals: 2

Transfer Fee: £900,000



Real Talk Football

Follow me on Twitter @RealTlkFootball

Who is Gervinho?

With all the negative press surrounding Arsenal this week, month even, Arsenal fans would be forgiven for not being so forgiving when it comes to discussing matters relating to their team. Apparently no one wants to play for Arsenal, Arsenal are no longer a big club, Arsenal wont make the Champions League blah blah blah we’ve heard it all before. No doubt rival clubs are licking their lips at the implosion on the horizon for the North London club, but let’s look at the reasons to be optimistic.

Arsenal is indeed in the Champions League, and I believe have qualified for the last twelve seasons in row, Arsenal bookworms please confirm. They first name out the door is Gael Clichy. A good attacking full-back who is not so solid defensively, with a knack for detrimental lapses in concentration which have proven costly to Arsenal on many memorable occasions, leaving the Emirates (I wish Arsenal had given a more sentiomental name rather than selling the rights to an Airline company) than any of the more important names like a Robin Van Persie or a Theo Walcott.

Thomas Vermaelen is back, and he will indeed be like a “new signing”, and with the drama surrounding Samir Nasri, and his contract negotiations, Arsenal are not under any pressure to sell and I’m sure Wenger will go out of his way to convince him to stay. The only name most likely to follow not-so-much fans favourite Gael Clichy out the door is Cesc Fabregas. As soon as Barcelona stump up the fee and stop trying to “mug Arsenal off” the sooner he can pack his bags and watch all the Formula 1 he likes. Oh and be a member of the Barcelona squad, and be that all important “super-sub”. Anyhow, this isn’t about Fabregas, greedy football players or Arsenal hear say. This is about the new striker expected to hit these shores, and hopefully for Arsenal fans, not be tired after just five months!

Gervais Yao Kouassi, known commonly as Gervinho, is a 24 year old winger who has established himself as one of the top attackers in French football. He’s a member of the Lille side which won both the Ligue 1 title and the French Cup last season. He chipped in with 15 goals and 10 assist in Lille’s all conquering campaign.

Gervinho started his career with Belgian side KSK Beveren, a club known for developing Ivory Coast players, and were once Arsenal’s “feeder club” through a co-operations deal between the two clubs. His stats for the Jupiler League side were 14 goals in 61 appearances. He moved to France in the summer of 2007 joining Le Mans. He was an instrumental member of the side, and hit 14 goals in 67 appearances for MUC 72.

After two seasons at Le Mans, he joined ambitious side Lille. In his first season, he hit 13 goals in 32 appearances helping Les Dogues finish 4th and securing a Europa League spot. In the 2010/11 season, he joined as part of an attacking Lille front three consisting of Left Winger Eden Hazard, poacher Moussa Sow and Gervinho making up the right side of the three. He hit 15 goals and 10 assists, and helped Lille complete the domestic double.

He’s seen as an erratic player, with fantastic ability and a knack for making things happen. He has a ridiculous hairstyle, but who cares, that’s got absolutely nothing to do with Football. He is a pacey wide man, with flair and skill who is not afraid to take players on. He has great timing, and the ability to arrive late at the far post, and pop up with tap-ins when required.

He has been likened to Samuel Eto’o, as well as Robert Pires. Two contrasting players, but both Football icons in their own right. If Gervinho performs within an inch of their levels, he will be a valuable asset to Arsene Wenger.

Gervinho can play as part of a 4-3-3 formation, either on the left or the right. He likes to cut inside onto his stronger foot from the left, while he is just as suited to flying down the right flank. It’ll be interesting to see if he makes up an Arsenal front three, similar to Lille’s successful style last season, with say Walcott and Robin Van Persie. Their pace will cause all kinds of trouble for opposition defences.

One final note is that Arsenal fans have showed disappointment already at the nature of the signing, and the fact that negations and talks have taken so long. He has passed as medical, and the deal has been rumoured to be pushed back until Monday. First talk of this transfer came to the forefront about three weeks ago, and fans are becoming frustrated at the manner in which Arsenal are fixing the transfer. Although the fans, and very patient they are, know that Arsenal are renowned for taking their time over transfer deals, so maybe fans should cut them a little slack in that department.

As for the calibre of signing, Gervinho is a very good player and could be great for Arsenal. Fans need to get behind the 24 year old, as he is a player who is determined to join the Gunners and perform at the highest level, Arsenal fans should be excited. Gervinho didn’t necessarily need a transfer, he won two trophies last season, and Lille are guaranteed a spot to be competing in the Champions League next season. It’s a big opportunity for him and a good prospect for Arsenal (should all the formalities go through).

Gervinho is improving vastly, and Arsenal fans should look forward to prospect of a new striker setting up at the Emirates. This will probably lead the way for Bendtner and Vela’s exit from the club.

Here’s a YouTube video of some of his best bits


Real Talk Football

Rumour Mill: Manchester City or Former Arsenal XI?

There are 2 rumours today floating around Eastlands and I can't see how this piece can be particularly long, in that both names get a big 'yes' from me....In the interests of being informative and interesting however I suppose I should go into a little bit of detail, lets take one of these at a time.  Firstly we might have an answer to the left back conundrum in French international Gael Clichy.


The flying left back is one of those players that is deceptively young, it feels as if he should be in his late 20s because of the fact he has been playing for what feels like eternity, but in fact he is only 25 so definitely no problems there.  It is clearly a position that we need to strengthen, and to be fair an area of the field where we have struggled for years, our defensive record from crosses is poor to say the least and I would wager that many of those crosses are coming from our left hand side.  I want Aleksandar Kolarov to work out but he just hasn't adapted to Premier League football as quickly as we would like and maybe a season rotating with a more experienced player will do him the world of good.

Of course we will be battling on an extra front next year, clearly it would be foolish to suggest that we have any real chance of winning the Champions League, but that doesn't mean we can't put in a decent showing.  Our squad is pretty light on experience of Europe's top competition but it is something that Clichy can provide by the bucket load and that is another real benefit.


He is quick, skillful, and useful in attacking areas, and whilst he may not be the best full back defensively, he is by no means one of the worst, and I personally think that makes him a more attractive proposition than say Leighton Baines.  The Everton defender is many peoples first choice, but I am slightly put off by the fact that it would cost over £20million to secure him, Clichy is rumoured to be available for £7million, surely that is better business?


The second possible signing I see as a lot less likely, but it would be one to really get excited about.  Samir Nasri has flattered to deceive at times during his Arsenal career, but in the last 18 months he has really started to show what he is capable of and I think he would be perfect for City.  Those lovely people at Talksport reckon that we are sniffing around and readying a bid of £20million, now before this gets dismissed out of hand, it is important to remember that the figure is slightly lower than what might be expected due to the fact he is in the last year of his contract.


There appears to be conjecture about the validity of this story, word on twitter originating from the Mirror claims that City 'sources' have confirmed interest in Clichy but denied we had made contact with Arsenal over a transfer for Nasri.  Clearly he would be a great addition to the squad, if he were to come in his link up play with Silva and the rest of the forward line could be a joy to behold, but just how likely is it?


Firstly there is rumoured to be strong interest from Manchester United and obviously that could present one or two problems, secondly is the ongoing Cesc Fabregas saga.  If, as expected, he moves to Barcelona over the next few days surely Arsene Wenger will do whatever he can to retain the former Marseille midfielder and offer him the wages that he is demanding to stay at the Emirates.

If I were a betting man I would say the signing of Clichy is highly likely, any move for Nasri though I just can't see at this point.  Since we withdrew from the Sanchez deal I think it might just be more rumour mongering from the tabloids, not that I wouldn't want him, I am just not sure I see it as being that likely, i'd love to be proved wrong though.....

Forget Sanchez, We Should Get This Guy Before Someone Else Does...

As many of you may have noticed over the past couple of months I have grown pretty sick of the whole Alexis Sanchez saga, and as that continues to move at the pace of glacier I can't help but feel that we are missing a trick.

I think a lot of my indifference is down to the fact that I think there is a far better option out there who I think would be far more open to a move to England and Manchester City in particular, that man is World Cup winner Juan Mata.


Many of you will already be totally aware of the 23 year old who has lit up this Summers Under 21 European Championships.  The young Spaniard came through the ranks at Real Madrid and was part of their 'B' squad, but he never managed to move on to the first team, their loss was Valencia's gain where he has gone on to prove himself to be a fine prospect and a real asset.  I think he could offer us a huge amount and potentially be better suited to the Premier League than Sanchez.

He is very quick, can go round a man, has good delivery and also is a very accomplished finisher.   At 23, he is somewhat of a rising star in Spain and although there are issues with his strength David Silva has proved that you don’t have to built like a brick outhouse to survive.

Playing Mata left, Johnson right, with Silva through the middle behind Tevez or Dzeko I think we would carry a real threat.  There is a buyout clause in the players contract at £40million, but with the Spanish club struggling financially it has been suggested he could be secured for closer to £30million.  With a good salary on offer and his friend Silva also at the club I think he could be very tempted.

To me it is somewhat of a no brainer, it would be cheaper and easier than bringing in a player, who lets be honest, appears to have no interest in playing for this club.  The tabloids today carry stories about interest from Liverpool and particularly Arsenal, claiming Wenger is ready to put together a bid of around £18million which, when compared to the ridiculous figures we are supposedly offering for Sanchez, seems a real bargain.

Clearly in reality it will cost more than £18million to secure the player, but it would still come in cheaper than Sanchez and I cannot reiterate enough how much better I believe Mata to be.  His relationship with David Silva also cannot be underestimated they played together for Valencia and were understood to have a good friendship, whether he can convince his former team mate that Eastlands is the place to be remains to be seen, but it is certainly an avenue to pursue.

Obviously I don't mean to sound alarmist, there is still plenty of time before the season starts, but I am getting a little concerned about the lack of transfer news at City.  I can't help but think that currently we have all of our eggs in one basket in Sanchez and that we could risk missing out on potential other signings in the process...

Who is Ricardo Alvarez?

With Arsenal fans crying out for Arsene Wenger to spend a little bit of cash and compete with the their Premiership rivals in this summer’s transfer window, on things such as a new centre back, a goalkeeper, or a striker. A player with experience, someone with commitment and a desire to win titles, an interesting transfer story broke yesterday afternoon from one of the most unlikely sources. Maurizio Zamparini, the president of Italian side U.S. Città di Palermo, declared their interest in Velez Sarsfield midfielder Ricardo Alvarez, yet curiously at the same time pulled his side out of the running for the signing of the 23 year old, claiming he had “already signed for the Gunners (Arsenal)”.

The 23 year old Argentinean has made 42 appearances for the Buenos Aires based club, and has chipped in with 5 goals. He is a left footed, attacking midfielder capable of operating on either the left side of midfield or in the central attacking midfield role. He is seen as more of a winger with flair, great technical abilities and dribbling skills.

He was first linked with the Gunners after Arsenal Chief Scout; Steve Rowley was seen assessing the Argentine playing for his club side in a Primera Division game last month. Rumours of a transfer fee of around £11 million have been touted in the British media. Now of course, this is just speculation at the moment, and we know Arsenal of all clubs, are the most secretive when it comes to transfers, and nothing can be confirmed until it’s on the clubs official website (forget BBC news, twitter or Sky Sports, it’s become accustomed to their recent transfers of the past few seasons).

Another intriguing underlying concept to this transfer story is that it came on the same day as Spanish giants rekindled their persistent pursuit of Arsenal’s club captain Cesc Fabregas, and made derisory £27 million bid. The Catolonia bred playmaker, who has a fondness for Arsenal and more specifically Arsene Wenger, has Barcelona in his blood, and is yet to commit himself to the North London side this summer. This has left some media outlets, and even Arsenal fans, sounding out Ricardo Alvarez as a replacement for the 24 year old Spanish World Cup winner.

Alvarez, a player with limited information available in the UK (but has lots of YouTube videos) is 6ft 2in with great balance and determination. He’s been compared to Robert Pires when he first joined from Marseille, and is said to impact games in spells, rather than be a persistent influence throughout the match (similar to the way he Andrey Arshavin has been playing of late, Arsenal fans will no longer allow passenger on the pitch anymore in my opinion).


It remains to be seen if this deal will actually materialise, and I could have wasted an hour writing this blog post up, but with the amount of Arsenal fans that have tweeted me asking about this “Alvarez bloke”, I thought I’d give some of the info I could actually find on the 23 year old. Arsenal apparently now only faces competition from Inter, Malaga, Sevilla, Schalke and Roma for Alvarez, and he reportedly has a £10.6 million release clause in his contract.

Here’s all you need to know

Age: 23 - April 12th 1988
Position: Left Winger, Attacking Midfielder, Second Striker
Club Apps: 42 Club Goals: 5
Honours:
Argentina Primera Division: 2009, 2011

Below is a video of the Ricardo Alvarez in action



Real Talk Football

Rumour Mill - Have we beaten Arsenal to Ivorian speed merchant?

Today has been a bit of a crazy day for a City fan, most days are full of rumours but today they seem more certain than ever.  This morning were the claims that we had completed the signing of Luka Modric spreading across twitter, and that it was 'imminent'.  Personally I never bought into that one and it seems to have gone particularly quiet ever since it first 'broke', the other rumour however could be a lot more likely.

Granted the source of the story is hardly the most reputable, but it seems more likely than Modric.  It seems pretty clear that we have been monitoring the future of Ivory Coast winger/striker Gervinho over recent weeks, and it was apparent that we were competing with Arsenal, the players preferred destination.

This afternoon however come claims from French footballing website 'Foot Mercato' that the deal is as good as done.  They claim that we have flexed our financial muscle and absolutely blown the Gunners out of the water.  The figure quoted on the website is about £15.5million, which is pretty hefty, especially considering his contract runs out next Summer.  Early rumours had suggested that Arsenal had tabled around £8-9million so clearly if the reported figure is correct Lille would prefer to sell to us.

The player on the other hand would apparently take some more convincing, the French media reports suggest that City will offer him astronomical wages to make the proposition of Eastlands more attractive than the Emirates.  The other point to consider would be the presence of Yaya and Kolo Toure who are both international team mates with the forward.

The 24 year old is known for both his speed as well as his final product.  He is comfortable playing on the wing or through the middle and would definitely offer something that we don't currently have.  Maybe I give more credence to the story purely because I would like it to come off.  Clearly this is very much up in the air, and not from the most reputable source, but i'd just love it to happen!

To add further uncertainty to the whole debate, Ian McGarry has just tweeted that the player will complete a move to Arsenal over the weekend, back to the drawing board then I suppose, who to believe....

The Cesc Fabregas Conundrum...

A common criticism of Manchester City is that their approach to football is similar to a game of Football Manager, and at times if the press are to be believed it can certainly seem that way.  Reports today are continuing to circulate that Roberto Mancini is seriously a considering a move for nowty Catalan and Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas.

The 'story' is clearly based on absolutely nothing concrete and is essentially just hearsay.  The Mirror reckon that Arsenal are so desperate to keep their captain that they would reject the £30million that supposedly Barcelona value him at, somehow the writer of the piece then jumps from that to City offering £50million, a sum which clearly would be accepted by the hierarchy at the Emirates.

I would never question the players ability, he is a top midfielder and would be a fine long term replacement for Xavi at the Nou Camp, but even if there was a grain of truth to such a story, would I really want City to pay £50million for a player that in all honesty I cannot stand.  It would be foolish to suggest that there isn't a place for him in the City midfield, De Jong, Fabregas and Toure has a fine ring to it, but I just can't feel this move would be far to 'Football Manager' for me.

As I have said previously Fabregas is a player of the highest quality, but there is something about him I cannot stand, his behaviour on the pitch irritates me and whilst he has is not one of the worst offenders for moaning and mouthing off, his regularity of doing it still grates on me.  That coupled with the ridiculous price tag just turn it into a deal that I can't get overly excited about.  I suppose in this market where Andy Carroll is worth £35million, £50mill for Fabregas is probably fair but it doesn't mean we should be paying it.

Even without my whole personal problem with the Spaniard, I think the chances of him agreeing to such a move are about as tiny as that of Dimitar Berbatov still being a United player next season.  For whatever reason Fabregas loves Arsenal, and Arsenal loves him back, the Mirror article contradicts itself by pointing out that he has himself stated that he would only ever play for the Catalans or the North London club, but then in the same story they claim a move to City could be in the offing.

Really all signs point towards some more low rent journalism in a tabloid, but it got me thinking that even though he's a great footballer, I hope we don't spend that sort of money on him....

Arsene Wenger's Title Aspirations Gone and Next Could Be His Legacy

Arsenal's capitulation in the final third of the season became all but complete, thanks to a 2-1 defeat to Bolton yesterday. This familiar end of season vibe really has come to no real surprise, as some argued it was simply a matter of time before Arsenal dropped out of the title race. Just to add insult to injury it seems they've even sacrificed runners-up spot to London rivals Chelsea. As I write this, this has basically become the norm for Arsenal fans over the past seven seasons.

I took my time to write this blog post as I wanted to get the full response from Arsenal fans, and let the dust fall from yesterdays defeat. I didn't want to hear hasty emotional responses with no real substance such as "Sack Wenger, hire Pep Guardiola and buy Lionel Messi!” The serious and somewhat emotional response I got was all too familiar; Wenger must change his philosophy or Arsenal must change their manager.

Now let's be clear, I think it’s fair to say that to some extent every football fan in the World can appreciate what Arsene Wenger has done for modern game, let alone the English premiership.

I understand that Arsenal excellent "self-sustaining business model" is an example of the correct way football clubs should be run.

I also appreciate the football players Arsene Wenger has developed into some of the best to ever play the game; names such as Vieira, Henry, Bergkamp, Pires, Fabregas, Campbell, Ljungberg and many more have all flourished under Wenger’s tutor ledge and won major honours, whether it be club or country level.

Now Wenger’s fully deserves these accolades and plaudits, but there is an undeniable black mark on Arsene Wenger’s track record, and that is that for six years (soon to be seven) he has failed to win any form of silverware with the North London side.

Now speaking frankly, if you were at any other big club, no matter what league it is or what the level may be, three years without a trophy let alone seven is a catastrophe. Especially considering the profit Arsenal have made over the past few years from selling on some of their well known players, not to mention the money they have made from the fans in ticket sales and merchandise.

Arsenal as perennial runners-up since their last trophy win
2004/05 – 2nd Premier League, FA Cup Winners
2005/06 – 4th Premier League, Champions League Runners-up, League Cup Semi-finals
2006/07 – 4th Premier League
2007/08 – 3rd Premier League
2008/09 – 4th Premier League, FA Cup Semi-finals, Champions League Semi-finals
2009/10 – 3rd Premier League
2010/11 – League Cup Runners-up



It would seem that if Mr. Wenger was a manager of a mid-table club, in which it's only ambitions were to be finishing in a relatively comfortable league position every year while working on a tight budget he would be one of the greatest managers in history, but he is the manager of Arsenal Football Club, one of the most successful and well supported clubs in European domestic football.

In no way am I saying Wenger should blow a load of money, and begin to work within dept, but I'm saying there are no more excuses and there is no excuses for him not to dip into the transfer market and sign either experienced class individuals (baring in mind experienced players does not have to be 30 plus, as a player like Gary Cahill is 25 years old and has vast Premiership experience), or either buy a difference maker. A proven match winner. Why? Because the period in which Wenger had to nurture and develop this current batch of players into world beaters, has been and gone (these past seven years).

I also feel it is now time to remove some of the dead wood from the squad, and add depth to an excellent starting XI. The main response from a select group of fans is the despite the good defensive record this season, the current back five just don't cut the mustard.

For me, the main culprit is Gael Clichy, and has been for some time. A new left back is needed, in part with a new central defender with Premiership experience and who can play at the highest level. Step forward a Gary Cahill or a Brede Hangeland. Either of these two would add some much needed steel to that shaky back four, and go some way to improving their poor set piece defensive record (Arsenal have conceded 20 goals from set plays this season, with only Blackpool, Sunderland, Aston Villa and West Brom conceding more).

At right back, Bacary Sagna is a very good and consistent footballer, but has no adequate cover. Emmanuel Eboue is now pretty much a right midfielder and his indecisiveness (and attacking mentality) makes him a liability at right back.

An all too familiar problem with Arsenal is their Goalkeeper. Since Jens Lehmann, Arsenal hasn’t had a reliable and class goalkeeper. A key attribute of being a goalkeeper, is having resilience and having character. Woljiech Szczesny has both of these attributes, but his lack of experience has faltered him twice this season. In the Carling Cup final where he was to blame for not taking control of simple defensive clearance, and in the 3-3 draw with rivals Spurs, giving away a rash penalty after Arsenal seemed likely to withstand the pressure and hold out for a win.

Now Szczesny should be the backup goalkeeper and learn the tricks of the trade from a world class experienced goalkeeper, for this, Mr Wenger must look no further that Manchester City's benchwarmer Shay Given.

Fabianski is unreliable, Almunia is most likely to leave in the summer, and if Lehmann’s experience is so vital, hand him a coaching role. The Arsenal board must put a bit of pressure on Arsene Wenger, but subsequently back him financially in pursuit of these players.


Up front, it’s simple; either get rid of the faltering 4-2-3-1 formation and switch to 4-4-2 or 4-4-1-1 to get the best out of Arsenal's strikers. Not only does this formation expose Arsenals fullbacks, but the high line imposed by Koscielny and Djourou makes them susceptible to the ball over the top, and also on the turn against quick strikers.

Also when players like Clichy, Sagna, Walcott or Nasri get the ball into wider areas, they deliver crosses in the box, aiming at one striker who is surrounded by five defenders. So it’s pretty much crossing to nobody. Two strikers up front (Bendtner or Chamahk with Van Persie) would mean they would obviously be the main target for these wasted crosses.

“Arsenal have completed 156 out of 813 crosses, giving them a 19% success rate, the 2nd worst after Man City”
Robin Van Persie is a world class striker and we have seen this since his return from injury, and it is vital for Arsenal to do everything within their power to make sure he gets adequate protection in order to stay fit for a whole season. Scoring in the 2-1 defeat yesterday meant he became the first striker to score away goals in seven consecutive games. Van Persie has also hit 18 goals in his last 19 appearances in all competitions. Vital.


On to Nicklas Bendtner, who has the qualities to be a very good striker, but he is very arrogant. He needs to prove himself on the football pitch, but currently isn't getting this opportunity under Wenger. A Bendtner/RVP combination I believe, could work since the two players styles complement each other quite well.

As for Marouane Chamahk; I really can’t see him being cut out for the Premiership. To play consistently for 3 months straight and then disappear off the radar completely (since December, and say he is suffer from “tiredness”) just shows he lacks both the physical and mental attributes need to succeed in England.


On a final note regarding the strikers, Arsenal might as well Carlos Vela. The young Mexican is synonymous with a lack of goals, and is very poor compared to his fellow countryman Javier Hernandez who has taken to the Premier League like a duck to water.

That’s my take on the Arsenal squad, and the current crop available, who are simple not cutting it.

Now I haven't been sitting here thinking of Fantasy Football or spent the whole afternoon playing Football Manager, I have looked at the most viable options available, and the likelihood of the transfer. I mean Arsenal fans would love to have a Samuel Eto’o or Lionel Messi, but that would be very farfetched and financially unattainable for Arsenal (or so they have you believe). Many Arsenal fans I have spoken to, concur that the likes of Cahill and Given are the players needed in order to strengthen their quest for a trophy. It’s come to the point where Wenger has no more excuses and subsequently no more alternatives.

My final point is an issue I have with Arsene Wenger’s attitude. He is a terribly sore loser and that has rubbed off onto Arsenal fans. Instead of admitting fault and accepting responsibility, he comes out with ridiculous excuses hence making his responses to journalist’s questions more evasive than Floyd Mayweather's defence.



His conduct on the touchline is very disconcerting. He argues with opposition managers, and then refuses to shake their hands when things don't go his way. It is quite poor behaviour, from someone who is so well respected and should be an example to younger managers on how to conduct themselves appropriately. The period of this behaviour (Which can only be described as that of a sore loser) need to be eradicated. Managers such as Sir Alex Ferguson and David Moyes do not conduct themselves in this manner and neither should the Arsenal manager.

This stubbornness, and refusal to admit some sort of fault, is demoralising Arsenal fans and really an insult to everything the club stands for. If Wenger continues in this manner, it’s no myth that all his hard work, achievements and innovations are going to be forgotten which threatens to leave his legacy in tatters.



Arsenal and football fans I would love to hear your views on Wengers decisions, tactics and behaviour. What do you think Arsenal should do? What should Arsene Wenger do?

Leave a comment below, or tweet me @RealTalkFB

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Arsenal – Same Story, Different Season

Yes, Real Talk Football highlights yet another Arsenal related post, but over these past two weeks, the North London side have played in some career defining matches let alone season defining ones! They are the relevant topic at the moment, and unfortunately, it’s not in the manner most Arsenal fans had hoped for.

Arsenal last night tumbled out of the FA Cup, exiting their third cup competition in just 2 weeks, after Arsene Wenger was tactically outclassed by his old foe Sir Alex Ferguson, in a 2-0 defeat to Manchester United.

A goal from Brazilian full back Rafael, who was playing out of position in an unfamiliar right midfield role, as well as striker Wayne Rooney who doubled the lead (who evidently was scoring his 9th career goal against Arsenal) to help Manchester United to a well deserved win.


Some fans will try to claim solace in the fact that Goalkeeper and Dutch veteran Edwin Van Der Sar was voted Man of the man as Arsenal had a spell where they tested the 41 year old on a total of nine occasions. This however, would ultimately be clutching at straws, as the prospect of a domestic double is that which Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger and Arsenal fans would have craved, as just rewards for their stellar attacking performances this season.

Regrettably, the story was an all too familiar one for Arsenal fans. The North London side’s passing was superior to Manchester United’s, with a total of 88.4% passing success rate. They also had more attempts on goal, with 15 in total, and the away side even dominated possession, with 60% in total, yet they ended up on the losing side.

Manchester United on the other hand, played the perfect counter attacking game and are now unbeaten in their last eight meetings against Arsenal. The United formation allowed Wayne Rooney to drop into the midfield, and act as the outlet, as well as the link between the midfield and Javier Hernandez, who was playing as the sole striker.

Countless times Arsenal had the ball in the Manchester United final third, and lacked any sort of determination to get on the score sheet. They lacked the creativity of Cesc Fabregas, the pace of Theo Walcott, and dare I say it; the directness of Nicklas Bendtner.

Every time Samir Nasri, or Andrei Arshavin had the ball in the wide areas, they would ignore the overlapping fullbacks and play a ball square, while Manchester United simply pounced to break up possession and look for the direct ball into the channels, and up the pitch. With Arsenal’s shaky defence, United always looked the more likely to capitalize on their chances.


I understand that Arsene Wenger wants to win trophies the right way, his way, with his philosophy of building up a team from scratch, nurturing young potential into world class players. This is fair enough, but there is no shame in spending a bit of money on that final piece of the puzzle. Fans and pundits will still respect you, as you have established this great squad, but you still made the right strategic move by buying proven quality.

Ultimately, it was clear to see that there is still a distinct lack of leadership amongst the Arsenal team. None of the players play with their heart on their sleeves, take the game by the scruff of the neck when it’s required, nor do the players outside of the first eleven seem to deputise capably when the opportunity arises.


In the goalkeeper position, it is no secret the problems have had since German Jens Lehmann left in 2008. Current occupier of the Number One shirt; Manuel Almunia is a great shot stopper, I believe many football fans will agree on that, as on the rare occasions where Arsenal have been "under the kosh" he has made some fantastic saves. Nevertheless there is always an underlying belief that Almunia, or even Fabianski, is an accident is waiting to happen, and when this mistake occurs, it hardly comes as a bombshell.

Just Imagine if Arsenal had a world class consistent goalkeeper playing throughout the entire season? Where would they be? My guess is higher up the table and further in the cups then they are. Names such as Edwin Van Der Sar, Petr Cech or even a Joe Hart prove this statement.


Experienced individuals such as the Tomas Rosicky are clearly not worthy of their first team chances, with the Czech Republic international evidently a shadow of his former self. Another elder member of the squad; Sebastian Squillaci, has failed to impress during his first season in the Premiership, and already looks expendable.

Midfielder Abou Diaby has been very poor this season, both injury-wise and form-wise, and his performances still struggle to convince fans that he is the right man for the job.

Meanwhile fellow centre midfielder Denilson is a very frustrating player indeed, while he is comfortable on the ball, his passing and defensive responsibilities abandon him at critical occasions.


Finally, and for some the most disappointing performer this season; is Russian Andrei Arshavin. He has managed 11 assists this season, but that is the only thing he has produced. He is nowhere close to the form he first showed during his first year at the Emirates. He himself has admitted his form has been poor, but it seems every time the Russian is on the field, he’s more concerned whether he has left the iron on at home, rather than how to beat his opponent.

The biggest fall from grace this season, has been Moroccan striker Marouane Chamakh. The 26 year old scored 11 goals in his first 21 games for the club, until the beginning of December where he has appeared in 17 matches, and only managed 1 goal.

This is an amazing drop in form, with the striker himself blaming fatigue/tiredness. We are in March, and it begs the question if, and not when, the Moroccan will regain his form, and whether it will be too little too late for Arsenal.


Arsenal have a brilliant starting eleven, with an attacking prowess and technical ability other teams crave for, but the lack of character, and die hard attitude, which some would call “a winning mentality” is a frailty and a burden Arsenal need to eradicate if they are ever to get over this so called “allergy to silverware”.

Let me know what your thoughts on Arsenal are? What is the cure for Arsenal’s "allergies"?

Manchester United fans, how do you feel? Do you guys see Arsenal as serious contenders, or mandatory challenger? Leave a comment below, and let me know.

Real Talk Football