Reviving Arsenal: Unlocking Triumph through Foundational Tactics ahead of Epic Manchester United Clash
Gary Neville urges Arsenal to abandon experimental tactics and return to the basics ahead of their clash against Manchester United, emphasizing the need for a more traditional approach
Gary Neville believes that Arsenal should abandon their attempts to be innovative with their tactics and instead focus on the fundamentals before their upcoming match against Manchester United. Fulham's Joao Palhinha shocked the Gunners with a late equalizer on Saturday, resulting in a thrilling 2-2 draw at the Emirates and crushing Arsenal's flawless start to the Premier League season.
Mikel Arteta opted to utilize Thomas Partey in a versatile full-back position for the third consecutive game in an attempt to find the ideal equilibrium to incorporate new signings Declan Rice and Kai Havertz.
During the Gary Neville Podcast, Neville expressed his desire for Arteta to revert back to a system that worked exceedingly well for Arsenal last season, particularly when they confront Manchester United on Super Sunday.
He mentioned that when considering Arsenal, there is a component of experimentation involving Thomas Partey assuming the roles of both a full-back and a midfielder. Occasionally, there is a need to revert to fundamental principles.
Arsenal
Manchester United
Sunday 3rd September 4:00pm
Kick off 4:30pm
In my opinion, Mikel Arteta will put an end to that experiment when facing Manchester United, and instead focus on returning to a more conventional team structure. While innovation is admirable, maintaining a balanced team is crucial. I enjoy witnessing fresh ideas, but occasionally, an initial concept can develop into something that proves ineffective.
Arsenal needs to revert back to a 4-3-3 formation, as they have deviated from it. For Manchester United, this presents a significant challenge as all their performances thus far have been subpar. If they continue to underperform at the Emirates, they will undoubtedly face defeat. However, it is crucial for Arsenal to rectify their issues and return to a formation that suits them and is more familiar.Darwin Nunez's late double sealed a remarkable comeback for Liverpool, who managed to secure a 2-1 victory against Newcastle despite Virgil van Dijk's red card in a chaotic and controversial match.
Neville, acting as a co-commentator during the game, expressed, "Darwin Nunez truly deserved that moment. Considering the significant fee he was signed for, it was crucial for him to make an impact."
Jamie Carragher and I had a discussion about him last season, and we both agreed that he would improve. He tends to be a bit clumsy and inconsistent when it comes to taking chances - he lacks composure. Exceptional strikers typically possess a calmness that makes the game appear slower. Unfortunately, he doesn't have that. He appears frenzied. While his thought process is rapid, it is often detrimental for a striker.
However, during the game against Newcastle, he made the most of the two opportunities he had, which is exactly what you need to do to become a top striker. When you are worth £80-90m, scoring crucial goals in important moments for your team is a necessity. It was a pivotal moment for both Liverpool and Nunez.
Nev: I'd rather play against Gakpo or Jota; Nunez frightens me
I would prefer to face off against Cody Gakpo and Diogo Jota rather than Nunez - his incredible speed would terrify me. However, if he struggles to convert chances, he lacks the power to defeat opponents decisively. If he can acquire that finishing touch, he transforms into a truly intriguing player.
Newcastle has been unable to defeat Liverpool in the Premier League for nearly eight years, and they will undoubtedly view this as a missed chance to break that winless streak.
Expressing his thoughts, Neville remarked, "In my opinion, Newcastle is making positive strides under the leadership of Eddie Howe. The new owners have executed their management brilliantly, constructing a solid base. However, at some stage, they will need to enhance the offensive end of the team with top-notch players."
Howe may find it displeasing that this type of player doesn't contribute to the defensive work when not in possession, which he desires. Newcastle excels in defensive play in the Premier League, with their players consistently supporting each other. However, when a talented player is introduced, they often feel less obligated to put in the same effort defensively. Nevertheless, they make up for it by providing exceptional quality and precision in finishing. In the match against Liverpool, Newcastle's forwards lacked the ability to secure victory, and this will be a concern for Howe in the future.
I thoroughly enjoy watching Newcastle play, and I don't believe this signifies the downfall of the team. I anticipate that they will have an excellent season. However, there may come a time when they need to overcome teams that require something extraordinary. They will need the finesse and devastating impact in the attacking third that teams like Liverpool possess.
