A certain RohanJivan right about now:

Declan Rice’s versatility/OOP expertise has played an enormous part to our success. But really and truly he’s a tailor made 6. The options we currently have has resulted in him playing many games at LCM, but he’s maximised on the ball when he faces play and not back to goal.

Martinelli can do better but is also not being maximised. Post 2024, with Kiwior wider his performances have risen but he’s still not getting enough support. Passmaps show isolation, which could be a good thing, but it’s not since we are third from bottom for switches in the PL.

Mikel needs to start Tomi this weekend. Get him fully ready by giving him minutes at LB and against either Bailey/Diaby, in preparation for Sane/Coman. Was frustrating to see him pick Kiwior on Tuesday. We need our best 1v1 operators spread across the pitch and he’s one of them.

“You’re always drawn to how good Arsenal are on the ball but what sets them apart from the rest is what they do without it.’’ These words from a PL coach encapsulate my thoughts on our best quality, which I’ve always reiterated. Class work Jordan Campbell 👏🏾 theathletic.com/5395284/?utm_m…

It’s interesting because Kiwior didn’t come off at HT for OOP reasons. Kiwior came off because he offered minimal in possession. You don’t bring Zinchenko on for defensive reasons. We struggled to access the LHS upfield.

Great chat with RohanJivan and James B this evening.

Vieira chat here.

I’m just not convinced lads.

youtu.be/zmw5eEhhUcY?si…

Continuing to defy all of his critics. Has performed in every single environment. During our toughest of moments in the early Arteta era, during our best moments, on international duty for England in both the Euros/WC and now in the knockout stages of the CL. World class.

He's baaaaack!

HUGE Rohan Jivan podcast tonight.

We'll be breaking down Bayern, talking new rule changes & discussing the future & performances of Gabriel Martinelli... ALL with the boy James B!

Alexander | RohanJivan

youtube.com/live/znv2OFu2f…

Havertz provided the moments, which is what you need in the CL. The second ball won for Saka’s goal, the second ball won for the White chance and the unselfish run to give Trossard the platform to showcase his finishing. If we won the game, the narrative on his display changes.

2819 minutes since arriving at The Arsenal, 26 G/A (14 G & 12 A) = 108 minutes per G/A. Not a regular starter, used in a variety of different roles, tasked to tackle difficult game states after coming of the bench yet his output remains high. £27 million. This is value for money.

Negative opinions on Havertz’ performance are unfair imo. Secure in tight spaces, aided our RHS dynamics in the first half, crucial for Saka’s goal in winning the second ball + did the same for the Ben White chance. CL is defined by moments and he offered them in a different way.

Passing networks support what I saw.
First half - Ode deeper and outside of the block to receive, with White higher. Tuchel reacted post 20 minutes by asking Laimer to follow Ode.
Second half - Ode staying higher due to Laimer’s role, Zinny on to help LHS.
Credit: Cannon Stats