POLL For 2024 - 25. AKA UTTER BOLLOCKS

[nut flush gooner]

Sell Eddie, get Gyokores which is close according to reports. Merino for the 6.

[OneBardGooner]

Sell Eddie, get Gyokores which is close according to reports. Merino for the 6.

Boom!

[augie]

Sell Eddie, get Gyokores which is close according to reports. Merino for the 6.

I'm very on the fence re Merino - the defensive midfielder position is crucial in any team nowadays, and I cant shake the feeling that we are "settling" for him (in other words he wouldnt be in our top 6 choices but he will do). By all accounts calafiori is a good player but also by all accounts he was moved from left full to centre back cos of concerns over his pace, so have we bought him as a centre back or left full ? Please dont give me any clap trap about versatility/covering a few different positions ( ) because we have a glaring hole at left back that we need a proper left back to fill, and if he isnt pacy enough to play left full in swiss league, how will he be fast enough for premier league ?? If we bought him as a centre back, then is that to displace gabriel or to be his back up ? Signing back ups is well and good if you have a quality first 11, but we still have needs in starting team

[DB10GOONER]

Sell Eddie, get Gyokores which is close according to reports. Merino for the 6.

I'm very on the fence re Merino - the defensive midfielder position is crucial in any team nowadays, and I cant shake the feeling that we are "settling" for him (in other words he wouldnt be in our top 6 choices but he will do). By all accounts calafiori is a good player but also by all accounts he was moved from left full to centre back cos of concerns over his pace, so have we bought him as a centre back or left full ? Please dont give me any clap trap about versatility/covering a few different positions ( ) because we have a glaring hole at left back that we need a proper left back to fill, and if he isnt pacy enough to play left full in swiss league, how will he be fast enough for premier league ?? If we bought him as a centre back, then is that to displace gabriel or to be his back up ? Signing back ups is well and good if you have a quality first 11, but we still have needs in starting team

I'm hoping he was bought to, and is good enough to, replace Gabriel.

Gabriel is an OK to goodish CH, but he is prone to panic and self inflicted mistakes. And without Saliba beside him his game drops by several levels. As does our entire back four.

But if Calafiori was struggling with the pace of the Swiss or Italian leagues then I'd be genuinely worried about his adapting to the PL.

Let's see how he goes and hope he's a huge success.

[OneBardGooner]

Must admit didn't watch much of the Euro's and know little if anything about him, only took notice when I heard we might sign him.


If he does lack pace that could be a problem in The Prem, however as Augie rightly said Italian defenders are cut from the same cloth and will do whatever is necessary to stop and opponent, which I'm all for. But also the Italian defenders read the game very well and so can make up for any shortfalls in their overall game. Hope he is what we need. A Damn Good Defender.

[arrgee]

arrgee, you do know that douglas luiz and the tart he is banging have both left villa and signed for juventus dont you ?

No, i didn’t….

[DB10GOONER]

arrgee, you do know that douglas luiz and the tart he is banging have both left villa and signed for juventus dont you ?

No, i didn’t….

Neither did I.

Was kinda hoping we'd trolley dash home in on the last day of the window.

[Retro Gunner]

Sell Eddie, get Gyokores which is close according to reports. Merino for the 6.

What do you know about Merino that we ought to get excited about Nutty?

I saw a couple of late substitute appearances for Spain, so have nothing to judge him on. A 28 year old that most of us have never heard of worries me a bit, as does his obvious failure to make a mark at Dortmund and Newcastle .

Any reasons for optimism, other than blind faith?

[OneBardGooner]

I wasn't quite sure what thread to put this on, but seeing as it speaks about the current state/mood of the club/ squad/ team / manager etc... And what they hope to achieve this coming season I thought this might be the best place:

Source BBC Football:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/ar ... gr5y3dezyo

Spending time around the Arsenal camp in the United States, it was impossible to escape the feeling this is a club united.

Intense on the training pitch and in games, away from it manager Mikel Arteta was relaxed - far removed from the tetchy figure we sometimes see on the touchline - and technical director Edu appears a man in control of his remit.

Edu's job these days is to sift through the numerous agents offering Arsenal their players. He comes across as a clear minded individual, not one to fall for the promise of a shiny new toy with no substance to it.

Results can mask many issues at football clubs but there is a sense of purpose around Arsenal - and even goodwill towards the ownership, which is remarkable considering the fury launched upon them at the height of the Super League debacle.

Their aim is to improve - and to win. That is not easy given they have amassed 84 and 89 points respectively to finish second in the Premier League for the past two seasons. The only club to finish above them is Manchester City.

When asked before the Bournemouth game in Los Angeles if it was possible to improve after two almost perfect seasons, Arteta's answer was clear: "We have to."

The process for achieving it has been compared internally to a software update. Arsenal are trying to address the weaknesses and bugs that have been identified. This is not about subtle tweaks. This is a system upgrade.

"We want to improve in everything," said Arteta. "Attacking metrics, defensive metrics, restarts, set-piece."
The challenge to overtake his former club City is one Arsenal will not shy away from.

Timber to make up for false start?

There was a great deal of excitement around Jurrien Timber 12 months ago.

The Gunners paid Ajax £38m for the Netherlands defender and his arrival had been a little under the radar compared to that of Declan Rice.

He had impressed though in pre season, playing the inverted right-back role, before a knee injury in the season opener that kept him out until the final game of the campaign.

Now, he is back in an Arsenal shirt and, while he was left out of the final tour match with Liverpool in order to protect him, he did impress against Bournemouth and Man Utd.

Asked about him as a potential rival for his shirt, team-mate Oleksandr Zinchenko described Timber’s on-pitch ability as 'unbelievable'.
As someone who can play across the backline, Timber’s versatility could be invaluable. But I suspect Arteta has a specific role earmarked for him. He could be a key man for Arsenal this term.

Unfair criticism? What role for Havertz?

Arteta felt the negativity around Kai Havertz's arrival at Arsenal last summer from Chelsea was unfair. The reaction only was heightened by some below-par performances early in the season.

Yet, in the absence of a centre-forward many Arsenal fans believe should be an essential aspect of the club's summer recruitment, the Germany forward could turn out to be a key part of the Gunners' drive for honours.

He cannot be a number nine in the conventional sense like Erling Haaland, who pins defenders back with his strength. But his intelligence can create pockets of space in dangerous areas that can be exploited, by him or team-mates. His goal against Liverpool in Philadelphia was an example of that.

The intriguing bit will be whether he is used as a false nine or in a deeper role, which allows Gabriel Jesus to play more centrally.

As ever with Havertz, opinions are polarised. But to those who have reacted negatively to his performances in the United States, Arteta offered a reminder that the former Chelsea man had only had four training sessions and still made an impact.

Battle for places - Arteta's biggest challenge

Signing Italy defender Riccardo Calafiori during the three-match tour of the United States and flying him to Philadelphia to train with his new team-mates - and the subsequent move for Real Sociedad defender Mikel Merino - is proof Arsenal are not prepared to accept finishing second as the limit of their achievements.

For that to happen, Arsenal need better players, but increasing competition for places brings with its own problems.

Managing a group of players is as much about how you deal with the ones who don't get picked as much as the ones that do. And that is Arteta's challenge.

Where will Calafiori play is a key question on the lips of Arsenal fans. The same is also true of Timber.

But in a sense, that is not the crucial point. It should be 'who gets left out?'.

It is easy to see Zinchenko for instance not getting a spot in Arteta's new-look side. But his ability and versatility means the Ukraine international could be useful off the bench or to step in should injuries occur - and the chances are they will.

Arteta needs his back-up players to be on board with the messaging and willing to help the team.

For all the plaudits he receives for tactical innovation, that is probably the biggest challenge for Arteta this season. How well he meets it could determine whether Arsenal end their 20-year wait for a title.


Video Interview from same article:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/ar ... gr5y3dezyo

[Retro Gunner]

I wasn't quite sure what thread to put this on, but seeing as it speaks about the current state/mood of the club/ squad/ team / manager etc... And what they hope to achieve this coming season I thought this might be the best place:

Source BBC Football:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/ar ... gr5y3dezyo

Spending time around the Arsenal camp in the United States, it was impossible to escape the feeling this is a club united.

Intense on the training pitch and in games, away from it manager Mikel Arteta was relaxed - far removed from the tetchy figure we sometimes see on the touchline - and technical director Edu appears a man in control of his remit.

Edu's job these days is to sift through the numerous agents offering Arsenal their players. He comes across as a clear minded individual, not one to fall for the promise of a shiny new toy with no substance to it.

Results can mask many issues at football clubs but there is a sense of purpose around Arsenal - and even goodwill towards the ownership, which is remarkable considering the fury launched upon them at the height of the Super League debacle.

Their aim is to improve - and to win. That is not easy given they have amassed 84 and 89 points respectively to finish second in the Premier League for the past two seasons. The only club to finish above them is Manchester City.

When asked before the Bournemouth game in Los Angeles if it was possible to improve after two almost perfect seasons, Arteta's answer was clear: "We have to."

The process for achieving it has been compared internally to a software update. Arsenal are trying to address the weaknesses and bugs that have been identified. This is not about subtle tweaks. This is a system upgrade.

"We want to improve in everything," said Arteta. "Attacking metrics, defensive metrics, restarts, set-piece."
The challenge to overtake his former club City is one Arsenal will not shy away from.

Timber to make up for false start?

There was a great deal of excitement around Jurrien Timber 12 months ago.

The Gunners paid Ajax £38m for the Netherlands defender and his arrival had been a little under the radar compared to that of Declan Rice.

He had impressed though in pre season, playing the inverted right-back role, before a knee injury in the season opener that kept him out until the final game of the campaign.

Now, he is back in an Arsenal shirt and, while he was left out of the final tour match with Liverpool in order to protect him, he did impress against Bournemouth and Man Utd.

Asked about him as a potential rival for his shirt, team-mate Oleksandr Zinchenko described Timber’s on-pitch ability as 'unbelievable'.
As someone who can play across the backline, Timber’s versatility could be invaluable. But I suspect Arteta has a specific role earmarked for him. He could be a key man for Arsenal this term.

Unfair criticism? What role for Havertz?

Arteta felt the negativity around Kai Havertz's arrival at Arsenal last summer from Chelsea was unfair. The reaction only was heightened by some below-par performances early in the season.

Yet, in the absence of a centre-forward many Arsenal fans believe should be an essential aspect of the club's summer recruitment, the Germany forward could turn out to be a key part of the Gunners' drive for honours.

He cannot be a number nine in the conventional sense like Erling Haaland, who pins defenders back with his strength. But his intelligence can create pockets of space in dangerous areas that can be exploited, by him or team-mates. His goal against Liverpool in Philadelphia was an example of that.

The intriguing bit will be whether he is used as a false nine or in a deeper role, which allows Gabriel Jesus to play more centrally.

As ever with Havertz, opinions are polarised. But to those who have reacted negatively to his performances in the United States, Arteta offered a reminder that the former Chelsea man had only had four training sessions and still made an impact.

Battle for places - Arteta's biggest challenge

Signing Italy defender Riccardo Calafiori during the three-match tour of the United States and flying him to Philadelphia to train with his new team-mates - and the subsequent move for Real Sociedad defender Mikel Merino - is proof Arsenal are not prepared to accept finishing second as the limit of their achievements.

For that to happen, Arsenal need better players, but increasing competition for places brings with its own problems.

Managing a group of players is as much about how you deal with the ones who don't get picked as much as the ones that do. And that is Arteta's challenge.

Where will Calafiori play is a key question on the lips of Arsenal fans. The same is also true of Timber.

But in a sense, that is not the crucial point. It should be 'who gets left out?'.

It is easy to see Zinchenko for instance not getting a spot in Arteta's new-look side. But his ability and versatility means the Ukraine international could be useful off the bench or to step in should injuries occur - and the chances are they will.

Arteta needs his back-up players to be on board with the messaging and willing to help the team.

For all the plaudits he receives for tactical innovation, that is probably the biggest challenge for Arteta this season. How well he meets it could determine whether Arsenal end their 20-year wait for a title.


Video Interview from same article:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/ar ... gr5y3dezyo

I don't think I'm alone in questioning many journalists' knowledge of the game, or consideration around the things they write. Rgrading his paragraph about Havertz....he suggests that he can be played as a false 9 (I fucking hate that daft notion) with Jesus ahead of him. So we'd drop Odegaard to facilitate that would we? Or perhaps tell Rice that he's playing alone in centre mid?!

Other than shoving Jesus out wide to replace either Saka or Martinelli, which would be retrograde, then only one of Havertz or Jesus can play. Neither will score anywhere near enough goals. Says it all earlier in this thread where people are predicting Saka as top scorer for the season.

BUY A FUCKING STRIKER!!

And I mean a quality striker, not a second rater.

He won't.

[Nick Nack]

I wasn't quite sure what thread to put this on, but seeing as it speaks about the current state/mood of the club/ squad/ team / manager etc... And what they hope to achieve this coming season I thought this might be the best place:

Source BBC Football:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/ar ... gr5y3dezyo

Spending time around the Arsenal camp in the United States, it was impossible to escape the feeling this is a club united.

Intense on the training pitch and in games, away from it manager Mikel Arteta was relaxed - far removed from the tetchy figure we sometimes see on the touchline - and technical director Edu appears a man in control of his remit.

Edu's job these days is to sift through the numerous agents offering Arsenal their players. He comes across as a clear minded individual, not one to fall for the promise of a shiny new toy with no substance to it.

Results can mask many issues at football clubs but there is a sense of purpose around Arsenal - and even goodwill towards the ownership, which is remarkable considering the fury launched upon them at the height of the Super League debacle.

Their aim is to improve - and to win. That is not easy given they have amassed 84 and 89 points respectively to finish second in the Premier League for the past two seasons. The only club to finish above them is Manchester City.

When asked before the Bournemouth game in Los Angeles if it was possible to improve after two almost perfect seasons, Arteta's answer was clear: "We have to."

The process for achieving it has been compared internally to a software update. Arsenal are trying to address the weaknesses and bugs that have been identified. This is not about subtle tweaks. This is a system upgrade.

"We want to improve in everything," said Arteta. "Attacking metrics, defensive metrics, restarts, set-piece."
The challenge to overtake his former club City is one Arsenal will not shy away from.

Timber to make up for false start?

There was a great deal of excitement around Jurrien Timber 12 months ago.

The Gunners paid Ajax £38m for the Netherlands defender and his arrival had been a little under the radar compared to that of Declan Rice.

He had impressed though in pre season, playing the inverted right-back role, before a knee injury in the season opener that kept him out until the final game of the campaign.

Now, he is back in an Arsenal shirt and, while he was left out of the final tour match with Liverpool in order to protect him, he did impress against Bournemouth and Man Utd.

Asked about him as a potential rival for his shirt, team-mate Oleksandr Zinchenko described Timber’s on-pitch ability as 'unbelievable'.
As someone who can play across the backline, Timber’s versatility could be invaluable. But I suspect Arteta has a specific role earmarked for him. He could be a key man for Arsenal this term.

Unfair criticism? What role for Havertz?

Arteta felt the negativity around Kai Havertz's arrival at Arsenal last summer from Chelsea was unfair. The reaction only was heightened by some below-par performances early in the season.

Yet, in the absence of a centre-forward many Arsenal fans believe should be an essential aspect of the club's summer recruitment, the Germany forward could turn out to be a key part of the Gunners' drive for honours.

He cannot be a number nine in the conventional sense like Erling Haaland, who pins defenders back with his strength. But his intelligence can create pockets of space in dangerous areas that can be exploited, by him or team-mates. His goal against Liverpool in Philadelphia was an example of that.

The intriguing bit will be whether he is used as a false nine or in a deeper role, which allows Gabriel Jesus to play more centrally.

As ever with Havertz, opinions are polarised. But to those who have reacted negatively to his performances in the United States, Arteta offered a reminder that the former Chelsea man had only had four training sessions and still made an impact.

Battle for places - Arteta's biggest challenge

Signing Italy defender Riccardo Calafiori during the three-match tour of the United States and flying him to Philadelphia to train with his new team-mates - and the subsequent move for Real Sociedad defender Mikel Merino - is proof Arsenal are not prepared to accept finishing second as the limit of their achievements.

For that to happen, Arsenal need better players, but increasing competition for places brings with its own problems.

Managing a group of players is as much about how you deal with the ones who don't get picked as much as the ones that do. And that is Arteta's challenge.

Where will Calafiori play is a key question on the lips of Arsenal fans. The same is also true of Timber.

But in a sense, that is not the crucial point. It should be 'who gets left out?'.

It is easy to see Zinchenko for instance not getting a spot in Arteta's new-look side. But his ability and versatility means the Ukraine international could be useful off the bench or to step in should injuries occur - and the chances are they will.

Arteta needs his back-up players to be on board with the messaging and willing to help the team.

For all the plaudits he receives for tactical innovation, that is probably the biggest challenge for Arteta this season. How well he meets it could determine whether Arsenal end their 20-year wait for a title.


Video Interview from same article:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/ar ... gr5y3dezyo

I don't think I'm alone in questioning many journalists' knowledge of the game, or consideration around the things they write. Rgrading his paragraph about Havertz....he suggests that he can be played as a false 9 (I fucking hate that daft notion) with Jesus ahead of him. So we'd drop Odegaard to facilitate that would we? Or perhaps tell Rice that he's playing alone in centre mid?!

Other than shoving Jesus out wide to replace either Saka or Martinelli, which would be retrograde, then only one of Havertz or Jesus can play. Neither will score anywhere near enough goals. Says it all earlier in this thread where people are predicting Saka as top scorer for the season.

BUY A FUCKING STRIKER!!

And I mean a quality striker, not a second rater.

He won't.

Don't want to upset the harmony in the squad

Sounds like the last and worst of TOF's final years

We'll start the season with fucking Zinchenko, and then I'll have to go back on the meds

[OneBardGooner]

I wasn't quite sure what thread to put this on, but seeing as it speaks about the current state/mood of the club/ squad/ team / manager etc... And what they hope to achieve this coming season I thought this might be the best place:

Source BBC Football:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/ar ... gr5y3dezyo

Spending time around the Arsenal camp in the United States, it was impossible to escape the feeling this is a club united.

Intense on the training pitch and in games, away from it manager Mikel Arteta was relaxed - far removed from the tetchy figure we sometimes see on the touchline - and technical director Edu appears a man in control of his remit.

Edu's job these days is to sift through the numerous agents offering Arsenal their players. He comes across as a clear minded individual, not one to fall for the promise of a shiny new toy with no substance to it.

Results can mask many issues at football clubs but there is a sense of purpose around Arsenal - and even goodwill towards the ownership, which is remarkable considering the fury launched upon them at the height of the Super League debacle.

Their aim is to improve - and to win. That is not easy given they have amassed 84 and 89 points respectively to finish second in the Premier League for the past two seasons. The only club to finish above them is Manchester City.

When asked before the Bournemouth game in Los Angeles if it was possible to improve after two almost perfect seasons, Arteta's answer was clear: "We have to."

The process for achieving it has been compared internally to a software update. Arsenal are trying to address the weaknesses and bugs that have been identified. This is not about subtle tweaks. This is a system upgrade.

"We want to improve in everything," said Arteta. "Attacking metrics, defensive metrics, restarts, set-piece."
The challenge to overtake his former club City is one Arsenal will not shy away from.

Timber to make up for false start?

There was a great deal of excitement around Jurrien Timber 12 months ago.

The Gunners paid Ajax £38m for the Netherlands defender and his arrival had been a little under the radar compared to that of Declan Rice.

He had impressed though in pre season, playing the inverted right-back role, before a knee injury in the season opener that kept him out until the final game of the campaign.

Now, he is back in an Arsenal shirt and, while he was left out of the final tour match with Liverpool in order to protect him, he did impress against Bournemouth and Man Utd.

Asked about him as a potential rival for his shirt, team-mate Oleksandr Zinchenko described Timber’s on-pitch ability as 'unbelievable'.
As someone who can play across the backline, Timber’s versatility could be invaluable. But I suspect Arteta has a specific role earmarked for him. He could be a key man for Arsenal this term.

Unfair criticism? What role for Havertz?

Arteta felt the negativity around Kai Havertz's arrival at Arsenal last summer from Chelsea was unfair. The reaction only was heightened by some below-par performances early in the season.

Yet, in the absence of a centre-forward many Arsenal fans believe should be an essential aspect of the club's summer recruitment, the Germany forward could turn out to be a key part of the Gunners' drive for honours.

He cannot be a number nine in the conventional sense like Erling Haaland, who pins defenders back with his strength. But his intelligence can create pockets of space in dangerous areas that can be exploited, by him or team-mates. His goal against Liverpool in Philadelphia was an example of that.

The intriguing bit will be whether he is used as a false nine or in a deeper role, which allows Gabriel Jesus to play more centrally.

As ever with Havertz, opinions are polarised. But to those who have reacted negatively to his performances in the United States, Arteta offered a reminder that the former Chelsea man had only had four training sessions and still made an impact.

Battle for places - Arteta's biggest challenge

Signing Italy defender Riccardo Calafiori during the three-match tour of the United States and flying him to Philadelphia to train with his new team-mates - and the subsequent move for Real Sociedad defender Mikel Merino - is proof Arsenal are not prepared to accept finishing second as the limit of their achievements.

For that to happen, Arsenal need better players, but increasing competition for places brings with its own problems.

Managing a group of players is as much about how you deal with the ones who don't get picked as much as the ones that do. And that is Arteta's challenge.

Where will Calafiori play is a key question on the lips of Arsenal fans. The same is also true of Timber.

But in a sense, that is not the crucial point. It should be 'who gets left out?'.

It is easy to see Zinchenko for instance not getting a spot in Arteta's new-look side. But his ability and versatility means the Ukraine international could be useful off the bench or to step in should injuries occur - and the chances are they will.

Arteta needs his back-up players to be on board with the messaging and willing to help the team.

For all the plaudits he receives for tactical innovation, that is probably the biggest challenge for Arteta this season. How well he meets it could determine whether Arsenal end their 20-year wait for a title.


Video Interview from same article:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/ar ... gr5y3dezyo

I don't think I'm alone in questioning many journalists' knowledge of the game, or consideration around the things they write. Rgrading his paragraph about Havertz....he suggests that he can be played as a false 9 (I fucking hate that daft notion) with Jesus ahead of him. So we'd drop Odegaard to facilitate that would we? Or perhaps tell Rice that he's playing alone in centre mid?!

Other than shoving Jesus out wide to replace either Saka or Martinelli, which would be retrograde, then only one of Havertz or Jesus can play. Neither will score anywhere near enough goals. Says it all earlier in this thread where people are predicting Saka as top scorer for the season.

BUY A FUCKING STRIKER!!

And I mean a quality striker, not a second rater.

He won't.

Don't want to upset the harmony in the squad

Sounds like the last and worst of TOF's final years

We'll start the season with fucking Zinchenko, and then I'll have to go back on the meds

I'm still on them mate, but when slugchenko plays I double the dose and swallow them down with a triple Tequila.

[Retro Gunner]

I wasn't quite sure what thread to put this on, but seeing as it speaks about the current state/mood of the club/ squad/ team / manager etc... And what they hope to achieve this coming season I thought this might be the best place:

Source BBC Football:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/ar ... gr5y3dezyo

Spending time around the Arsenal camp in the United States, it was impossible to escape the feeling this is a club united.

Intense on the training pitch and in games, away from it manager Mikel Arteta was relaxed - far removed from the tetchy figure we sometimes see on the touchline - and technical director Edu appears a man in control of his remit.

Edu's job these days is to sift through the numerous agents offering Arsenal their players. He comes across as a clear minded individual, not one to fall for the promise of a shiny new toy with no substance to it.

Results can mask many issues at football clubs but there is a sense of purpose around Arsenal - and even goodwill towards the ownership, which is remarkable considering the fury launched upon them at the height of the Super League debacle.

Their aim is to improve - and to win. That is not easy given they have amassed 84 and 89 points respectively to finish second in the Premier League for the past two seasons. The only club to finish above them is Manchester City.

When asked before the Bournemouth game in Los Angeles if it was possible to improve after two almost perfect seasons, Arteta's answer was clear: "We have to."

The process for achieving it has been compared internally to a software update. Arsenal are trying to address the weaknesses and bugs that have been identified. This is not about subtle tweaks. This is a system upgrade.

"We want to improve in everything," said Arteta. "Attacking metrics, defensive metrics, restarts, set-piece."
The challenge to overtake his former club City is one Arsenal will not shy away from.

Timber to make up for false start?

There was a great deal of excitement around Jurrien Timber 12 months ago.

The Gunners paid Ajax £38m for the Netherlands defender and his arrival had been a little under the radar compared to that of Declan Rice.

He had impressed though in pre season, playing the inverted right-back role, before a knee injury in the season opener that kept him out until the final game of the campaign.

Now, he is back in an Arsenal shirt and, while he was left out of the final tour match with Liverpool in order to protect him, he did impress against Bournemouth and Man Utd.

Asked about him as a potential rival for his shirt, team-mate Oleksandr Zinchenko described Timber’s on-pitch ability as 'unbelievable'.
As someone who can play across the backline, Timber’s versatility could be invaluable. But I suspect Arteta has a specific role earmarked for him. He could be a key man for Arsenal this term.

Unfair criticism? What role for Havertz?

Arteta felt the negativity around Kai Havertz's arrival at Arsenal last summer from Chelsea was unfair. The reaction only was heightened by some below-par performances early in the season.

Yet, in the absence of a centre-forward many Arsenal fans believe should be an essential aspect of the club's summer recruitment, the Germany forward could turn out to be a key part of the Gunners' drive for honours.

He cannot be a number nine in the conventional sense like Erling Haaland, who pins defenders back with his strength. But his intelligence can create pockets of space in dangerous areas that can be exploited, by him or team-mates. His goal against Liverpool in Philadelphia was an example of that.

The intriguing bit will be whether he is used as a false nine or in a deeper role, which allows Gabriel Jesus to play more centrally.

As ever with Havertz, opinions are polarised. But to those who have reacted negatively to his performances in the United States, Arteta offered a reminder that the former Chelsea man had only had four training sessions and still made an impact.

Battle for places - Arteta's biggest challenge

Signing Italy defender Riccardo Calafiori during the three-match tour of the United States and flying him to Philadelphia to train with his new team-mates - and the subsequent move for Real Sociedad defender Mikel Merino - is proof Arsenal are not prepared to accept finishing second as the limit of their achievements.

For that to happen, Arsenal need better players, but increasing competition for places brings with its own problems.

Managing a group of players is as much about how you deal with the ones who don't get picked as much as the ones that do. And that is Arteta's challenge.

Where will Calafiori play is a key question on the lips of Arsenal fans. The same is also true of Timber.

But in a sense, that is not the crucial point. It should be 'who gets left out?'.

It is easy to see Zinchenko for instance not getting a spot in Arteta's new-look side. But his ability and versatility means the Ukraine international could be useful off the bench or to step in should injuries occur - and the chances are they will.

Arteta needs his back-up players to be on board with the messaging and willing to help the team.

For all the plaudits he receives for tactical innovation, that is probably the biggest challenge for Arteta this season. How well he meets it could determine whether Arsenal end their 20-year wait for a title.


Video Interview from same article:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/ar ... gr5y3dezyo

I don't think I'm alone in questioning many journalists' knowledge of the game, or consideration around the things they write. Rgrading his paragraph about Havertz....he suggests that he can be played as a false 9 (I fucking hate that daft notion) with Jesus ahead of him. So we'd drop Odegaard to facilitate that would we? Or perhaps tell Rice that he's playing alone in centre mid?!

Other than shoving Jesus out wide to replace either Saka or Martinelli, which would be retrograde, then only one of Havertz or Jesus can play. Neither will score anywhere near enough goals. Says it all earlier in this thread where people are predicting Saka as top scorer for the season.

BUY A FUCKING STRIKER!!

And I mean a quality striker, not a second rater.

He won't.

Don't want to upset the harmony in the squad

Sounds like the last and worst of TOF's final years

We'll start the season with fucking Zinchenko, and then I'll have to go back on the meds

Fuck me, please don't tell me that he actually said that?!! Did he???

"Overall, I doesn't want to kill Jesus or Havertz."

[Retro Gunner]

I wasn't quite sure what thread to put this on, but seeing as it speaks about the current state/mood of the club/ squad/ team / manager etc... And what they hope to achieve this coming season I thought this might be the best place:

Source BBC Football:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/ar ... gr5y3dezyo

Spending time around the Arsenal camp in the United States, it was impossible to escape the feeling this is a club united.

Intense on the training pitch and in games, away from it manager Mikel Arteta was relaxed - far removed from the tetchy figure we sometimes see on the touchline - and technical director Edu appears a man in control of his remit.

Edu's job these days is to sift through the numerous agents offering Arsenal their players. He comes across as a clear minded individual, not one to fall for the promise of a shiny new toy with no substance to it.

Results can mask many issues at football clubs but there is a sense of purpose around Arsenal - and even goodwill towards the ownership, which is remarkable considering the fury launched upon them at the height of the Super League debacle.

Their aim is to improve - and to win. That is not easy given they have amassed 84 and 89 points respectively to finish second in the Premier League for the past two seasons. The only club to finish above them is Manchester City.

When asked before the Bournemouth game in Los Angeles if it was possible to improve after two almost perfect seasons, Arteta's answer was clear: "We have to."

The process for achieving it has been compared internally to a software update. Arsenal are trying to address the weaknesses and bugs that have been identified. This is not about subtle tweaks. This is a system upgrade.

"We want to improve in everything," said Arteta. "Attacking metrics, defensive metrics, restarts, set-piece."
The challenge to overtake his former club City is one Arsenal will not shy away from.

Timber to make up for false start?

There was a great deal of excitement around Jurrien Timber 12 months ago.

The Gunners paid Ajax £38m for the Netherlands defender and his arrival had been a little under the radar compared to that of Declan Rice.

He had impressed though in pre season, playing the inverted right-back role, before a knee injury in the season opener that kept him out until the final game of the campaign.

Now, he is back in an Arsenal shirt and, while he was left out of the final tour match with Liverpool in order to protect him, he did impress against Bournemouth and Man Utd.

Asked about him as a potential rival for his shirt, team-mate Oleksandr Zinchenko described Timber’s on-pitch ability as 'unbelievable'.
As someone who can play across the backline, Timber’s versatility could be invaluable. But I suspect Arteta has a specific role earmarked for him. He could be a key man for Arsenal this term.

Unfair criticism? What role for Havertz?

Arteta felt the negativity around Kai Havertz's arrival at Arsenal last summer from Chelsea was unfair. The reaction only was heightened by some below-par performances early in the season.

Yet, in the absence of a centre-forward many Arsenal fans believe should be an essential aspect of the club's summer recruitment, the Germany forward could turn out to be a key part of the Gunners' drive for honours.

He cannot be a number nine in the conventional sense like Erling Haaland, who pins defenders back with his strength. But his intelligence can create pockets of space in dangerous areas that can be exploited, by him or team-mates. His goal against Liverpool in Philadelphia was an example of that.

The intriguing bit will be whether he is used as a false nine or in a deeper role, which allows Gabriel Jesus to play more centrally.

As ever with Havertz, opinions are polarised. But to those who have reacted negatively to his performances in the United States, Arteta offered a reminder that the former Chelsea man had only had four training sessions and still made an impact.

Battle for places - Arteta's biggest challenge

Signing Italy defender Riccardo Calafiori during the three-match tour of the United States and flying him to Philadelphia to train with his new team-mates - and the subsequent move for Real Sociedad defender Mikel Merino - is proof Arsenal are not prepared to accept finishing second as the limit of their achievements.

For that to happen, Arsenal need better players, but increasing competition for places brings with its own problems.

Managing a group of players is as much about how you deal with the ones who don't get picked as much as the ones that do. And that is Arteta's challenge.

Where will Calafiori play is a key question on the lips of Arsenal fans. The same is also true of Timber.

But in a sense, that is not the crucial point. It should be 'who gets left out?'.

It is easy to see Zinchenko for instance not getting a spot in Arteta's new-look side. But his ability and versatility means the Ukraine international could be useful off the bench or to step in should injuries occur - and the chances are they will.

Arteta needs his back-up players to be on board with the messaging and willing to help the team.

For all the plaudits he receives for tactical innovation, that is probably the biggest challenge for Arteta this season. How well he meets it could determine whether Arsenal end their 20-year wait for a title.


Video Interview from same article:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/ar ... gr5y3dezyo

I don't think I'm alone in questioning many journalists' knowledge of the game, or consideration around the things they write. Rgrading his paragraph about Havertz....he suggests that he can be played as a false 9 (I fucking hate that daft notion) with Jesus ahead of him. So we'd drop Odegaard to facilitate that would we? Or perhaps tell Rice that he's playing alone in centre mid?!

Other than shoving Jesus out wide to replace either Saka or Martinelli, which would be retrograde, then only one of Havertz or Jesus can play. Neither will score anywhere near enough goals. Says it all earlier in this thread where people are predicting Saka as top scorer for the season.

BUY A FUCKING STRIKER!!

And I mean a quality striker, not a second rater.

He won't.

Don't want to upset the harmony in the squad

Sounds like the last and worst of TOF's final years

We'll start the season with fucking Zinchenko, and then I'll have to go back on the meds

I'm still on them mate, but when slugchenko plays I double the dose and swallow them down with a triple Tequila.

'Ere, OB, send me your address and if we're ever about to start a game with Ramsdale, Zinchenko, Vieira, Havertz and Eddie in the line up, I'll phone an ambulance for you.

Just as well Xhaka has gone, or I'd be phoning the undertaker!!

[OneBardGooner]

I wasn't quite sure what thread to put this on, but seeing as it speaks about the current state/mood of the club/ squad/ team / manager etc... And what they hope to achieve this coming season I thought this might be the best place:

Source BBC Football:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/ar ... gr5y3dezyo

Spending time around the Arsenal camp in the United States, it was impossible to escape the feeling this is a club united.

Intense on the training pitch and in games, away from it manager Mikel Arteta was relaxed - far removed from the tetchy figure we sometimes see on the touchline - and technical director Edu appears a man in control of his remit.

Edu's job these days is to sift through the numerous agents offering Arsenal their players. He comes across as a clear minded individual, not one to fall for the promise of a shiny new toy with no substance to it.

Results can mask many issues at football clubs but there is a sense of purpose around Arsenal - and even goodwill towards the ownership, which is remarkable considering the fury launched upon them at the height of the Super League debacle.

Their aim is to improve - and to win. That is not easy given they have amassed 84 and 89 points respectively to finish second in the Premier League for the past two seasons. The only club to finish above them is Manchester City.

When asked before the Bournemouth game in Los Angeles if it was possible to improve after two almost perfect seasons, Arteta's answer was clear: "We have to."

The process for achieving it has been compared internally to a software update. Arsenal are trying to address the weaknesses and bugs that have been identified. This is not about subtle tweaks. This is a system upgrade.

"We want to improve in everything," said Arteta. "Attacking metrics, defensive metrics, restarts, set-piece."
The challenge to overtake his former club City is one Arsenal will not shy away from.

Timber to make up for false start?

There was a great deal of excitement around Jurrien Timber 12 months ago.

The Gunners paid Ajax £38m for the Netherlands defender and his arrival had been a little under the radar compared to that of Declan Rice.

He had impressed though in pre season, playing the inverted right-back role, before a knee injury in the season opener that kept him out until the final game of the campaign.

Now, he is back in an Arsenal shirt and, while he was left out of the final tour match with Liverpool in order to protect him, he did impress against Bournemouth and Man Utd.

Asked about him as a potential rival for his shirt, team-mate Oleksandr Zinchenko described Timber’s on-pitch ability as 'unbelievable'.
As someone who can play across the backline, Timber’s versatility could be invaluable. But I suspect Arteta has a specific role earmarked for him. He could be a key man for Arsenal this term.

Unfair criticism? What role for Havertz?

Arteta felt the negativity around Kai Havertz's arrival at Arsenal last summer from Chelsea was unfair. The reaction only was heightened by some below-par performances early in the season.

Yet, in the absence of a centre-forward many Arsenal fans believe should be an essential aspect of the club's summer recruitment, the Germany forward could turn out to be a key part of the Gunners' drive for honours.

He cannot be a number nine in the conventional sense like Erling Haaland, who pins defenders back with his strength. But his intelligence can create pockets of space in dangerous areas that can be exploited, by him or team-mates. His goal against Liverpool in Philadelphia was an example of that.

The intriguing bit will be whether he is used as a false nine or in a deeper role, which allows Gabriel Jesus to play more centrally.

As ever with Havertz, opinions are polarised. But to those who have reacted negatively to his performances in the United States, Arteta offered a reminder that the former Chelsea man had only had four training sessions and still made an impact.

Battle for places - Arteta's biggest challenge

Signing Italy defender Riccardo Calafiori during the three-match tour of the United States and flying him to Philadelphia to train with his new team-mates - and the subsequent move for Real Sociedad defender Mikel Merino - is proof Arsenal are not prepared to accept finishing second as the limit of their achievements.

For that to happen, Arsenal need better players, but increasing competition for places brings with its own problems.

Managing a group of players is as much about how you deal with the ones who don't get picked as much as the ones that do. And that is Arteta's challenge.

Where will Calafiori play is a key question on the lips of Arsenal fans. The same is also true of Timber.

But in a sense, that is not the crucial point. It should be 'who gets left out?'.

It is easy to see Zinchenko for instance not getting a spot in Arteta's new-look side. But his ability and versatility means the Ukraine international could be useful off the bench or to step in should injuries occur - and the chances are they will.

Arteta needs his back-up players to be on board with the messaging and willing to help the team.

For all the plaudits he receives for tactical innovation, that is probably the biggest challenge for Arteta this season. How well he meets it could determine whether Arsenal end their 20-year wait for a title.


Video Interview from same article:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/ar ... gr5y3dezyo

I don't think I'm alone in questioning many journalists' knowledge of the game, or consideration around the things they write. Rgrading his paragraph about Havertz....he suggests that he can be played as a false 9 (I fucking hate that daft notion) with Jesus ahead of him. So we'd drop Odegaard to facilitate that would we? Or perhaps tell Rice that he's playing alone in centre mid?!

Other than shoving Jesus out wide to replace either Saka or Martinelli, which would be retrograde, then only one of Havertz or Jesus can play. Neither will score anywhere near enough goals. Says it all earlier in this thread where people are predicting Saka as top scorer for the season.

BUY A FUCKING STRIKER!!

And I mean a quality striker, not a second rater.

He won't.

Don't want to upset the harmony in the squad

Sounds like the last and worst of TOF's final years

We'll start the season with fucking Zinchenko, and then I'll have to go back on the meds

I'm still on them mate, but when slugchenko plays I double the dose and swallow them down with a triple Tequila.

'Ere, OB, send me your address and if we're ever about to start a game with Ramsdale, Zinchenko, Vieira, Havertz and Eddie in the line up, I'll phone an ambulance for you.

Just as well Xhaka has gone, or I'd be phoning the undertaker!!

Actually okay, I'll PM you the details.