Usually July would be too early to start thinking about this but given how fast we’ve moved in the market, I’ve found myself more interested than usual at this time of year.
I’m really keen to hear, especially from those who have watched more of our new players than I have, how we might change our system with our new signings.
I know on Reddit a lot of people were dismissive of playing two inverted full backs together but from what I’ve read about Rice and Timber, is it possible we could deploy him, Zinchenko and Timber in the same lineup? Rice and Timber could share the responsibility of dropping into the back 3 while the other and Zinchenko sit at the base of midfield cycling the ball to our 5 up front.
I’m also very interested to see how Martinelli adapts his game with a new mainstay at left 8. If we play jorgi/partey (or Lavia/Caicedo 🙏) at 6 and give Rice some games at the 8, I honestly have no idea what he’s like as a player there but given that he’s more defensive than xhaka I could see Martinelli being possibly more isolated than last season. Havertz, ESR, Trossard could unleash our 11 even further though.
Another thought… Will Arteta play two strikers this season? I know havertz has had some time as a second striker. Is his profile different enough from Jesus, Trossard to allow having two of them up top? I know he’s big and could develop as a target man but from everything I’ve read it’s not his style. If he is yet another support striker/false 9 type player then this option is probably off the table.
Anyway, keen to hear people’s thoughts and apologies if this isn’t the kind of post people want to see. It felt too long for DD but if I get a negative response I’m happy to shift this sort of thing there.
I know on Reddit a lot of people were dismissive of playing two inverted full backs together
We absolutely could, they don’t have to be inverting at the same time. IF they did, Partey and Rice in the same team could cover both positions.
Doesn’t leave any room for Havertz, but I don’t see us lining up this way all too often.
Last season we were eventually worn down, teams figured us out, and Arteta didn’t have the quality in the squad to rotate. The tactical flexibility of our 3 signings so far are addressing all three of these issues.
I’m very excited about the new season, in part because we can’t predict with certainty how it all fits together. And if we as a fanbase can’t do it, other teams won’t be able to, either.
We could play Partey Rice and Havertz at RB, DM and left 8 respectively; doesn’t necessarily leave no room for Havertz.
I think he meant if we play both Timber and Zinchenko as inverted full backs. In that case you would be very exposed if you are playing Havertz left 8. in that case it would probably be Rice at 8.
We’re known to play a 3-2-5 formation during buildup but that’s not always the case, I remember talks of a 2-3-5 formation last season in some games were both Zinny and White were inverted playing in midfield alongside Partey.
My memory isn’t too good but I think this happened against Newcastle at home, correct me if I’m wrong.
The history nerd inside me finds it funny that after a hundred years we’re back to the 2-3-5 lol
Was this a common formation in a bygone era? I would love to learn more if you’ve got any good resources you can point me to.
Fashion, football, and all things, come in cycles.
Actually yes thinking back to that game I think you might be right. I’d have to watch it but they were sitting very deep against us.
I think the big thing here is, Arteta is going for players that a multi-positional. I don’t think we can see tactics in a traditional “formation” sense. Wether out of possession, in transition or in possession.
I think the aim is to have a very fluid squad of intelligent players rotating positions in game to create passing lanes and spaces. Following a single “ethos”.
This is what we’ve seen glimpses off so far with Gabi and Gabi up front on the left. Saka and Martin also on the right. I think the signings shift the balance more equalateral to rotating all over. The centre, the channels, the wings and upfront.
This was a great read, cheers OP
Thanks mate - I like to think I consume enough Arsenal related media to have some idea lol. My weakness is not paying attention to other teams or leagues, so I like to hear what others have to say.
Also appreciate how much effort you put into putting out content here!
I haven’t seen enough of Rice or Havertz to really comment and have only seen comp videos of Timber.
My guess is we’ll still line up as a 4-3-3 in possession and 4-4-2 without the ball.
From there, everything is up for grabs!
Two inverted fullbacks? Maybe, but it might leave the cbs exposed.
I’m currently leaning toward Rice stepping in for Partey and Havertz in the left 8. But who knows what Mikel has up his sleeve - it will be fascinating to watch.
