There is an important pre-game boost for Arteta. The center-back Gabriel Magalhães has passed and declared fully fit to start against West Ham United. The Brazilian international had been a concern when he was withdrawn midway through the second half of the midweek Champions League win over Olympiacos. However, after evaluation, the club’s medical staff confirmed Magalhães is fit to start alongside William Saliba at center-back. This is a big boost for Arsenal’s defense heading into the Premier League fixture.
Arsenal’s Strategic Rotations
Manager Mikel Arteta makes a big overhaul of his squad. He made five changes to the starting XI from Wednesday’s European match. This demonstrates the rigours of the modern schedule and the quality of options the squad now possesses. In the change to the starting team, some important first-team players are getting restoration. Jurrien Timber returns to right-back and new signing Riccardo Calafiori comes in as left-back. Declan Rice returns to the base of the midfield while the creative Eberechi Eze earns a start in an advanced midfield role.
Arsenal’s Attack-Minded Blueprint
The calculated rotations point to an obvious, attack-minded tactical plan from Arteta. One of the most striking aspects was having both captain Martin Ødegaard and Eberechi Eze at the heart of the action from the start. It shows a clear desire to control possession and create many chances. Bukayo Saka is back on the right wing for his 200th Premier League appearance. With him back in the lineup it obviously strengthens Arsenal’s attacking options and makes the lineup significantly better than earlier from Arsenal in the week.
Author’s Opinion
Although, Gabriel Magalhães is alright and passed the test, it is sensible to not use him for this week. Meanwhile, Martin Odegaard again suffered injury in today’s match against West Ham United. This might be a call for his fitness speculation which furthermore explains my views on Gabriel. Arsenal’s needs patience as frequent injuries might effect the club in long term.
As featured on GoonerNews.com
