Having seven games to fit into the following 22 days, Arsenal is going to face a season that will demand the depth and resilience of the squad assembled by Mikel Arteta. The chances of allowing the young talents, such as Ethan Nwaneri, to shine could be opening.
The Fixture Congestion Challenge
The frenzied spell starts with a London derogatory with Fulham that starts at Craven Cottage on October 18. It is the first of seven matches. That will follow an international break after which it will face a Champions League game with Atletico Madrid. This kind of merciless game schedule cannot but cause the necessity of making changes in the squad. This is to regulate the physical condition of players and preserve the level of performance.
A Shift in Philosophy
This overcrowding appears to be coming at the moment where Mikel Arteta is actively developing his philosophy of managing the squad. He has also indicated publicly that he is shifting towards a more fluid design. That is not based on an established hierarchy in which selection is determined by fit and status quo depending on tactical requirements and present circumstances.
Arteta said he will create a team that you look at the team, and cannot tell who plays tomorrow. This is because of the evolving of the game, the number of games. We have, 70, 75 games a year, he wants to have a very deep, competitive team. The philosophy can be essential to steer through busy schedules and ensure that the team remains fresh and unpredictable.
The Opportunity for Emerging Talent
Martin Odegaard’s injury disqualifies him to play in the Fulham game. It has direct effect of vacating an advanced midfield position. Although the more experienced Eberechi Eze is a sure contender to start. The necessity to have a rotation and control minutes over a number of competitions implies that Nwaneri will be in a position to get more chances of contributing.
Author’s Opinion
With Arsenal going to face such a rigorous 22-day period, it is possible that the efforts made by the whole team could be the deciding factor in keeping the club competitive in both the premier league and champions league. In the case of young players such as Ethan Nwaneri, this stage is a vital opportunity to rise up and be more of a playing component in the quest of the team to win silverware.
As featured on GoonerNews.com
