Mikel Arteta is staring at his whiteboard, probably whispering sweet nothings to it. With Gabriel out and Real Madrid looming like a final boss battle, Arteta’s headache isn’t tactical—it’s structural. One big question looms: who partners Saliba in the Champions League cauldron?
Arteta’s ‘Only Move One Piece’ Philosophy Faces a Real Test
Jakub Kiwior is the easy answer. He slotted in against Everton with the ease of someone folding a fitted sheet on the first try (almost magical). Ninety-four percent pass accuracy, 10 final-third entries, and TNT’s Man of the Match. But here’s the kicker: he won just one duel out of four. Not ideal when you’re preparing to face Kylian Mbappe, aka Chaos on Cleats.
If It Ain’t Broke, Don’t… But wait, it is broke, Arteta!
Enter Ben White. A man so intense he probably reviews his toothbrush grip like VAR. He’s a proven center-back, mentally bulletproof, and once delivered a pass so good it should’ve come with a ribbon. But he’s just returned from injury and hasn’t played a full 90 in months. Is it worth the gamble? Only Arteta knows, and we wouldn’t blame him for flipping a coin at this point.
Arteta Could Also Play It Safe With Timber… But Should He?
Jurrien Timber is another name tossed into this defensive stew. But asking him to stop, Vinicius Jr., is like asking a cat to babysit a room full of laser pointers. Timber might be better glued to right-back duties, where his one-on-one skills are less about chess and more about Mortal Kombat.
Final Whistle Thoughts: His Balancing Act
Arteta thrives on discipline, detail, and data. But Tuesday night will demand guts. Whether it’s Kiwior’s calm or White’s courage, someone will have to step into the fire. And if Arteta nails it, well—he might just write another chapter in Arsenal’s European fairytale.
Because let’s face it: if Arsenal want to see Munich in June, this decision better be spot on.
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