Journalist Charles Watts has urged Arsenal to take action this summer to address one squad shortcoming that was obvious against Manchester City.
Arsenal lacked an attacking outlet against Manchester City on Sunday.
Whilst the Gunners produced a magnificent defensive effort at the Etihad Stadium, when opportunities to spring counter-attacks did arise, the north London club failed to capitalise.
There were moments and half-chances, but a lack of pace in the final third cost Mikel Arteta’s side. With Gabriel Martinelli unfit to start due to injury, and Bukayo Saka clearly short of fitness himself on the right-flank, Arsenal lacked sharpness in key areas.
After the match, Arteta admitted that Saka was “fatigued,” and in truth, without their usual threat from the wide areas, Arsenal looked rather toothless in attack.
Arsenal squad issue exposed v Man City
Leandro Trossard is a skilful player, who has made a positive impact in his time at the Emirates Stadium. However, the 29-year-old lacks the pace to punish opposition teams that have been caught on the break. Equally, Gabriel Jesus’ lack of killer instinct in the box was an issue against his former club on Sunday.
Seeing this flaw cast in an unforgiving light, Charles Watts has now called on Arteta to address this issue in the upcoming summer transfer window.
Speaking on his Inside Arsenal YouTube channel, the reporter said, “I think the lack of pace for Arsenal was really evident yesterday. Martinelli not playing was a massive, massive blow. A massive miss. I think with Martinelli fit and at 100%, I think Arsenal win that game…When you look at that Mudryk type player, who can just stretch teams, who has got that just searing pace. It’s something that is missing in Arsenal, and I think it is something they definitely need to look at come the summer…missing at the moment, and I think it is hurting them a little bit.”
How Mikel Arteta can address flaw with Arsenal wingers
Arsenal were heavily linked with a move for Mykhailo Mudryk before he ultimately made the move to Chelsea. Whilst the Ukrainian ace has flaws in his game, he is undeniably rapid.
Arteta is thought to be a keen admirer of Wolves winger Pedro Neto. The Portuguese star can operate on either flank. Neto is also faster than Saka, as he has registered an astonishing top speed in the Premier League this season. However, Arsenal have been warned off making a move for Neto due to his recurrent injury issues.
What is clear, though, is that cover for Saka and Martinelli is required in the form of a player who can replicate their pace and directness. As things stand, without that electric duo fit or firing on all cylinders – as was the case against Manchester City – Arsenal clearly find it difficult to land a killer blow.