Further evidence that Arsenal have finally found a plan B
While they are known to still self-destruct from time to time, Arsenal have proven they can sacrifice their normally fluid style in order to win ugly, and tonight’s performance is another example that shows they are capable of doing just that.
The emergence of Francis Coquelin has provided the Gunners with much needed steel in the centre of the park, which has significantly helped their cause in being able to provide further protection to the back four, but to also soak up pressure from them the opposition and counter-attack with purpose, combining the pace and guile of Walcott, Ozil and Alexis Sanchez.
Wenger has come in for much criticism for his apparent lack of tactical dissection, usually backing his players to outlast the opposition with his philosophy of possession and patience. Gritty wins away at both the Manchester clubs and now this latest triumph against the might of Bayern underlines that Arsenal have turned the corner and can now match it with the very best.
Displays of tactical flexibility such as this provide further evidence of Arsenal’s maturity, and after the countless big-game meltdowns two seasons ago, it seems Wenger and co. have finally found what it takes to be competitive in games of this magnitude.
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