Should Mikel Arteta Reconsider Benching Arsenal Stars After Man City's Draw?

Ian Wright has urged Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta to start both Gabriel Martinelli and Eberechi Eze, following their impactful performances during the recent 1-1 draw against Manchester City. Both players came off the bench, with Eze assisting Martinelli’s late equaliser, sparking discussions about their roles in the team.

Last updated: 29 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Ian Wright advocates for the inclusion of Martinelli and Eze in the starting XI.
• Both players made significant contributions after coming off the bench against Manchester City.
• Wright suggests that their attacking abilities could benefit Arsenal’s tactics against Newcastle United.
• Arteta faces a challenge managing a squad filled with talented players eager for playing time.
• Emmanuel Adebayor likens Arteta's situation to that of Pep Guardiola's early days at Barcelona.

The Match Context

In the recent clash between Arsenal and Manchester City, the Gunners found themselves trailing until the dying moments of the match. Eberechi Eze was introduced at half-time, replacing Mikel Merino, while Gabriel Martinelli entered the fray with just ten minutes left on the clock. Their late inclusion turned the tide, as Eze provided a crucial assist for Martinelli’s equalising goal in the 93rd minute, salvaging a point for Arsenal.

Why Martinelli and Eze Deserve a Starting Spot

Ian Wright's comments highlight the growing sentiment among fans and pundits that Martinelli and Eze should not only be seen as impact substitutes but as integral parts of the starting line-up. Their abilities to change the game were evident in their respective performances, and Wright believes their inclusion from the beginning could provide Arsenal with a much-needed attacking edge.

Arteta's Tactical Decisions

Arteta's decision to bench both Martinelli and Eze raised eyebrows, especially given Martinelli's recent form, which included a goal and an assist in Arsenal's Champions League victory over Athletic Bilbao. The manager's tactical choices are under scrutiny, particularly as fans and analysts speculate about his approach to utilising his squad’s depth effectively.

The Pressure on Arteta

As Arsenal prepares for their next Premier League fixture against Newcastle United, the pressure is mounting on Arteta to strike the right balance between squad rotation and player performance. With both Martinelli and Eze pushing for more minutes on the pitch, Arteta must navigate the expectations of his players while maintaining team cohesion.

Managing Player Expectations

Emmanuel Adebayor, another former Arsenal player, weighed in on Arteta's dilemma, comparing it to Pep Guardiola's early management challenges at Barcelona. Adebayor noted that Arteta will have players consistently knocking on his door, eager for playing time. This scenario complicates the manager's ability to keep everyone satisfied while also striving for optimal performance on the pitch.

The International Factor

Further complicating matters is the international nature of Arsenal's squad. Many players, including Martinelli and Eze, are not just competing for club positions but also for places in their respective national teams. The pressure to start regularly at the club level directly impacts their chances of international selection, adding an extra layer of urgency to Arteta's decisions.

Looking Ahead: Arsenal vs. Newcastle

As Arsenal gears up for their next encounter, the choice of starting XI will be crucial. The Gunners face Newcastle United, a team known for its robust defensive attributes and tactical discipline. Wright's assertion that Martinelli and Eze should be starting could provide Arsenal with the dynamic attack needed to break through Newcastle's defensive wall.

Potential Impact of Martinelli and Eze

Both players possess unique skill sets that can significantly enhance Arsenal's performance. Martinelli's pace and ability to create goal-scoring opportunities can stretch defences, while Eze's vision and passing accuracy provide the necessary creativity in the final third. Their combined presence could be the key to unlocking Newcastle's strategy and securing a vital win.

Conclusion

As Mikel Arteta contemplates his options, the voices of former players like Ian Wright and Emmanuel Adebayor serve as reminders of the importance of player management and squad dynamics. Balancing the needs of talented individuals with the overall strategy of the team remains a complex task. As Arsenal fans await the team's lineup against Newcastle, the inclusion of both Martinelli and Eze could be a game-changer.

How will Arteta navigate these challenges, and will he give Martinelli and Eze the starting roles they deserve? Only time will tell. #Arsenal #Martinelli #Eze

FAQs

Why did Ian Wright want Martinelli and Eze to start against Manchester City?

Ian Wright believes that both players possess the ability to significantly impact games and should be in the starting line-up to enhance Arsenal's attacking options.

What did Eze contribute in the match against Manchester City?

Eze provided an assist for Gabriel Martinelli's equalising goal, showcasing his playmaking ability and importance to the team.

How does squad depth affect Mikel Arteta's decisions?

With a talented squad, Arteta faces the challenge of keeping players satisfied while selecting the best XI to achieve success on the pitch.

What are the implications for players regarding national team selection?

Players like Martinelli and Eze need regular club appearances to remain in contention for their national teams, adding pressure for them to start matches consistently.

What challenges does Arteta face as Arsenal's manager?

Arteta must manage player expectations, squad rotation, and the need to win matches while maintaining team harmony and performance levels.