How would Willian fit into the new Arsenal scheme?

It looks fairly certain former Chelsea winger Willian will join the Gunners some time this week. Following Chelsea’s elimination from the Champions League yesterday, the Brazilian is now out of contract and free to go elsewhere, and elsewhere is probably across London to the Emirates.

Today, Willian wrote a heartfelt letter to the Chelsea supporters. [Check out Notes and Quotes Worthing Repeating on the front page of this website]

So, how would Willian fit into Mikel Arteta’s plans?

In a standard 4-3-3, I’m seeing Saka moving to the left wing, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang or Alexandre Lacazette playing central in front of goal, with Willian playing on the right wing.

Now, if Aubameyang signs a new Arsenal contract, look for Lacazette to go elsewhere, and if Willian signs at Arsenal, look for Pepe to become more of a role player than a starter.

Arteta will also have Eddie Nketiah, Reiss Nelson and Gabriel Martinelli to rotate into the Arsenal front line. Not a bad back-up group, right?

Adding Willian would hopefully take some of the goal scoring load off our striker. The Brazilian can also provide more chances and assists for our offense, which was lacking in the past season. Personally, I think Willian will provide an upside for the Gunners, even at age 32.

This is an exciting time for the Arsenal Football Club. There will be some tough decisions to make in the days ahead, and we will see some players come, and some go. However, like any professional sports franchise, it’s time for a facelift, and if Arteta can sign the likes of Aubameyang, Willian, Partey, Countinho and Gabriel, the coming season should provide a few chills and thrills for the Arsenal faithful!

Cheers, and stay healthy and safe!

Gunner1953