International breaks = momentum busters

Arsenal is 13 matches into the 2021/2022 season and are facing yet another international break. The third one of the season. You talk about a momentum buster, Nothing takes the wind out of your sails more than stopping the season, and sending some of your premier players away to face potential injury, in sometimes meaningless games. International breaks are like having the kids burst into the bedroom while you and and your significant other are busy doing other things. If you know what I mean?

Yes, I know I talk out of both sides of my mouth. Yes, I’m disappointed Emile Smith Rowe was snubbed again by Gareth Southgate, while on the other hand I’m thrilled for Bukayo Saka and Aaron Ramsdale. That aside, I’m still more concerned about my club then I am any of the national teams. Yes, I’m an American, and our men’s national team has never been a big player on the world stage, so my enthusiasm for the international game does not carry the same weight or tradition for me as it probably does for those living in Brazil, England, Spain, etc.

That aside, there has to be a better plan for FIFA to schedule these World Cup qualifiers. One thought regarding World Cup qualifiers. Why not have clubs like San Marino and Luxembourg hold play-offs among the lower ranked teams before they move up the ladder to play the likes of England or France in later rounds? It seems to me the big national teams are forced to play a lot of meaningless matches that no one really cares about. England v San Marino. Really?

Wait until next year and we face a very long World Cup break from November 21st to December 18th. Oh brother. Okay, enough of my venting about international breaks.

Once Arsenal gets back on the pitch on November 20th, they will have as many as of 16 matches to play before the next international break in late January. They will only play 14 games in that time frame if Sunderland eliminates the Gunners from the Carabao Cup on December 21st.

For me, this is really the heart of the Arsenal schedule. There will be so much opportunity to earn both points and success. 3 strong performances and we’re in the Carabao Cup final at Wembley. Wins over Big 6 clubs Liverpool, Manchester United, Manchester City and Tottenham and we’re set-up for a very strong run to the finish line in May.

Of course, that’s a lot of wishful thinking, however, if Arsenal can pick-up 3 points on Sunday v Watford, then come back strong and energized after the break, who knows what the the immediate future holds for Arsenal.

Cheers.

Gunner1953