Mikel Arteta’s newest problem

For any coach or manager, having too many good players competing for the same starting positions is a good problem to have.
And for Mikel Arteta, his problem is that he now has a plethora of good center backs.

Let’s take a look.
Gabriel Magalhaes had been the Gunners top defender this season. Right? However, since he contracted COVID-19, the new defensive duo of Rob Holding and Pablo Mari has been very impressive, allowing only 1 goal in 3 Premier League matches.

Then there is David Luiz and Calum Chambers. Throughout his career, Luiz has been inconsistent. He’ll string together a series of great games, then have a total meltdown that costs his team dearly. Chambers on the other hand, has come back from injury, and has shown he is good to go. However, the Englishman will remain the odd man out in this current scenario. In my opinion, Chambers should be sent on loan to gain valuable playing time. Look at what the loan spell sis for Holding last season at Fulham.

Then, of course, there’s Shkrodan Mustafi. He’s always been there in a pinch, but I think his time is up at Arsenal and should be allowed to leave, permanently.

So, back to Arteta’s problem. Do you immediately slot Gabriel back into the starting line-up and sit Mari, and make Mari and Luiz your #2 center back duo? Or, do you keep working with the successful combination you’ve had in recent matches?

Those are good questions. right? I’m sure glad I don’t have to make that decision. That’s why Arteta gets the big bucks!

Cheers.
Gunner1953