Thursday’s Odds and Ends

Here are some random odds and ends for this Thursday…

TIME MACHINE:
It’s always fun to see where we were a year ago, and boy, what a difference a year makes!
One year ago today, Arsenal was managed by Unai Emery, and at this stage on the calendar, the Gunners had already completed a nine-game preseason schedule, and were four games into the Premier League season. Arsenal was 2-1-1, with victories over Newcastle United and Burnley, a loss at Liverpool, and a draw with Tottenham Hotspur.

On September 1, 2019, this is how the Gunners lined-up v Tottenham…
Aubameyang, Lacazette, Pepe
Torreira, Xhaka, Guendouzi
Maitland-Niles, Sokratis, Luiz, Kolasinac
Leno

All of these players are still at the club today, however, at least five of those names could be gone by October 5th. What a difference a year makes, right?

INTERNATIONAL BREAK:
The Nations League starts today with the first round of group stage games. In case you need a refresher, here’s UEFA’s official purpose for the Nations League…
“The rejuvenation of national team football, and the UEFA Nations League, stems from the desire of UEFA and its 55 member associations to improve the quality and standing of national-team football. UEFA and its associations wanted more sporting meaning in national-team football, with associations, coaches, players and supporters increasingly of the opinion that friendly matches do not provide adequate competition for national teams.”

Today’s premier Nations League match features Spain v Germany at 2:45 pm on ESPN+.

WANTS TO COME HOME:
Former Arsenal great, Sol Campbell, has expressed an interest to join Mikel Arteta’s backroom coaching staff. Campbell has said, “If something came up, I would be interested. I would love to join the coaching staff. Put my name forward and I’ll be there.” Campbell has had managerial experience at both Macclesfield Town and Southend United.

U-TURNS:
The transfer window never fails to provide drama. Here’s three for you…
1) Lionel Messi…reports say he was ready to sign with Man City, now his father says Messi is 90% staying at Barcelona.
2) Dayot Upamecano…he signs a new contract with RB Leipzig, then goes back on the transfer market reportedly talking to Man United and Arsenal.
3) Ainsley Maitland-Niles…it looked like a sure thing AMN was headed to Wolves, but a massive performance in the Community Shield will probably keep him at Arsenal, where he belongs.

Have a great Thursday!

Cheers.

Gunner1953