Why Arsenal could be League Champions this season

A mature, settled Midfield coupled with the potential of Oliver Giroud.

An irresistible attack consisting of Lukas Podolski, Santi Cazorla coupled with the killer finishing of Oliver Giroud, this Arsenal attack could be the most settled as compared to a couple of years before. Although, Giroud has failed to fire in the first three games of the season, his ability to get past stubborn defenses is proven as is his passing ability and his creation of chances for his team members.

The departures of key players like Thierry Henry, Ljunberg, Reyes had left them a lot of gaps which were found difficult to be filled by youngsters such as Fabregas, Nasri, Rosický, Alexander Hleb immediately, who were work in progress and subsequently left in search of “trophies”. But for the first time in about 5 seasons, Arsenal looks to have a well settled midfield, having players who are well into their prime and probably enjoying the best period of their playing careers. The return of a young but irresistible Jack Wilshere will inject fresh blood into the squad and hoping he remains fit of the remainder of the season, they will have midfield capable of emulating the heroics of the 2004 season where they went through the entire season unbeaten. Although they have drawn 2 and won 1 this season, their defense looks solid with the return of marshal Steve Bould and the attack just about begins to settle as Poldi and Cazorla start to settle with life in England. A special mention for the tireless Mikel Arteta, who virtually controls the midfield every time he steps on to the field.

Return of Diaby

I remember the impact Diaby made during the 2009-2010 season which was the first time he had a proper pre-season for the first time with Arsenal, pitching in with regular goals and assists along with playing his regular box-to-box type game with relative ease. And this was when he was competing for his position with Song and Fabregas. Now, that they both have departed, it’s all Diaby’s to play for. Although the competition had reduced with Fabregas having departed last year, the season was his worst due to injuries forcing him to make only 4 appearances in the League. Now, once again he has had a pre-season and I expect him to dominate the defensive midfield role with ease, marshalling the water tight defense they have.

Leading the line from the back

Although Vermaelen has been leading the backline for Arsenal since his arrival, naming him the captain of the side has proved to bring out the best in him. A strong character, Vermaelen has cherished captaining this side up till now which has been proved by the way he conducts himself and his team during a game. He has managed to make their defense a rock and have not conceded a goal till now. The arrival of Steve Bould has its own advantages, but with Vermaelen as the captain, both the appointments have happened co-incidentally and probably for the best of Arsenal Football Club.

Departure of Alex Song

Although one would argue that it was Song who had a good amount of assists for Van Persie last year, he could have been the ingredient that spoils the cake this season. With reports of him having a poor attitude on not getting a new contract with improved wages this season doing the rounds, and Wenger already having a fit Diaby, Wilshere, Arteta who can play in his position and probably better than him, it was certainly a right decision to cash in on him.

Having performed as an engine player for Arsenal, and been given the duty of a defensive midfielder, he often forays forward, neglecting his actual duties. Not only this, but lacking a personal discipline on the pitch with an irresponsible attitude, Wenger decision to sell him is a blessing in disguise for Diaby, Rosicky and probably Wilshere.