3 things we learned from Chelsea vs Arsenal

#2 Granit Xhaka needs to be benched

Granit Xhaka

Another game, another Granit Xhaka no-show. This story is becoming too frequent for Arsenal’s liking.

After a poor display against City where he looked off the pace, Xhaka started again to the surprise of many. He didn’t cover himself in glory and was replaced at half-time. Xhaka was signed a few seasons back to be Arsenal’s enforcer in midfield, but unfortunately he has been a pale shadow of the enforcer Arsenal craved.

Against Chelsea, he was poor in his decision making and put the defence under unnecessary pressure while playing out from the back. Though he possesses an exquisite passing range, he seems to have gone into a shell.

Another drawback of playing Xhaka is the pressure (or lack of it) he applies on the opposition midfielders.

With Arsenal seeming intent on playing a high line, affording the midfielders space is a cardinal sin. Arsenal were guilty of it time and again, paying the price when Morata broke the offside trap to make the net bulge.

While Xhaka was on the pitch, Arsenal didn’t apply the required pressure to make the high line work. However, after he went off - Arsenal pulled off the high line much better.

After giving Xhaka a second chance to prove his case, Emery’s patience might just have run out. Torreira and Guendouzi seem to be complementing each other very well. If Emery is to get his first win, dropping Xhaka seems to be the best option.