4 step explanation of how Arsenal's 3-4-3 formation under Unai Emery works

#4 Versatility

The 3-4-3 formation has given Emery more flexibility to make changes

Another key highlight of this formation has been the sheer versatility it has shown. Emery has often noticed certain flaws in his tactics, and has made several spontaneous substitutions at halftime.

The most noticeable was his decision to bring on Ramsey and Lacazette for Iwobi and Mkhitaryan during the North London derby. While the formation now changed to the shape of a 3-5-2, the basic tactical foundation of the formation remained the same. Except only now Aaron Ramsey occupied the space left between centre backs by Tottenham.

This has been a recurring problem for Tottenham this season, and Eric Dier has often had to fill in this gap. But Eric Dier is not a natural defender, and cannot cope with the pace of Arsenal's attack. This saw Aaron Ramsey beautifully set up two goals, and Arsenal run away as 4-2 winners.

The formation has allowed Emery to make several such changes to the team when he feels they are not performing well. The Spaniard isn't afraid to make changes early, and brings on players who he feels can provide more to the game.

The 3-4-3 formation has given Emery more flexibility to make these changes, giving the team a few minor tweaks to win games.

Overall, the formation has allowed players like Kolasinac, Iwobi, Aubameyang, Torreira, and Rob Holding come alive this season, and produce world-class performances. It will be interesting to see how Emery deals with the return of Mesut Özil, and if he will change his formation to accommodate the German.

Arsenal faces Manchester United at Old Trafford next, and will hope to exploit the absence of Ashley Young with this approach. Aaron Ramsey will most likely take the place of suspended Granit Xhaka, which will provide more drive and a more aggressive press against a United side happy to sit back and defend.