A view of the emerging Arsenal

Eight seasons, zero trophies, big names leaving the club in search for silverware. Arsenal fans rejoice and console themselves by qualifying for the Champions League.

But this season, Arsenal have changed a lot. Despite big names out with injuries, Arsenal have continued their good form, and more importantly, their winning mentality.

The main reasons behind their re-emergence are:

1. Back four solid: Koscileny has matured a lot. Sagna has proved his worth in the central defence. Jenkinson is improving down the flanks. Gibbs has developed a strong attacking instinct inside him. Last but not the least, the huge positive is the presence of the big and tall Per Mertesacker, who prevents aerial threats and can come as a cover for Kos if he commits any mistake. Continuously providing the goals through defence, whether as an assist or a goal, Arsenal’s defence that had disappeared for the last eight seasons has gone lively now. Huge positive indeed.

2. Roaming midfield: Arsenal has employed a strategy that has seen them confusing the opposition and taking the attack through every individual. Though Arsenal have started with Ramsey and Flamini as defensive midfield options, they have progressed upwards continuously with the likes of Walcott, Wilshere, Gnabry and Ozil covering up the defensive duties in their absence. Every player is taking the responsibility of the team on his shoulders.

3. The Ozil effect: With a world class player in the squad, the team has grown in confidence. Obviously, having a player like Ozil in the squad lifts the morale of the team. With the arrival of Ozil the squad has the confidence that they can lift the silverware this season, and we have witnessed the effect already.

4. Attacking threat: The stats indicate Arsenal have more shots on target than any other team. The positive belief has helped them. Whenever they have a chance to shoot, Arsenal haven’t taken a step backwards. The positive approach that was missing from the last seasons has come alive now. Giroud is striking goals continuously. The “Triangle Play” between the players has emerged as the goal-scoring opportunity. The hesitation of being inside the box has disappeared.

Arsenal have started believing in their abilities. The positive managing duties taken up by Arsene Wenger have helped them. I hope and I wish Arsenal continue to play with the same belief.

Hopefully we will see Arsene and Arsenal lifting silverware this season.