#2 Four-man backline worked wonders for Emery, Koscielny brilliant
![Koscielny is proving to be a much superior partner for Sokratis than Mustafi.](https://statico.sportskeeda.com/editor/2019/01/19d2c-15479381962197-800.jpg?w=190 190w, https://statico.sportskeeda.com/editor/2019/01/19d2c-15479381962197-800.jpg?w=720 720w, https://statico.sportskeeda.com/editor/2019/01/19d2c-15479381962197-800.jpg?w=640 640w, https://statico.sportskeeda.com/editor/2019/01/19d2c-15479381962197-800.jpg?w=1045 1045w, https://statico.sportskeeda.com/editor/2019/01/19d2c-15479381962197-800.jpg?w=1200 1200w, https://statico.sportskeeda.com/editor/2019/01/19d2c-15479381962197-800.jpg?w=1460 1460w, https://statico.sportskeeda.com/editor/2019/01/19d2c-15479381962197-800.jpg?w=1600 1600w, https://statico.sportskeeda.com/editor/2019/01/19d2c-15479381962197-800.jpg 1920w)
Ever since his arrival, Emery's biggest problem at the Emirates has been his defense. Though they improved a lot offensively, they struggled at the back.
The Spanish manager experimented with a back three on quite a few occasions this season, to varying effect, but opted for a well drilled 4-3-3 with Aubameyang and Ramsey flanking Lacazette, being supported by bombing fullbacks, Bellerin and Kolasinac.
Sokratis and Koscielny put in an excellent shift, keeping Hazard & Co quiet for the entirety of the match. The Arsenal centre-back duo never gave them space or time to dictate play. Laurent Koscielny was brilliant on the night and produced a Man of the Match performance. Sokratis supported his partner well and had a good game.