International teams and their similarities to European clubs

Netherlands- Arsenal

Netherlands has always been a side that has been refreshing in attack, but has remained a side with a weak defense. It's no different with Arsenal, as they possess an attacking line that would compete with the best clubs on the planet, but a defensive line that is capable of crumbling even against weak sides.

Netherlands was the pioneer of the style 'total football', in which any outfield player was capable of playing in any position, making it difficult for the opposition to defend. However, they have to failed to evolve and change their tactics despite not possessing the players to play in such a demanding style.

Arsenal meaning favoured a pass and move style under Arsene Wenger, and the last few years of his reign was a major struggle as he simply lacked the players to play in such a style. Wenger too persisted with the same style, showing a lack of adaptability despite knowing that it didn't suit his players.

Netherlands reached the final of the 2010 World Cup, while Arsenal reached the Champions League final in 2006, where both these sides lost to Spanish opposition. They performed well for a few years after that before dropping to low heights. Netherlands has failed to qualify for the last two international tournaments and Arsenal has failed to qualify for the UEFA Champions League for the second year in succession.

The future too looks bleak for these sides as their competitors are making rapid progress while the progress has halted in their teams