The opposition have stopped doing that after the first month of last season. IMO, there have been more injuries at the start of this season compared to the last one. The front three of Martinelli, Jesus and Saka have played 1 or 2 full matches.
It really feels like smthing Arteta is deliberately doing as well - being calmer on the ball and not being as fast paced. Perhaps its still experimental or he is pacing them for the long season instead.
definitely can be seen during the man city match where last season, we just threw ourselves at the keeper in order to always be "pressing high" leaving huge gaps that city exploited through long balls. This season i even remember this image of odegard telling his teammates to stay put when ederson had the ball instead of just running at thim like dogs
Unlike last season, were we saw a very fast arsenal, that tried to put the game to an end in the first 20 mins, which in the end shows us how outbreath they became and then lost the title. But This season, i think arteta is trying for the long run, and told his players to conserve energy when playing below table teams. And there is also some rotations which arteta didnt make last season. I think if they play like this in the first half of the seoson and still be top, then they can outburst their conserved energy in the last games of the seoson and can win the league.
Yes, Arteta is improving as a manager as well. City do the same, stroll though the league until the second half when they put their foot on the pedal. Let's see if Arsenal can keep up this time.
Great observation, I see the same thing as you. I do think that Arsenal should try to find an 8 type midfielder in the winter transfer window to help their buildup through the middle because I don't think they're strong or dynamic enough in the build-up play to come out on top of City.
@@Kzeditzzz387 He's teaching them the Pep attack - slow and controlled. Last year they would go faster and get beat on the counter. The attack is going to improve as they get used to this.
@@Asshat237 I full on agree odegaard is going through a challenge also martinelli and saka. It would be easy for them now they have to learn and figure out how to play well when defences sit back
Last season everyone said we started to fast and we eventually burnt out. This year we are playing with more control of games, against more low blocks, and with the aim of going until the end.
This shows that the gunners are evolving as a team. Similar to klopp’s first 3 seasons at Liverpool, where they pressed like mad dogs and outscored their opponents. The title winning season showed their ability to close out and win games by a single goal. Arsenal is moving towards that trajectory as well, overall they’ve looked a lot more solid especially with rice on the midfield
totally agree with you. This season has been about building from the back being solid and giving the opposition little to no chances and counter attacks to work with. this team did not just forget how to attack. We will get there and i fear for the other teams. We would not concede silly goals like lasts season for sure. Whatever the opposing team they would have to work harder to create chances against this Arsenal team. Ask city how they felt at the Emirates. We know we can score and create chances at any given period of the game. COYGs
@koutanot I haven't seen a team fail up so spectacularly like spurs. The amount of lucky third bounces falling to them after horrid passes getting blocked by the opposition is amazing. Only people on that team playing with anything resembling good form is maddison and the GK. Not to mention the lucky calls they've gotten this season...
Bar 3/4 teams in Europe everyone now parks the bus. There are also tactical tweets from Arteta to make Arsenal more flexible and less predictable. The biggest change or improvement I have noticed with the team this year is that they are less vulnerable on the transition and look more solid. Declan Rice has a lot to do with that. Outstanding singing.
Arteta is building a multi-functional side which can attack in different ways and also be defensively sound against changing opposition. It's remarkable to me when people don't rate him as a manager. As a United fan these videos are fascinating, if not wholly depressing!
Partey's absence hurts build-up through the middle, if he were healthy more often the direct attacks through the middle would definitely be better. He seems to be our only midfielder that can receive the ball with his back to goal and turn a pressing opposing player. If Arsenal get an 8 that is technical enough to play in the half spaces and can play passes through the lines like Xhaka used to for us I think Arsenal can win the league. Right now I think what's getting the gunners over the line is the different styles of play they can implement and the quality they have throughout the squad.
Arsenal have on paper more difficult first 10 games compared to last season. Also last season Arsenal was a bit of unknown to the rest of the league, nobody expected us to compete for the title and I think it worked in our favor. This season teams know who we are and what we can do, so they play even more defensively than before.
@TP-pq9xx I think this highlights more the fact that most other teams underestimated Arsenal in the first part of last season compared to this season. There are also more competetive teams this season than last season who are taking points away from Arsenal - Arsenal only had to worry about Man City being a consistently good team, but now Liverpool, Man City and Tottenham are in serious title contender form, at least in this early part of the season. For example last season you would expect Arsenal to beat Tottenham, whereas this season they have already drawed because Tottenham have had a serious uptick in form.
@TP-pq9xx Yeah but you must remember we hadn't played City in our first 19 games. We started looking a bit unsure of ourselves after we lost 1-3 at home. Those first 19 games though were outrageous.
@@kd5973 Arsenal will naturally be high on that list simply by being a quality team and is expected to be better than most teams. Last year we played United (A), Spurs (H) and Liverpool (H), winning one game comfortably, one barely and losing the game against United. This year we played 4 derby games (including City), won two, and drew two. And draws came from teams who are objectively in a better shape and form than they were last season. Don't forget that Arsenal also had Everton (A) who they didn't beat away from home in a couple of years. All I want to say is that it's much easier to create form and for a team to look good when you play easier games consecutively. If you are playing difficult fixtures every 2-3 games where a small difference determines the outcome, of course, it's going to be harder for everything to gel and feel smooth and direct. Arsenal didn't play particularly well against Sheffield either and they smacked them 5-0, that just shows how good they are, and that's also a warning to other teams, that if they don't take us seriously and play defensive football they will get punished hard. I fully expect us to pick up the form and look much better when we get run of easier fixtures. So the fact that we played 4 darbies and 2 very difficult games away in the first 10 game weeks, without losing and being just 2 points away from the top is a great start to the season
In 10 games in the league so far we have 11 different goal scorers and 8 different assist providers. Saliba and Gabriel had 5 goals between them last season, havent scored yet, zinchencko had 1 goal and a few assists, none yet. By the end of the season we will probably have the whole team, including 5-6 reserve players all scoring or assisting, same like last season actually. Yes, we are not as flashy on the eye, but I couldnt care less if this means we are more solid defensively and avoid collapsing towards the end.
@@eleonarcrimson858 the title of the video is based on Arsenal not being as fluid, direct, flashy, whatever you want to call it, compared to last season. If we were playing the same football as last season, this video will not exist. I hope this clears it for you.
@@paveldimitrov998 the video is about how arsenal are having difficulty in progressing the ball through the center of the field because of personnel changes and being forced to go wide and teams having enough time to get back to their defensive shape because of that. And if you do not build your attack through the center you do not get high xg chances hence they are not effective in attack. Flashiness is just a word you just spawned because you actually didnt watch the video or you didn’t understand it(i gave you the benefit of the doubt and assumed you didn’t watch it fully, i might take back that assumption though you might just be stupid)
This clearly suggests to me that there is a deliberate decision related to this. Perhaps it is pacing - all of this change, yet we’re still unbeaten and 2nd in the league. If we have the ability to turn on the style from last year later on in the league this time rather than outpacing ourselves too early, then that surely is a good thing.
Yeah that's what I think too. Come the latter stages of the season we can go up another gear and fatigue won't be an issue. My only concern is if we struggle to switch on offensively
When your goalscoring relies on fluidity, tough games and situations you need to score goals urgently, forces you to take insane risks. Seems Arteta sacrifice the suddenness of Arsenal's attacking prowess to have more control over games.
Theres literally a graph showing that Arsenal tend to attack through the right side where Saka/White/Odegaard triangle is, because Arsenal are struggling to break opponents press with Rice. Teams like Lens, Chelsea and Fulham used this and managed to neutralize Arsenal's attacking potential. We need to be more creative in the build-up rather than using one flank constantly.
That was a good analysis. I know you were comparing Arsenal's performance this season to the previous ones but it would have been good to look at the goals and chances created this season compared to other teams. Arsenal has one of the highest goal-scoring records for the season among the other clubs. That offers another perspective as to how other teams are playing this season.
Really good video. I think Mikel took from last season that we didn't get over the line due to defensive frailty (43 goals conceded compared to City conceding 33). Conceding 11 goals in 4 games during the run in (Liverpool, WH, Soton, City) was what did us in. This is why we signed Raya, Rice and Havertz and now playing a slower tempo. Last season we gave away too many goals at Anfield (2), Eithad (4) and OT (3).
I think Arteta has focussed more on making us a wall rather than a deadly spear. We struggled more OOP last year and I feel our games this year have way more control. I also think your point about cup tournaments and how our defensive transition suits these more. I think this is something that has been heavily emphasised by Arteta in our league games, the sharing penalty takers so that we have multiple people that have the experience to step up to the spot. as well as like you said the defensive control we have to force teams to commit more numbers in attacking. I think we are still a little off where we want to be but I genuinely do believe we are edging closer to a Man City like control on games.
u didn't talked about controls & organisations at all! Arsenal this season is not about how to score the goal, it's about *WHEN* to score the goal! scoring in later games means the oppositions have fewer chances to actually comeback (aka vs liverpool last season) against them. all they have to do is controlling the game in the first half (trying not to get conceded) and then unleashes the attacking phases later in the game. not to mention their organisations, which is the understanding of Mikel's tactics, are much more discipline this season.
I understand that there was A LOT of information to get through.. but damn dude.. you were SPEEDING through this video.. Talking so fast and ZERO space to breathe, ingest and digest the info. I'm gonna have to watch this again. But thank you for the work, really appreciate that it's here!!
I think a lot of attacking expectations were prepared for timber. So we aren't freely doing what we prepared in summer, but as a unit we play we with a lot of control and intensity over the oponent. I don't find the matches boring at all, I find them played with an intense purpose.
You bring up Havertz when talking about Arsenal being better out of possession but then don't provide any insight into what he's actually contributing to that?
at the end of the day we had the same structure but different player profile, the fact that somehow when our strongest first 11 never ever played together we still only lost one game on all competition just shows that reducing the pace/tempo and winning the field tilt battle still produce positive result.
The only thing missing is the mention of how deep opposition teams are sitting against Arsenal, we’ve faced the lowest defensive line in all of Europe if I’m not mistaken! Excellent video though 👏🏼
2 videos on Aston Villa since Emery's appointment and both have a hint of skepticism, at what point does Emery's success become the team are just good and will you make a video?
perfectly demonstrates why i think havertz is a good signing for arsenal as a defensive forward. this is a year of consolidating and Arteta wants to make sure we stay in the top 4 by building a strong defensive platform for this squad. we were way ahead of schedule last year and Arteta knows that and doesnt want us dropping off, like so many teams do after short term success. Next season players like havertz will start to express themselves a bit more, with Arteta just wanting him doing the basics and learning the system. What Pep does with all his signings. They have a down season for their first, and then kick on (e.g. Grealish, Cancelo, Rodri). Being a top team requires stability. Then the brilliance on top of that makes you a great team
@@adventurerwannabe what are you smoking he has literally just been fine. The worst signing you’ve ever seen? Sancho? Hazard? Mustafi? You’re just following along with what you’ve read on twitter. He has been completely fine in every way. Hasn’t made any mistakes. Hasn’t cost us anything. He just hasn’t been good enough. He’s young enough and will bed in. People called Grealish a flop in his first year at City. Last season he was one of the best players in the league
@@Heart_Burn_Ouch my mistake. Worst signing i have ever seen at Arsenal. Mustafi didnt cost half his price and was actually good for like his first 20 games. 65m for "he hasnt done anything wrong" is the worst value for money i have ever seen at our club. Could have just played El neny for that kind of performances.
@@adventurerwannabe again tho I just think it’s mad to say he’s been the worst signing ever. We’re 10 games in to the season. 35 million at the time mustafi was bought was at a time where the most expensive player in the world cost 80million. Players sometimes take time to settle and he has barely been coached properly since he broke through in Germany. He’s playing a good amount and we’re winning games. It’s wrong to write him off after less than 1000 minutes of football in an Arsenal shirt and also isn’t exactly getting behind the club. The scouts and manager saw something in him for our system. They haven’t got many of these wrong. Not by any means saying he is a sure thing or has lived up to my expectations, but if he beds in and has a great season next year and we end up winning the league, the whole statement is pointless isn’t it? He’s clearly a player with a lot of talent. He’s not some donkey. Give the kid a chance
@@Heart_Burn_Ouch sure he can still come good. But So far there has been zero evidence to suggest he will...He has been shocking for that price...so far i have not seen anything to suggest he is talented either...i thought he was supposed to be technically Gifted. So far i havent seen him execute a single difficult Pass or ball control or dribble. Only ok thing has been he runs around a lot...but thats nothing el neny couldnt give us
As ever, well articulated but massively wide of the mark. Missing out several contexts of what is actually going this year. Arteta has moved Arsenal to being a more cautious/risk adverse team this season to avoid chaotic games which happened a lot last season. Arsenal are trying to avoid turnovers in vulnerable positions (central & half space areas). Losing/turnover the ball in the wider pockets and in deep attacking areas. This means it reduces the chance of conceding big chances a lot. You can see this in the goals conceded and xGa stats. The field tilt and ball possesion stats show how Arsenal are dominant and patient this season and therefore are much harder to beat. The theory being you have the difference makers in Saka, Martinelli and Jesus who are likely to score during a game. The issues have been selecting a balanced side and this has affected Odegaard more than anyone. His skills are better suited to a deeper 2nd phase midfielder. However, hes been tasked with playing higher almost as a SS/10. He is better coming onto the play and arriving late into the box on the end of chances (how he scored the majority of his goals last season). Instead he has looked out of sorts as he is too high positioned to start with. If he played the deeper position in the LCM role then he would look a lot more comfortable and be able to have a good partnership in Martinelli who will be the willing runner to get on the end of his passes (think Brighton away last season). Kai Havertz, ESR & Vieira would be a lot more suited to the higher positioned RCM as they are all more natural 10s and have that instinct in and around the box. Once Arteta can figure this out, Odegaard and Arsenal will go up another gear.
Just a few things I’d like to add. 1) Quality of opposition this season so far is arguably higher than the same number of games last season. 2) the slow progression tires opponents late in the game hence the late goals scored. 3) slower progression and a better rest defense means the physical toll put on the players is lower than a fast paced, open game
They started last season fast but it costed them in the end They have to play a more a mature season to fight for it like the likes of City and Liverpool You don’t have to beat everyone by 4 and 5 goals You just need to win the game comfortably
I'm sure Arteta is trying to figure out how to improve buildup through the middle with formation/role/personnel tweaks. Been seeing some people suggest moving Ødegaard to LCM might help. Hopefully Arteta figures it out soon
I think last seasons performance wasn't sustainable. We gassed out during the end of the season. Arteta is starting slowly, and I expect us to be more dynamic during the end of the season
Good analysis. Wish you'd do a deeper metric on the defensive side. As much as Arsenal spent more time 'winning' last year, they would concede some very stupid goals in those periods, leading to too many squeaky bum periods. Now, they almost play with a confidence that they would score/win a game anyway, as long as they keep a clean sheet. Whereas last year, it was all chaos. If they're so confident that they'd score against you anyway, I think they're better off becoming 'harder to beat' like you allude to here. They're also using a lot more players than last season, both for enforced and unenforced reasons. And it bodes well that they still defend at an elite level regardless of who plays, and they still get the goals they need to win whether it be Nketiah, Jesus, Havertz or Vieira playing. Harder to beat is going to save Arsenal this year, I believe.
Cracking video; absolutely love how much Jon has come into his own as both a presenter and a podcast participator compared to his (very understandable) shakiness in his early days at Tifo. Also, he is shockingly good at pronouncing Martin Ødegaard's last name. I was going to add "for an Englishman", but honestly, the way Jon says it is pretty much just how it's pronounced in Norwegian.
From a Tottenham fan: Arsenal fans shouldn't worry as they are, in my mind second only to Man City and they'll only improve. Last season they ran out of steam towards the end, but think how far they came from the season before, and this season, still evolving and more experienced, they will be there come May I'm sure, and I wouldn't rule out a good run in the champions league. Just a thought.
Damn best Tottenham fan ive ever heard. Gna be real w you i geniunly think you guys will get top 4 if you dont face an injury crisis with son or madders
@@hazzamatazza I reckon Tottenham are about the place Liverpool were when Klopp took over. I'm not getting too excited about being top of the league. I think fortune has been on our side, and you're right, if Son or Maddison get injured then we will struggle. As for Arsenal: I don't really do the rivalry stuff. Too long in the tooth for that, being now in my sixties. I know most Spurs fans will probably want me executed, but that invincible side was the best team I can remember. I saw them take Spurs to the cleaners at Arsenal. Damn depressing day that was and a lesson in being humiliated.
yea tons and tons of pens. a lot of favourable decisions from refs etc. their open play xg is literally mid table. they'll regress to their underlying stats as the season goes on
I think that's why Timber injury has hampered Arsenal's progression so much. He would have been perfect in the double pivot with Rice (able to receive in tight spaces and pass).
Never thought I’d say it but they miss xhaka. Havertz is also a complete waste of space. My favourite players for them so far this season has been Saka and Trossard.
A perfect explanation as to why Arsenal is what they are this season. I suspect Arteta is still experimenting with his new set of players, considering their involvement in multiple competitions. Incessant injuries is also an hindrance to the fluidity of last season. However, just like Guardiola and ManCity, being calm and resolute in the first half of the season is key. You'll unleash the power at the tail end of the season.
A shoutout to the entire Tifo team for continually putting together great data & visuals. And to folks like Jon & JJ for explaining things so well. Top stuff.
The “this player goes here then the other goes there” analysis isn’t my favorite, but this was a really really good analysis, maybe one of the best on this channel. Keep it up great stufff
Great explainer about the differences between the seasons and the style of play based on the players.. I hope arteta has some solutions for january though, Because it doesn't feel like the team is full and ready. The loss against west ham just proves the points made in this video even more 😩
I don't think the differences in xG can be explained only by changes arsenal have made, Arsenal were a surprise package last year so teams are likely to have set up differently against them this time around, if they assume they are playing against someone better... this would also lead to a drop in xG and xGa one would think
There is another major factor contributing to why Arsenal are not as good going forward this year. Havertz may be good at a lot of things - out of possession, finding space, receiving the ball and controlling it at his feet, but when it come to moving the ball on, it seems to me that he can only consistently complete a pass if his team-mate is standing still at the time. I have lost count of the number of times I have seen him attempt a pass to a team-mate who was on the move, and they have had to stop and go back to get the ball, slowing down the attack and giving the opposition time to cover the gap. He has the same problem when taking a shot on goal. When he sees an unprotected area of net, he seems to aim for the middle of that area, oblivious to the possibility that the goalie might get there before the ball, while the rest of the front line aim for whichever side of that area the goalie is least likely to be able to cover in time.
Love the video, and the stats are great. How do y'all factor statistical significance when you shell out comparative stats like the "shot-ending" stat at 16:13 for example?
Hello Jon, Zero mention of Raya's build up play compared to Ramsdale last year. I get the numbers may still be very small sample size, but it seems to me that if you're talking about how new Arsenal pieces are or aren't fitting, especially in build-up it's significant. For instance, Raya's time spent on the ball numbers within the league (I suspect Onana leads time in possession keeper stats), views on how high quality ball-playing defenders (Saliba mostly) alongside could change how Raya reads and reacts to opposition pressing triggers, in comparison to Ramsdale, would've been informative. Or if you want to run over old ground and publicise a previous video, how both have been coached to put their foot on the ball centrally letting attacking pressure come onto them, and in relation to this, if this intentionally drawing in the high press might counterintuitively allow opposition teams time to set up more effectively defensively against Arsenal, take certain players out of build up, and make Arsenal therefore easier to gameplan against. Raya as a sweeper is also operating much higher than Ramsdale previously, which can open up many new-to-Arsenal passing angles as well as condense the window of space and timing for short midfield balls to be played past the first line of press. =Rather than just "getting it launched", the evolution of keepers' controlling pressure as well as processing of in-field dangers. The key stat I probably would've enjoyed hearing about, that might have anchored the video could've been the long ball pass % numbers. Comparing Raya from Arsenal to Brentford, with and without a target man such as Toney to launch it to, rather than a relatively average in the air Arsenal. Or even a simple pass map. I suspect so far turnover% and balls to 50/50's are higher than expected. You did briefly show the direction of build up stats, which was helpful. Especially noting less central/middle build up. The real question Is, is Arteta actually instructing play wide and safely prioritising retaining possession, or just passively taking what oppositions are giving them? We did then of course get to rest defence...Kind of got there anyway. Glad you did mention Arsenal's greatly improved out of possession work, another thing that many miss in the way Arteta sets up. Almost got into how some of Havertz's time in the left 8 impacts the slowing down of build up play, but the part that many pundits/analysts are missing (Other than Chelsea tactically and mentally jumbling players) is Havertz's progressive carry numbers both at Chelsea and now at Arsenal have continued to go through the floor, to the point where now in possession Havertz is basically operating as an immobile back-to-goal midfielder. Which is either misguided adaptation to the role, passiveness, physical limitations or all three. Seems to be speculative talk that Havertz has also grown taller and therefore changed his central of gravity/balance, but I don't know how to react to that. I'm not a physiotherapist. Being able to dribble forward from one side of the pitch surely would be a plus. Where Havertz's work rate, running and defensive numbers on the other hand are actually okay/quite good. Other than that, not sure why you're wearing that jumper talking about Arsenal Jon. But that's probably irrelevant. It's hard to send these kind of messages without sounding mildly autistic, especially while expressing sartorial confusion. Thanks for reading if you got all the way through.
I think the attack is much more slower and more through the wings. Also the hint of fluid wengerball that was there last season seems to be gone, through balls are not as much and there's a lot of defensive possession. On the positive not, Arsenal isn't conceding many goals this season, as the play is a lot more defensive than before.
Cant believe im saying this but losing xhaka in the summer might have hindered our midfield this season, weve got quality in midfield but need time to adapt
Back to following football since being a kid. The last Arsenal I remember was Thierry Henry Arsenal. As my ‘first’ season watching, I’m really looking forward to how they progress and fall in love with them again.
I love the channel, love the analysis, love all the Tifo boys....and I HATE how Jon pronounces Odegaard as Odegooooooore haha. Lots of love, though. Thank for the great analysis.
Not what this video is about but as a Man Utd fan it hurts to see at 13:10 how we are literally the opposite of where we were last season in terms of game state
Nice video as always, i think the boys need rythm and time and the xG will go up again. But the most important question, where do you get this sweatshirt ?
In the first 10 EPL games of last season, only 16 players manage to start at least one game. This season, there was already been 21 players who have started at least one game. Squad rotation and injuries have reduced the peak attacking output but I think their offensive numbers will improve as the team gets used to various combinations of players.
Declan Rice is adjusting to the team. He’s doing an incredible job right now but come the end of the season he’ll be fully adjusted and that’s when I think Arsenal are going to really shine
Ramsdale and Xhaka out, Zinchenko not playing the final 25-30 of games, Gabriel not playing every game. Rice, Raya, Havertz and Timber in. Changing the emotional profile of the team. Less rollercoaster, less fun, but more stable in pressure moments
What should Arsenal do to attack more quickly and effectively? Starting Tomiyasu at LB is the solution, I believe. Rice, a great midfield player Arsenal have got this season, has amazing ability. However, he often drops back too much in the buildups. Even when CBs are comfortable with the possession he comes to help, leading to the lack of midfield options. Because of that Odegaard has to drop back too to receive the ball, decreasing the chances of more efficient passes. To make full use of Rice’s ability, an inverted LB’s role is the key. If Rice is dropping down, the other pivot has to stay in the midfield, receive a pass between the lines, and move the ball around. And for that job, Tomi is better than Zinny. His positioning is just too good. That’s why we got way more attacking chances against Chelsea in the last half, after Tomi got subbed on for Zinny.
I really enjoy the narrative you guys create with these videos. Lots of information in a short space of time in a really engaging way, keep up the great work!
I understand game state but you have failed to analyse the opposition tactic against arsenal this season compared to last season. I.e. low blocks v high press.
I had to pause the video to complement this gentleman for his expert fusion of the text of the analysis with his tactile expression of the video board, which was seemless and informative, while being completely engaging and entertaining. Bravo. Go Gunners!
Arteta is still a baby when it comes to being a manager and hes already shining, im happy for him to experiment, hes learning on the job and still doing phenomenal, SUPER MIKEL ARTETA Also all you other arsenal fans seem to forget how poor we was towards the end of Wenger and throughout Emery, we're actually a unit now, the teams young and im loving it
This season we are struggling because we are creating fewer chances while opposing teams are covering us much more effectively by using a front two to prevent some of our passing options
Crazy level of analysis here! Shoutout to whoever is responsible for these creative data visualisations, they need a raise. You don't even get this level of analysis for Sky Sports or BBC - keep it up Tifo!
It’s nice to be hard to beat, obviously, but goals in football sometimes come out of thin air (eg Mudryk’s miss-hit cross in the Chelsea game, Ben White’s own goal against West Ham). Because of that, I think it’s more important to be able to score than be scored against. Also the PL is so strong that whenever any time has a lead (or wants to defend a draw) and decides to sit back in a low block, it’s extremely difficult to break that down. So I think game state is extremely important, as you mention, and Arsenal need to focus on scoring quickly and first more often.
Feels like Arteta has a similar trait to his former mentor - overthinking. He didn't have to go for Havertz for example but feels like he wanted to take a gamble. Things like that.
Outstanding analysis! Great work guys! Imo the slow buildup has lead us to be less fluid in our game and players are forced to play a game that they arent exactly used to or what naturally comes to them. Its watchful but God do we need a clinical finisher up front.
I would have love to see a comparison between the last 10 games of last season to the 10 games this season. I wanted to know if we were solving the issues we had during the run in
Yes, so much worse! Despite the results.. we're not playing well AT ALL! No creativity in midfield. Play is way too slow.. Arteta making stupid decisions with the starting 11.. then again, that's always been the case with him
To be honest ,teams just don't line up normally against Arsenal . Most teams play very compact against Arsenal usually in a low block and flood the midfield .This has made it very difficult for arsenal to play through the middle .Teams also tend to double up on Arsenal's wingers more than they do against other teams . If Teams play a free flowing game against arsenal , they get battered .On the other hand, Havertz ,Odegaard and Saka have not been good.
Good stuff John - not sure if you are also taking into account the way other teams are now playing against Arsenal. The old way from last season started to become less effective, Saka is being marked out of the game by 2 defenders, low blocks and counter attacks etc etc. Maybe compare Arsenal's stats to Man City? Spurs have limited time to expolit their new approach until the excellent coaches in the Prem sess them out
I'm not worried as an arsenal fan. Arsenal were a rubbish 8th team n Arteta has worked hard over 2 seasons to improve the league performance finishing comfortably 5th n then 2nd. The next phase is getting the squad to comfortably play twice a week n be competitive over 4 competitions. This again might take 2 seasons to achieve. This might be too long for some people but Arteta is looking at the future for the club to be successful over a long period of time n not a one season wonder n I'm happy to be patient
For all the talk about Arsenal's build up play and attack figures you never mentioned once why these have changed. Unlike last season teams now expect Arsenal to attack and be deadly with the ball so they sit in a low block packing players behind the ball squeezing all that space Arsenal had last season, which is what has lead to Arsenal's attacks having to go through the wider channels more and more. You would do far better looking into the stats of all the teams Arsenal have played and how their defending has effected Arsenal's attack
Feel like it's a bit of a 'do not concede first' mentality with shoring up the defence more as to not allow the opposition the chance to get an early goal and then sit 11 behind the ball and then trust that our attack is good enough to get that first goal which should open up the game a bit.
Before you make noise. you have to consider we are playing three cups at the moment. Premier League, Champions league and Carabao cup all at the same time. three games a week. makes a lot of sense.
As said they need a center forward option for increasing goals (your last graph). But better defence (at least small game sample size this season so far...).
But don’t forget to mention that Arsenal have beaten Manchester United,City and drawn against Tottenham and Chelsea and they’re playing in the Champions League as well😊😊😊
@@GermanChickenwing We had never beaten City for a long time but we’ve managed to break the hoodle and beat them and we’re still unbeaten after 10 games but some fans aren’t still appreciating what the team is doing?This is laughable😂😂
@@Bandresswintermarcusgunter Dude thats not my point..You won against Chelsea and Spurs home and away but this season you have drew both home and away is my point..You are not better than last season
Nothing to do with teams underestimating Arsenal in the first half of last season, Arteta is also trying 'hybrid' players to supplement the lack of genuine world class players they do not have. Be transformed though if they get a world class number 9.
They were a one season wonder, back to normal for them…people have such short-term memories, they’ve been average for last 4 years ignoring last year…recall how long they haven’t been in the CL
Just for context. After 10 game’s last season, we had scored 24 and conceded 10. This season it’s 24 and 8. Ultimately it doesn’t matter what you’re expected to do, only what you actually do.
Definitely Arsenal are not as fun as they were last season. But then again, teams just don't line up against Arsenal so openly.
The opposition have stopped doing that after the first month of last season. IMO, there have been more injuries at the start of this season compared to the last one. The front three of Martinelli, Jesus and Saka have played 1 or 2 full matches.
They lost xhaka and partly keeps getting injured ødegaard isn't doing as good since there is no xhaka which he will take turns with pressing
But then again, without VAR, ur team would have had only 18 points so far.
Or probably 16 or less than 16 😁
How does city handle it season after season
It really feels like smthing Arteta is deliberately doing as well - being calmer on the ball and not being as fast paced. Perhaps its still experimental or he is pacing them for the long season instead.
are you pacing yourself for a long season of commenting by not typing the o and the e?
😅😂
definitely can be seen during the man city match where last season, we just threw ourselves at the keeper in order to always be "pressing high" leaving huge gaps that city exploited through long balls. This season i even remember this image of odegard telling his teammates to stay put when ederson had the ball instead of just running at thim like dogs
@ryuuzSd dogs represent arsenals pressing last season imo this season it's hyenas
Nah, feels like they didnt actually realised the profile of Rice and Havertz
Unlike last season, were we saw a very fast arsenal, that tried to put the game to an end in the first 20 mins, which in the end shows us how outbreath they became and then lost the title. But This season, i think arteta is trying for the long run, and told his players to conserve energy when playing below table teams. And there is also some rotations which arteta didnt make last season. I think if they play like this in the first half of the seoson and still be top, then they can outburst their conserved energy in the last games of the seoson and can win the league.
You know ball
Yes, Arteta is improving as a manager as well. City do the same, stroll though the league until the second half when they put their foot on the pedal. Let's see if Arsenal can keep up this time.
Great observation, I see the same thing as you. I do think that Arsenal should try to find an 8 type midfielder in the winter transfer window to help their buildup through the middle because I don't think they're strong or dynamic enough in the build-up play to come out on top of City.
@@edux23don't you think we need a good offense? Cus apart from the Chelsea game our defence is good and I think rice will be sufficient
COYG we can do it this year
This Arsenal seem consistent, sustainable, more solid than last year. Domesticaly unbeaten. I like the progression.
Agree now we need more dynamism in our midfield and our attackers to improve
But beaten in all competitions.. Don't twist the facts
@@Kzeditzzz387 He's teaching them the Pep attack - slow and controlled. Last year they would go faster and get beat on the counter. The attack is going to improve as they get used to this.
@@paulinejackson5861you don’t really know what you’re talking about do you Pauline…
@@Asshat237 I full on agree odegaard is going through a challenge also martinelli and saka. It would be easy for them now they have to learn and figure out how to play well when defences sit back
Last season everyone said we started to fast and we eventually burnt out. This year we are playing with more control of games, against more low blocks, and with the aim of going until the end.
This shows that the gunners are evolving as a team. Similar to klopp’s first 3 seasons at Liverpool, where they pressed like mad dogs and outscored their opponents. The title winning season showed their ability to close out and win games by a single goal. Arsenal is moving towards that trajectory as well, overall they’ve looked a lot more solid especially with rice on the midfield
totally agree with you. This season has been about building from the back being solid and giving the opposition little to no chances and counter attacks to work with. this team did not just forget how to attack. We will get there and i fear for the other teams. We would not concede silly goals like lasts season for sure. Whatever the opposing team they would have to work harder to create chances against this Arsenal team. Ask city how they felt at the Emirates. We know we can score and create chances at any given period of the game. COYGs
lmfao No. They are going to revert to mean soon, those lucky wins they didn't deserve will start turning into draws and losses.
@@perfectman3077you referring to spurs ?
@@koutanot Arselul
@koutanot I haven't seen a team fail up so spectacularly like spurs. The amount of lucky third bounces falling to them after horrid passes getting blocked by the opposition is amazing. Only people on that team playing with anything resembling good form is maddison and the GK. Not to mention the lucky calls they've gotten this season...
Bar 3/4 teams in Europe everyone now parks the bus. There are also tactical tweets from Arteta to make Arsenal more flexible and less predictable. The biggest change or improvement I have noticed with the team this year is that they are less vulnerable on the transition and look more solid. Declan Rice has a lot to do with that. Outstanding singing.
Arteta is building a multi-functional side which can attack in different ways and also be defensively sound against changing opposition. It's remarkable to me when people don't rate him as a manager.
As a United fan these videos are fascinating, if not wholly depressing!
Partey's absence hurts build-up through the middle, if he were healthy more often the direct attacks through the middle would definitely be better. He seems to be our only midfielder that can receive the ball with his back to goal and turn a pressing opposing player. If Arsenal get an 8 that is technical enough to play in the half spaces and can play passes through the lines like Xhaka used to for us I think Arsenal can win the league. Right now I think what's getting the gunners over the line is the different styles of play they can implement and the quality they have throughout the squad.
That will be painful when his court case happens
That’s why you don’t rely so heavily on an injury prone player with legal issues. You spent 100mil on Rice and he can’t do those fundamentals?
Simple facts. Too many of our current mids are either defensive unambitious passers or full on No.10s who struggle as 8s
Arteta signed Havertz as an 8 and it’s blowing up in his face. Now he has to get a player who actually plays that position.
@@eriklakeland3857 Been one of our best players this season, and we're still unbeaten in the Prem and looking good elsewhere.
Arsenal have on paper more difficult first 10 games compared to last season. Also last season Arsenal was a bit of unknown to the rest of the league, nobody expected us to compete for the title and I think it worked in our favor. This season teams know who we are and what we can do, so they play even more defensively than before.
@TP-pq9xx I think this highlights more the fact that most other teams underestimated Arsenal in the first part of last season compared to this season. There are also more competetive teams this season than last season who are taking points away from Arsenal - Arsenal only had to worry about Man City being a consistently good team, but now Liverpool, Man City and Tottenham are in serious title contender form, at least in this early part of the season. For example last season you would expect Arsenal to beat Tottenham, whereas this season they have already drawed because Tottenham have had a serious uptick in form.
@TP-pq9xx Yeah but you must remember we hadn't played City in our first 19 games. We started looking a bit unsure of ourselves after we lost 1-3 at home. Those first 19 games though were outrageous.
That’s interesting cause per opta, they had the 3rd easiest 5 opening fixtures of anyone in the league.
@@kd5973sure, but in the first 10 games we’ve now played:
- spurs
- city
-chelsea
- united
We’ve not had an “easy” start to the season.
@@kd5973 Arsenal will naturally be high on that list simply by being a quality team and is expected to be better than most teams. Last year we played United (A), Spurs (H) and Liverpool (H), winning one game comfortably, one barely and losing the game against United. This year we played 4 derby games (including City), won two, and drew two. And draws came from teams who are objectively in a better shape and form than they were last season. Don't forget that Arsenal also had Everton (A) who they didn't beat away from home in a couple of years.
All I want to say is that it's much easier to create form and for a team to look good when you play easier games consecutively. If you are playing difficult fixtures every 2-3 games where a small difference determines the outcome, of course, it's going to be harder for everything to gel and feel smooth and direct.
Arsenal didn't play particularly well against Sheffield either and they smacked them 5-0, that just shows how good they are, and that's also a warning to other teams, that if they don't take us seriously and play defensive football they will get punished hard.
I fully expect us to pick up the form and look much better when we get run of easier fixtures. So the fact that we played 4 darbies and 2 very difficult games away in the first 10 game weeks, without losing and being just 2 points away from the top is a great start to the season
I think Arsenal peaked way too quickly last season and ran out of steam. If we want to win something we have to peak at the right part of the season
So last 15 or ten games
Peaked?? Or lost Saliba and Tomi at the wrong time… maybe both
@@merciemodemerciemode3130 Yh that definitely didn’t help either.
Peak when you are 10 points behind right?
@@merciemodemerciemode3130 we definitely peaked the first half of the season though. but yes, both impacted us, mainly Saliba
In 10 games in the league so far we have 11 different goal scorers and 8 different assist providers. Saliba and Gabriel had 5 goals between them last season, havent scored yet, zinchencko had 1 goal and a few assists, none yet. By the end of the season we will probably have the whole team, including 5-6 reserve players all scoring or assisting, same like last season actually. Yes, we are not as flashy on the eye, but I couldnt care less if this means we are more solid defensively and avoid collapsing towards the end.
Watch the video first. Flashiness wasn’t even mentioned tf
@@eleonarcrimson858 the title of the video is based on Arsenal not being as fluid, direct, flashy, whatever you want to call it, compared to last season. If we were playing the same football as last season, this video will not exist. I hope this clears it for you.
@@paveldimitrov998 ??? Bro read the title and commented lmfao
@@eleonarcrimson858 you are not the sharpest tool in the shed, I get it now
@@paveldimitrov998 the video is about how arsenal are having difficulty in progressing the ball through the center of the field because of personnel changes and being forced to go wide and teams having enough time to get back to their defensive shape because of that. And if you do not build your attack through the center you do not get high xg chances hence they are not effective in attack. Flashiness is just a word you just spawned because you actually didnt watch the video or you didn’t understand it(i gave you the benefit of the doubt and assumed you didn’t watch it fully, i might take back that assumption though you might just be stupid)
This clearly suggests to me that there is a deliberate decision related to this. Perhaps it is pacing - all of this change, yet we’re still unbeaten and 2nd in the league. If we have the ability to turn on the style from last year later on in the league this time rather than outpacing ourselves too early, then that surely is a good thing.
Yeah that's what I think too. Come the latter stages of the season we can go up another gear and fatigue won't be an issue. My only concern is if we struggle to switch on offensively
When your goalscoring relies on fluidity, tough games and situations you need to score goals urgently, forces you to take insane risks.
Seems Arteta sacrifice the suddenness of Arsenal's attacking prowess to have more control over games.
Arsenal won't win the league. That's a fact
@@Jamesugg No one asked you pal. Something happening in future, can't be called a "fact"
@@Jamesuggsource: zidanes hair
Arsenal are less predictable to play against this season, and have more versatility across the pitch compared to last season. Simple as that.
If we didn't buy havertz ,(he's good but not worth the price in my opinion) we could buy oshimen
Totally agree
Theres literally a graph showing that Arsenal tend to attack through the right side where Saka/White/Odegaard triangle is, because Arsenal are struggling to break opponents press with Rice. Teams like Lens, Chelsea and Fulham used this and managed to neutralize Arsenal's attacking potential. We need to be more creative in the build-up rather than using one flank constantly.
what are you talking about, they are far more predictable to play against, thats why they are scoring less
@@FunGomerthat's when trossard comes on bangs winners when clubs focus on saka 😂😂remember Chelsea and Everton matches
That was a good analysis. I know you were comparing Arsenal's performance this season to the previous ones but it would have been good to look at the goals and chances created this season compared to other teams. Arsenal has one of the highest goal-scoring records for the season among the other clubs. That offers another perspective as to how other teams are playing this season.
Really good video. I think Mikel took from last season that we didn't get over the line due to defensive frailty (43 goals conceded compared to City conceding 33). Conceding 11 goals in 4 games during the run in (Liverpool, WH, Soton, City) was what did us in. This is why we signed Raya, Rice and Havertz and now playing a slower tempo. Last season we gave away too many goals at Anfield (2), Eithad (4) and OT (3).
I think Arteta has focussed more on making us a wall rather than a deadly spear. We struggled more OOP last year and I feel our games this year have way more control. I also think your point about cup tournaments and how our defensive transition suits these more. I think this is something that has been heavily emphasised by Arteta in our league games, the sharing penalty takers so that we have multiple people that have the experience to step up to the spot. as well as like you said the defensive control we have to force teams to commit more numbers in attacking. I think we are still a little off where we want to be but I genuinely do believe we are edging closer to a Man City like control on games.
u didn't talked about controls & organisations at all! Arsenal this season is not about how to score the goal, it's about *WHEN* to score the goal! scoring in later games means the oppositions have fewer chances to actually comeback (aka vs liverpool last season) against them. all they have to do is controlling the game in the first half (trying not to get conceded) and then unleashes the attacking phases later in the game. not to mention their organisations, which is the understanding of Mikel's tactics, are much more discipline this season.
Well said, that's the Ancelotti way!! So excited for Arsenal this season & their much more mature way of playing !!
I understand that there was A LOT of information to get through.. but damn dude.. you were SPEEDING through this video.. Talking so fast and ZERO space to breathe, ingest and digest the info. I'm gonna have to watch this again. But thank you for the work, really appreciate that it's here!!
White wasn't the one that was dropped. It was Gabriel.
I think a lot of attacking expectations were prepared for timber. So we aren't freely doing what we prepared in summer, but as a unit we play we with a lot of control and intensity over the oponent.
I don't find the matches boring at all, I find them played with an intense purpose.
You bring up Havertz when talking about Arsenal being better out of possession but then don't provide any insight into what he's actually contributing to that?
Also said been white was dropped but it was Gabriel who was dropped.
at the end of the day we had the same structure but different player profile, the fact that somehow when our strongest first 11 never ever played together we still only lost one game on all competition just shows that reducing the pace/tempo and winning the field tilt battle still produce positive result.
The only thing missing is the mention of how deep opposition teams are sitting against Arsenal, we’ve faced the lowest defensive line in all of Europe if I’m not mistaken! Excellent video though 👏🏼
2 videos on Aston Villa since Emery's appointment and both have a hint of skepticism, at what point does Emery's success become the team are just good and will you make a video?
Let's not forget they are in Champions League this season, so more games yet to come.
We had Europa league last season so it’s not that different if that’s what you’re implying
@@TheDandanstheman Europa league you can rest a lo more players
perfectly demonstrates why i think havertz is a good signing for arsenal as a defensive forward. this is a year of consolidating and Arteta wants to make sure we stay in the top 4 by building a strong defensive platform for this squad. we were way ahead of schedule last year and Arteta knows that and doesnt want us dropping off, like so many teams do after short term success. Next season players like havertz will start to express themselves a bit more, with Arteta just wanting him doing the basics and learning the system. What Pep does with all his signings. They have a down season for their first, and then kick on (e.g. Grealish, Cancelo, Rodri). Being a top team requires stability. Then the brilliance on top of that makes you a great team
He is the worst signing I have ever seen
@@adventurerwannabe what are you smoking he has literally just been fine. The worst signing you’ve ever seen? Sancho? Hazard? Mustafi? You’re just following along with what you’ve read on twitter. He has been completely fine in every way. Hasn’t made any mistakes. Hasn’t cost us anything. He just hasn’t been good enough. He’s young enough and will bed in. People called Grealish a flop in his first year at City. Last season he was one of the best players in the league
@@Heart_Burn_Ouch my mistake. Worst signing i have ever seen at Arsenal. Mustafi didnt cost half his price and was actually good for like his first 20 games. 65m for "he hasnt done anything wrong" is the worst value for money i have ever seen at our club. Could have just played El neny for that kind of performances.
@@adventurerwannabe again tho I just think it’s mad to say he’s been the worst signing ever. We’re 10 games in to the season. 35 million at the time mustafi was bought was at a time where the most expensive player in the world cost 80million. Players sometimes take time to settle and he has barely been coached properly since he broke through in Germany. He’s playing a good amount and we’re winning games. It’s wrong to write him off after less than 1000 minutes of football in an Arsenal shirt and also isn’t exactly getting behind the club. The scouts and manager saw something in him for our system. They haven’t got many of these wrong. Not by any means saying he is a sure thing or has lived up to my expectations, but if he beds in and has a great season next year and we end up winning the league, the whole statement is pointless isn’t it? He’s clearly a player with a lot of talent. He’s not some donkey. Give the kid a chance
@@Heart_Burn_Ouch sure he can still come good. But So far there has been zero evidence to suggest he will...He has been shocking for that price...so far i have not seen anything to suggest he is talented either...i thought he was supposed to be technically Gifted. So far i havent seen him execute a single difficult Pass or ball control or dribble. Only ok thing has been he runs around a lot...but thats nothing el neny couldnt give us
As ever, well articulated but massively wide of the mark. Missing out several contexts of what is actually going this year.
Arteta has moved Arsenal to being a more cautious/risk adverse team this season to avoid chaotic games which happened a lot last season.
Arsenal are trying to avoid turnovers in vulnerable positions (central & half space areas). Losing/turnover the ball in the wider pockets and in deep attacking areas. This means it reduces the chance of conceding big chances a lot. You can see this in the goals conceded and xGa stats.
The field tilt and ball possesion stats show how Arsenal are dominant and patient this season and therefore are much harder to beat. The theory being you have the difference makers in Saka, Martinelli and Jesus who are likely to score during a game.
The issues have been selecting a balanced side and this has affected Odegaard more than anyone.
His skills are better suited to a deeper 2nd phase midfielder. However, hes been tasked with playing higher almost as a SS/10. He is better coming onto the play and arriving late into the box on the end of chances (how he scored the majority of his goals last season). Instead he has looked out of sorts as he is too high positioned to start with.
If he played the deeper position in the LCM role then he would look a lot more comfortable and be able to have a good partnership in Martinelli who will be the willing runner to get on the end of his passes (think Brighton away last season).
Kai Havertz, ESR & Vieira would be a lot more suited to the higher positioned RCM as they are all more natural 10s and have that instinct in and around the box.
Once Arteta can figure this out, Odegaard and Arsenal will go up another gear.
Just a few things I’d like to add. 1) Quality of opposition this season so far is arguably higher than the same number of games last season. 2) the slow progression tires opponents late in the game hence the late goals scored. 3) slower progression and a better rest defense means the physical toll put on the players is lower than a fast paced, open game
They started last season fast but it costed them in the end
They have to play a more a mature season to fight for it like the likes of City and Liverpool
You don’t have to beat everyone by 4 and 5 goals
You just need to win the game comfortably
I'm sure Arteta is trying to figure out how to improve buildup through the middle with formation/role/personnel tweaks. Been seeing some people suggest moving Ødegaard to LCM might help. Hopefully Arteta figures it out soon
I think last seasons performance wasn't sustainable. We gassed out during the end of the season. Arteta is starting slowly, and I expect us to be more dynamic during the end of the season
Good analysis. Wish you'd do a deeper metric on the defensive side. As much as Arsenal spent more time 'winning' last year, they would concede some very stupid goals in those periods, leading to too many squeaky bum periods. Now, they almost play with a confidence that they would score/win a game anyway, as long as they keep a clean sheet. Whereas last year, it was all chaos.
If they're so confident that they'd score against you anyway, I think they're better off becoming 'harder to beat' like you allude to here. They're also using a lot more players than last season, both for enforced and unenforced reasons. And it bodes well that they still defend at an elite level regardless of who plays, and they still get the goals they need to win whether it be Nketiah, Jesus, Havertz or Vieira playing. Harder to beat is going to save Arsenal this year, I believe.
Cracking video; absolutely love how much Jon has come into his own as both a presenter and a podcast participator compared to his (very understandable) shakiness in his early days at Tifo. Also, he is shockingly good at pronouncing Martin Ødegaard's last name. I was going to add "for an Englishman", but honestly, the way Jon says it is pretty much just how it's pronounced in Norwegian.
From a Tottenham fan: Arsenal fans shouldn't worry as they are, in my mind second only to Man City and they'll only improve. Last season they ran out of steam towards the end, but think how far they came from the season before, and this season, still evolving and more experienced, they will be there come May I'm sure, and I wouldn't rule out a good run in the champions league. Just a thought.
Damn best Tottenham fan ive ever heard. Gna be real w you i geniunly think you guys will get top 4 if you dont face an injury crisis with son or madders
@@hazzamatazza I reckon Tottenham are about the place Liverpool were when Klopp took over. I'm not getting too excited about being top of the league. I think fortune has been on our side, and you're right, if Son or Maddison get injured then we will struggle. As for Arsenal: I don't really do the rivalry stuff. Too long in the tooth for that, being now in my sixties. I know most Spurs fans will probably want me executed, but that invincible side was the best team I can remember. I saw them take Spurs to the cleaners at Arsenal. Damn depressing day that was and a lesson in being humiliated.
But somehow they have still managed 24goals in 10 matches.
Including 6 penalties which is double anyone else..
@@pantrywarriors9577 Not arteta's fault that his players are being fouled in the box.
@@pantrywarriors9577 you'll expect that if you saw how penetrating and dangerous our players are when bringing the ball into the box
yea tons and tons of pens. a lot of favourable decisions from refs etc. their open play xg is literally mid table. they'll regress to their underlying stats as the season goes on
@@sandycultofthesun Such as the Kovacic staying on the Man City game decision - Arsenal are definitely getting helped by refs!
I think that's why Timber injury has hampered Arsenal's progression so much. He would have been perfect in the double pivot with Rice (able to receive in tight spaces and pass).
Love that Japan jumper!
Well, this was timed well
Never thought I’d say it but they miss xhaka. Havertz is also a complete waste of space. My favourite players for them so far this season has been Saka and Trossard.
Great content! The data analysis was on point mate. Well done 👍🏾 and keep it coming 🙏🏾
A perfect explanation as to why Arsenal is what they are this season. I suspect Arteta is still experimenting with his new set of players, considering their involvement in multiple competitions. Incessant injuries is also an hindrance to the fluidity of last season.
However, just like Guardiola and ManCity, being calm and resolute in the first half of the season is key. You'll unleash the power at the tail end of the season.
A shoutout to the entire Tifo team for continually putting together great data & visuals. And to folks like Jon & JJ for explaining things so well. Top stuff.
The “this player goes here then the other goes there” analysis isn’t my favorite, but this was a really really good analysis, maybe one of the best on this channel. Keep it up great stufff
Great explainer about the differences between the seasons and the style of play based on the players.. I hope arteta has some solutions for january though, Because it doesn't feel like the team is full and ready. The loss against west ham just proves the points made in this video even more 😩
I don't think the differences in xG can be explained only by changes arsenal have made, Arsenal were a surprise package last year so teams are likely to have set up differently against them this time around, if they assume they are playing against someone better... this would also lead to a drop in xG and xGa one would think
Odegaard's role has also changed due to transitioning from Xhaka to Havertz
Of course, since its transitioning from a decent midfield Partner to a ghost
There is another major factor contributing to why Arsenal are not as good going forward this year.
Havertz may be good at a lot of things - out of possession, finding space, receiving the ball and controlling it at his feet, but when it come to moving the ball on, it seems to me that he can only consistently complete a pass if his team-mate is standing still at the time.
I have lost count of the number of times I have seen him attempt a pass to a team-mate who was on the move, and they have had to stop and go back to get the ball, slowing down the attack and giving the opposition time to cover the gap.
He has the same problem when taking a shot on goal. When he sees an unprotected area of net, he seems to aim for the middle of that area, oblivious to the possibility that the goalie might get there before the ball, while the rest of the front line aim for whichever side of that area the goalie is least likely to be able to cover in time.
Love the video, and the stats are great. How do y'all factor statistical significance when you shell out comparative stats like the "shot-ending" stat at 16:13 for example?
I’m just confused as to why Ramsdale has taken the backseat.
Hello Jon,
Zero mention of Raya's build up play compared to Ramsdale last year. I get the numbers may still be very small sample size, but it seems to me that if you're talking about how new Arsenal pieces are or aren't fitting, especially in build-up it's significant.
For instance, Raya's time spent on the ball numbers within the league (I suspect Onana leads time in possession keeper stats), views on how high quality ball-playing defenders (Saliba mostly) alongside could change how Raya reads and reacts to opposition pressing triggers, in comparison to Ramsdale, would've been informative. Or if you want to run over old ground and publicise a previous video, how both have been coached to put their foot on the ball centrally letting attacking pressure come onto them, and in relation to this, if this intentionally drawing in the high press might counterintuitively allow opposition teams time to set up more effectively defensively against Arsenal, take certain players out of build up, and make Arsenal therefore easier to gameplan against.
Raya as a sweeper is also operating much higher than Ramsdale previously, which can open up many new-to-Arsenal passing angles as well as condense the window of space and timing for short midfield balls to be played past the first line of press.
=Rather than just "getting it launched", the evolution of keepers' controlling pressure as well as processing of in-field dangers.
The key stat I probably would've enjoyed hearing about, that might have anchored the video could've been the long ball pass % numbers. Comparing Raya from Arsenal to Brentford, with and without a target man such as Toney to launch it to, rather than a relatively average in the air Arsenal. Or even a simple pass map. I suspect so far turnover% and balls to 50/50's are higher than expected.
You did briefly show the direction of build up stats, which was helpful. Especially noting less central/middle build up.
The real question Is, is Arteta actually instructing play wide and safely prioritising retaining possession, or just passively taking what oppositions are giving them?
We did then of course get to rest defence...Kind of got there anyway. Glad you did mention Arsenal's greatly improved out of possession work, another thing that many miss in the way Arteta sets up.
Almost got into how some of Havertz's time in the left 8 impacts the slowing down of build up play, but the part that many pundits/analysts are missing (Other than Chelsea tactically and mentally jumbling players) is Havertz's progressive carry numbers both at Chelsea and now at Arsenal have continued to go through the floor, to the point where now in possession Havertz is basically operating as an immobile back-to-goal midfielder.
Which is either misguided adaptation to the role, passiveness, physical limitations or all three.
Seems to be speculative talk that Havertz has also grown taller and therefore changed his central of gravity/balance, but I don't know how to react to that. I'm not a physiotherapist. Being able to dribble forward from one side of the pitch surely would be a plus.
Where Havertz's work rate, running and defensive numbers on the other hand are actually okay/quite good.
Other than that, not sure why you're wearing that jumper talking about Arsenal Jon. But that's probably irrelevant.
It's hard to send these kind of messages without sounding mildly autistic, especially while expressing sartorial confusion.
Thanks for reading if you got all the way through.
I think the attack is much more slower and more through the wings. Also the hint of fluid wengerball that was there last season seems to be gone, through balls are not as much and there's a lot of defensive possession. On the positive not, Arsenal isn't conceding many goals this season, as the play is a lot more defensive than before.
Cant believe im saying this but losing xhaka in the summer might have hindered our midfield this season, weve got quality in midfield but need time to adapt
Back to following football since being a kid. The last Arsenal I remember was Thierry Henry Arsenal. As my ‘first’ season watching, I’m really looking forward to how they progress and fall in love with them again.
I love the channel, love the analysis, love all the Tifo boys....and I HATE how Jon pronounces Odegaard as Odegooooooore haha.
Lots of love, though. Thank for the great analysis.
Not what this video is about but as a Man Utd fan it hurts to see at 13:10 how we are literally the opposite of where we were last season in terms of game state
Arsenal are more pragmatic this season.
brilliant analysis and great use of the data as always!
Nice video as always, i think the boys need rythm and time and the xG will go up again. But the most important question, where do you get this sweatshirt ?
In the first 10 EPL games of last season, only 16 players manage to start at least one game. This season, there was already been 21 players who have started at least one game. Squad rotation and injuries have reduced the peak attacking output but I think their offensive numbers will improve as the team gets used to various combinations of players.
Declan Rice is adjusting to the team. He’s doing an incredible job right now but come the end of the season he’ll be fully adjusted and that’s when I think Arsenal are going to really shine
Ramsdale and Xhaka out, Zinchenko not playing the final 25-30 of games, Gabriel not playing every game. Rice, Raya, Havertz and Timber in. Changing the emotional profile of the team. Less rollercoaster, less fun, but more stable in pressure moments
What should Arsenal do to attack more quickly and effectively? Starting Tomiyasu at LB is the solution, I believe.
Rice, a great midfield player Arsenal have got this season, has amazing ability. However, he often drops back too much in the buildups. Even when CBs are comfortable with the possession he comes to help, leading to the lack of midfield options. Because of that Odegaard has to drop back too to receive the ball, decreasing the chances of more efficient passes.
To make full use of Rice’s ability, an inverted LB’s role is the key. If Rice is dropping down, the other pivot has to stay in the midfield, receive a pass between the lines, and move the ball around. And for that job, Tomi is better than Zinny. His positioning is just too good. That’s why we got way more attacking chances against Chelsea in the last half, after Tomi got subbed on for Zinny.
I really enjoy the narrative you guys create with these videos. Lots of information in a short space of time in a really engaging way, keep up the great work!
Need a video on my might Villa!
SOMEBODY TELL ME WHERE TO GET THAT JUMPER
I understand game state but you have failed to analyse the opposition tactic against arsenal this season compared to last season. I.e. low blocks v high press.
I had to pause the video to complement this gentleman for his expert fusion of the text of the analysis with his tactile expression of the video board, which was seemless and informative, while being completely engaging and entertaining. Bravo.
Go Gunners!
Arteta is still a baby when it comes to being a manager and hes already shining, im happy for him to experiment, hes learning on the job and still doing phenomenal, SUPER MIKEL ARTETA
Also all you other arsenal fans seem to forget how poor we was towards the end of Wenger and throughout Emery, we're actually a unit now, the teams young and im loving it
This season we are struggling because we are creating fewer chances while opposing teams are covering us much more effectively by using a front two to prevent some of our passing options
Crazy level of analysis here! Shoutout to whoever is responsible for these creative data visualisations, they need a raise. You don't even get this level of analysis for Sky Sports or BBC - keep it up Tifo!
It’s nice to be hard to beat, obviously, but goals in football sometimes come out of thin air (eg Mudryk’s miss-hit cross in the Chelsea game, Ben White’s own goal against West Ham). Because of that, I think it’s more important to be able to score than be scored against. Also the PL is so strong that whenever any time has a lead (or wants to defend a draw) and decides to sit back in a low block, it’s extremely difficult to break that down. So I think game state is extremely important, as you mention, and Arsenal need to focus on scoring quickly and first more often.
Impressive analysis, well done! Thanks for sharing.
Feels like Arteta has a similar trait to his former mentor - overthinking. He didn't have to go for Havertz for example but feels like he wanted to take a gamble. Things like that.
Outstanding analysis! Great work guys! Imo the slow buildup has lead us to be less fluid in our game and players are forced to play a game that they arent exactly used to or what naturally comes to them. Its watchful but God do we need a clinical finisher up front.
I guess because they have to deal with champions league football this has affected their style of play? They can’t play with an much intensity
They're literally playing with MORE intensity off the ball
The current 10 game stats are identical to last seasons first 10 games.
Wins draws clean sheets goals scored and goals conceded
Excellent video and analysis on this!
Arsenal play slowly this season than last season. They sniff the game out of the opponent. It is boring football but effective
I would have love to see a comparison between the last 10 games of last season to the 10 games this season. I wanted to know if we were solving the issues we had during the run in
Yes, so much worse! Despite the results.. we're not playing well AT ALL! No creativity in midfield. Play is way too slow.. Arteta making stupid decisions with the starting 11.. then again, that's always been the case with him
To be honest ,teams just don't line up normally against Arsenal . Most teams play very compact against Arsenal usually in a low block and flood the midfield .This has made it very difficult for arsenal to play through the middle .Teams also tend to double up on Arsenal's wingers more than they do against other teams . If Teams play a free flowing game against arsenal , they get battered .On the other hand, Havertz ,Odegaard and Saka have not been good.
Excellent video!! Great detailed analysis...
Good stuff John - not sure if you are also taking into account the way other teams are now playing against Arsenal. The old way from last season started to become less effective, Saka is being marked out of the game by 2 defenders, low blocks and counter attacks etc etc. Maybe compare Arsenal's stats to Man City?
Spurs have limited time to expolit their new approach until the excellent coaches in the Prem sess them out
I'm not worried as an arsenal fan. Arsenal were a rubbish 8th team n Arteta has worked hard over 2 seasons to improve the league performance finishing comfortably 5th n then 2nd. The next phase is getting the squad to comfortably play twice a week n be competitive over 4 competitions. This again might take 2 seasons to achieve. This might be too long for some people but Arteta is looking at the future for the club to be successful over a long period of time n not a one season wonder n I'm happy to be patient
Such impressive analysis. Great job👏
For all the talk about Arsenal's build up play and attack figures you never mentioned once why these have changed. Unlike last season teams now expect Arsenal to attack and be deadly with the ball so they sit in a low block packing players behind the ball squeezing all that space Arsenal had last season, which is what has lead to Arsenal's attacks having to go through the wider channels more and more. You would do far better looking into the stats of all the teams Arsenal have played and how their defending has effected Arsenal's attack
Feel like it's a bit of a 'do not concede first' mentality with shoring up the defence more as to not allow the opposition the chance to get an early goal and then sit 11 behind the ball and then trust that our attack is good enough to get that first goal which should open up the game a bit.
Before you make noise. you have to consider we are playing three cups at the moment. Premier League, Champions league and Carabao cup all at the same time. three games a week. makes a lot of sense.
As said they need a center forward option for increasing goals (your last graph). But better defence (at least small game sample size this season so far...).
Do you guys sell those posters you have in the background? I’ve always admired them
But don’t forget to mention that Arsenal have beaten Manchester United,City and drawn against Tottenham and Chelsea and they’re playing in the Champions League as well😊😊😊
All at home apart from Chelsea.. Bad stats compare to last season
Not only We fail to beat spurs at home. We nearly lost.
@@GermanChickenwing We had never beaten City for a long time but we’ve managed to break the hoodle and beat them and we’re still unbeaten after 10 games but some fans aren’t still appreciating what the team is doing?This is laughable😂😂
@@Bandresswintermarcusgunter Dude thats not my point..You won against Chelsea and Spurs home and away but this season you have drew both home and away is my point..You are not better than last season
Prolly the best tactical breakdown Ive seen regarding Gunners in years 👏🏽👏🏽
Excellent analysis!
Nothing to do with teams underestimating Arsenal in the first half of last season, Arteta is also trying 'hybrid' players to supplement the lack of genuine world class players they do not have. Be transformed though if they get a world class number 9.
They were a one season wonder, back to normal for them…people have such short-term memories, they’ve been average for last 4 years ignoring last year…recall how long they haven’t been in the CL
Just for context. After 10 game’s last season, we had scored 24 and conceded 10. This season it’s 24 and 8. Ultimately it doesn’t matter what you’re expected to do, only what you actually do.
Definitely deliberate on Arteta’s part. As last season proved, it’s a marathon not a sprint
Where can I get that sweatshirt??
Great analysis!