The Arsenal Puzzle Part 3: Midfielders

Throughout last season, Wenger tried a number of formations: 4-4-2, 4-3-3, 4-5-1, 4-2-1-3, and 4-1-2-3. Barring the 4-4-2, all need three central midfielders.

Wenger has publicly stated his intentions to, and demonstrated in preseason, that he is going with a 4-3-3 this season. Something that Barcelona used to great effect last season. Barcelona's defense and forward line remained more or less same throughout the season, but they changed their midfield depending on the situation and opponents.

The three-man midfield usually contained two creative midfielders and a defensive midfielder. But at times it was the other way round, with one creative and two defensive midfielders. Xavi, Iniesta, Gudjonsen, and Helb formed the creative midfield squad with Toure, Keita, and Busquets forming the defensive midfield rotation.

Do Arsenal have such luxury? Lets have a look at the Gunner’s midfielders.

Wenger sure has a lot of creative talent at his disposal. Fabregas, Rosicky, Nasri, and Diaby will be the front-runners for the two creative midfield positions. To add to this we have good young talent emerging from the youth system in Merida and Ramsey, who will get a few games this season.

So Gooners need not worry, we will see a lot of good passing through the midfield this season.

The same cannot be said for the defensive midfield department, which at one time was the most stacked part of the squad with Diarra, Gilberto, and Flamini all gunning to play.

Now, Alex Song is the only effective defensive midfielder in the squad. Some might put Denilson’s name here but to my knowledge, he himself doesn’t know his status. Denilson is a player who wants to be creative but cannot create, so looks at defending but cannot defend.

I might be harsh, but for me Denilson is a bits and pieces player who, as of this moment, is not good enough to play for Arsenal. Wenger did not replace Diarra, Gilberto, or Flamini and we all saw the effects last season.

It could be another grueling year for Arsenal if Wenger does not address this burning issue. Two effective defensive midfielders are desperately needed. Song will be in Africa for two months, and at a crucial part of the season.

Wenger needs to get this piece right or there will remain a glaring hole in the Arsenal puzzle.