Strengths and Weaknesses of Manchester City Transfer Target Jack Wilshere
It seems like one of the more unlikely transfers to happen but there's been plenty of speculation this summer to suggest it's possible.
According to the Sun (via the Mirror's Hamish Mackay), Arsenal's Jack Wilshere has been linked with a move to Manchester City, with the talented England midfielder seen as fitting the bill at the Etihad if a move for Paul Pogba fails.
It seems highly unlikely given the esteem he is held in by Arsene Wenger, the Arsenal manager, but talk of the move simply won't subside.
It would be expensive and complicated, but what would City be getting? Here we look at some of Wilshere's strengths and weaknesses.
Strength: Range of Passing
1 of 8
Wilshere's passing is undoubtedly his biggest strength, particularly his ability to produce long-range balls that can switch play and start attacks from deep.
He's outrageously naturally gifted, blessed with a talent that marks him out as one of the finest young players in the Premier League. His passing is the best example of his quality.
City perhaps lack the range of passing Wilshere offers, and if he was played alongside the right players—those who can offer protection to the back four—the Blues could really benefit from his ability to pass the ball with accuracy.
Weakness: Defensive Appetite
2 of 8
He certainly lacks defensive nous, though, which means it is a risk to play him in a deep position.
His positioning can sometimes let him down and his diligence in carrying out defensive instructions often leaves Arsenal's defensive exposed.
City would need to find the right blend of players and attributes in midfield for him to play as part of a two-man midfield in a 4-2-3-1 formation, and he would struggle to play anywhere in a straight 4-4-2.
Strength: Dribbling
3 of 8
Perhaps the most underrated part of Wilshere's game is his dribbling ability. He has the capability to drive forward from deep, taking players on and creating space for his teammates.
He is full of neat touches, flicks, close control and an ability to ghost past defenders. He perhaps does't show it often enough, but Wilshere is a fine dribbler.
Weakness: Concentration and Awareness
4 of 8
To reach the very top of the game and maximise one's potential, concentration and application are key. Wilshere, so far, has shown too often that he switches off during games, a problem he must address.
He drifts out of games far too often and has periods of ineffectiveness. It undermines his talent and would surely be a concern to any prospective buyers.
Strength: Vision
5 of 8
Wilshere can see things on the pitch others can't, and combined with his superb passing capability, that makes him a player capable of moments of brilliance.
At Arsenal, with so many willing runners ahead of him, he has often excelled playing slide-rule balls into their path, spotting their run early and producing the kind of quality pass that puts them in on goal.
It's not something you can really teach. Wilshere is often one step ahead of other players in terms of seeing the game.
Weakness: Decision-Making
6 of 8
However, his decision-making often detracts from his natural ability to see the pattern of a game well.
Wilshere will sometimes hold on to the ball for too long or pick the wrong pass. When he's at his best, he's a fine midfielder with an array of qualities that benefit Arsenal, but when he's off his game, he can become a liability.
He needs to become more consistent if he wants to reach the pinnacle of the game.
Strength: Tenacity
7 of 8
Wilshere brings tenaciousness to the Arsenal side, something every team can benefit from.
His understanding of defending and what is required of a defensive midfielder is lacking, but he brings bite and rarely shirks a challenge.
His tackling may not always be the best, but his determination cannot be questioned. A silky, talented player he may be, but he can also fight for possession of the ball too.
Weakness: Temper
8 of 8
His tenaciousness can sometimes lead to moments of rashness, though, with Wilshere undoubtedly suffering from a temper problem.
It makes him something of a liability, a player who can be riled and goaded into bookings.
However, he hasn't seen a red in two years for Arsenal, which suggests his temperament is improving.
.jpg?w=600 "NFL star fakes injury at Savannah Bananas game")
.png?w=600 "Landing Spots For NBA Free Agents ✈️")
