Has Arsene Wenger Made Arsenal Too Pretty and Not Strong Enough?

Think back to the 17th of January. Arsenal had just come from 2-0 down to defeat Bolton 4-2. Arsene Wenger's men sat atop the Premier League table. Fans were immediately taking back criticism they had bestowed upon the Frenchman and his team. 

Now Arsenal sit third, nine points behind leaders Chelsea and seven behind second place Manchester United. The Gunners are coming off consecutive defeats to both sides. In both performances Arsenal were frail in defence, lacking muscle and power, and in attack, lacking strength and finishing.

The two devastating losses have enabled the question the be raised, have Arsenal become too weak?

People are questioning whether Wenger has tried too hard to duplicate the style of Barcelona—if you score two we'll score three. Critics and fans are starting to ponder whether Wenger's lineup is just pretty to watch and lacking seriously in strength and power.

In Arsenal's recent 2-0 defeat to leaders Chelsea, the Arsenal attack failed to make an impact. The Chelsea defence was too strong and dominant and with Arsenal lacking a genuine, skillful big man in Robin van Persie's absence, Arsenal looked a lacklustre side.

Although they did try hard to find the back of the net, you felt they just weren't powerful enough. Also with Wenger's failure to lure a striker to the Emirates, people are also questioning whether Wenger's transfer tactics are falling apart.

Looking back on Arsenal and Wenger's glorious 2003/2004 campaign, where the Gunners managed to achieve the double hat-League and FA Cup, and maintain no losses through the EPL season. A feat that is yet to be broken.

That squad boasted strength, power and depth whilst also playing an attractive brand of football. Arsene Wenger had the likes of Patrick Vieira, Martin Keown, Jens Lehman, Kanu, and Gilberto at his disposal and although this current Arsenal side is a very talented bunch, it lacks serious aggression and power.

So has Wenger tried too hard to duplicate the Spanish giants Barcelona and now made Arsenal too pretty and not strong enough? Does Wenger need to revive some power into his side and have the Gunners playing gritty, aggressive, ugly football?