I have been stuck in the twitter merry go round that invariably comes when we give the world a platform to voice their opinion. The debate is fantastic and certainly opens the eyes to thought processes and ideologies that were previously hidden from the brain.
Unfortunately there is plenty of toxicity that goes with the unique and diverse view points. Anything shrouded in anger or rudeness to be honest just doesn’t really hit my brain as something worth listening to.
The big debate I have been engaging with is whether or not Arteta is doing a good job and whether a finish between 4th and 6th place would be considered a success this year.
First things first, success and achievements are always best when analyzed with context. Arsenal finished 8th in the last 2 years running. They have been to put it lightly going through a sharp and unforgiving rebuild phase. Put bluntly we have been on a whole poor.
If we are going to look at this objectively, there is no way in anyone’s right mind you can think that Arsenal can go from 8th to 1st (or even 2nd or 3rd) in one season.
Small steps.
So on that value to me finishing anywhere from 4th to 6th is successful. We have stepped up the ladder, and put ourselves in a great position to improve again next season.
If I look at our squad – we have replaced a lot of old, deadwood with fresh, exciting youngsters who are engaged in the project. They are determined to succeed with Arsenal and be legends. Take Saka and Emile Smith Rowe for example.
We must then look at playing style. Admittedly we have dropped backwards when it comes to attacking style, creating chances and excitement. A long way adrift of Wenger’s sides, even those that were fairly weak in comparison. However one must also note that Unai Emery was at the helm when the attack ship started to take on water.
Defensively I am very excited. We have hard working, quality defenders across the back five, with depth and others out on loan. We look more solid as a unit and are harder to break down. Big plus to Arteta for sorting out that defensive unit.
The scary thing is this backline will only progress. They have only played 10 odd games together.
Another aspect of the club which has improved dramatically is the team culture. Arteta has brought together a group of not only good players, but good men. All willing to work for one another and excited to do it for Arsenal. No more shit talkers in the stands earning upwards of 80k to piss around at training all week.
I’m quickly scrolling back up through my piece, and I see a lot to feel positive about.
I agree with many people 5th, 6th is not to be considered successful or winning. But to Arsenal in this state – it is a successful season which leads us to push back towards what can be considered overall to be a winning season – challenging for the big trophies.
There you have it. My take on whether I am happy so far. Just remember this Liverpool team took years and years to build back to where they are now. It takes time. Let’s not jump the gun too fast yeah…
Kia Kaha.
