Arsenal's US Tour: A Club United and Poised for Improvement

 

Arsenal's US Tour: A Club United and Poised for Improvement

Spending time around the Arsenal camp in the United States, it was clear that this is a club united in purpose and ambition. The atmosphere was intense on the training pitch and during games, yet away from these moments, manager Mikel Arteta exhibited a relaxed demeanor far removed from the tetchy figure often seen on the touchline. Similarly, technical director Edu appeared to be a man confidently in control of his remit.

Edu’s role involves sifting through numerous agents offering players to Arsenal, and he comes across as a clear-minded individual, not one to be swayed by the allure of flashy but unsubstantiated talent. This pragmatic approach has fostered a sense of purpose within the club, masking many potential issues and even generating goodwill towards the ownership, a remarkable turnaround from the fury directed at them during the Super League debacle.

Arsenal's aim is clear: to improve and to win. This is no easy task, given that they have amassed 84 and 89 points respectively in the past two Premier League seasons, only to finish second to Manchester City each time. When asked before the Bournemouth game in Los Angeles if it was possible to improve after two nearly perfect seasons, Arteta's response was unequivocal: "We have to."

Internally, Arsenal's process for achieving this improvement is likened to a software update. They are not merely making subtle tweaks; they are implementing a comprehensive system upgrade to address identified weaknesses and bugs. "We want to improve in everything," Arteta emphasized. "Attacking metrics, defensive metrics, restarts, set-pieces."

The challenge of overtaking his former club, Manchester City, is one that Arsenal will not shy away from. Here are three key areas highlighted during the US tour:

1. Intensified Training Regime: The intensity on the training pitch was palpable. Arteta's focus on high-energy, high-precision drills aims to instill a relentless work ethic and tactical awareness in the squad. This approach is designed to ensure that players are not only physically prepared but also mentally sharp for the challenges of the upcoming season.

2. Enhanced Tactical Awareness: Arteta and his coaching staff are emphasizing a more nuanced understanding of both offensive and defensive play. By focusing on various attacking and defensive metrics, the team aims to be more adaptable and effective in different phases of the game. This holistic approach to tactics is expected to bring a new level of sophistication to Arsenal's play.

3. Set-Piece Proficiency: Recognizing the importance of set-pieces in modern football, Arsenal is dedicating significant time to improving in this area. Both offensive and defensive set-pieces are being meticulously practiced, with the aim of turning these situations into decisive moments in matches. The attention to detail in set-piece routines could prove to be a critical factor in close contests.

As Arsenal prepares for the new season, the sense of unity and purpose within the camp is unmistakable. With Arteta’s clear vision and Edu’s strategic oversight, the club is poised to make significant strides. The challenge of surpassing Manchester City is formidable, but Arsenal is gearing up for the task with a renewed sense of vigor and determination.