The form of Arsenal this season has been inconsistent. They have the best form this season in the "big four mini-league" as Andy Gray puts it, but they have suffered away defeats to the likes of Sheffield Utd, Bolton and Man City. The theory that most often gets thrown into the ring at this stage is that Arsenals style of play, while being "beautiful" can be ineffective. Too much passing, not enough shooting. I do see where people are coming from with this but i think they are wrong. Wenger's style of fluid passing and movement, with players full of pace and technique has won him several trophies, amongst which are two premiership titles. The last two seasons Arsenal have been less effective, at least domestically. Is this because Wengers style of play is somehow less effective? I would say no. For years now teams have played defensive, physical football against Arsenal and the Gunners could cope with it, so whats changed? Well for me the big reason for the decline in success of the last few years has been the change in personnel. First off Vieira. Just like Man Utd struggled when they lost Keane, Arsenal have missed Vieira. He was a talented player who could win the ball in midfield using his ridiculously long legs. Bergkamp and Pires have also left. Arsenal miss the guile and wizardry of Bergkamp and miss the dynamism and goals of Pires. In addition it hasn't helped that Ljungberg hasn't played at his best for a few season. The current Arsenal midfield has talent. Take a typical full-strength line up. Fabregas, Gilberto, Hleb and Rosicky. Very talented individuals but i ask you one question: Where are the goals? None of these players will score as many as Pires and Ljungberg have. Arsenal now have a physically weaker side with less experience and less goals in them. I dont think the style is the problem, rather that the personnel. Another factor in their demise is the rise of chelsea and to a lesser extent the rise in Liverpool.
I think Pires is the biggest miss. He use to get us alot of goals every season and Rosicky/Helb just aren't firing at the moment. Things will look better next year. I hope.
