Beginning of the 2008-09 season for arsenal fans- everyone's confident and optimistic about the season, which may finally see the trophy drought end at the emirates.Even with the departures of Flamini and Hleb, the assurances given by Wenger soothed the nerves.Signing of Samir Nasri bringing in the zeal and so we dreamt.....
The season is now coming to its conclusion and the trophy cabinet at the emirates is still empty.This was supposed to be the season where the young guns would finally fire all rounds.So,Where did we go wrong?
Let's get nostalgic for a moment and go back to the start of the season.4 losses in the first 15 games-That sets the pace for the title race,Doesn't it?Add to this the Gallas controversy at the beginning.Next comes the time where everyone should spend his share of time on the doctor's table, getting his injuries repaired.First,as usual,Van persie gets out and next follows the team.
Let us take a look at our team first.The Toure-Gallas pair at the heart of the defense does ok.The Adebayor-van persie combination at the front end should do brilliantly.The problem lies at the heart of our midfield where no one has the guts or the talent to win the ball for our fabulous Fabregas to run the show.Both Denilson and Song were used in that role but none proved to be effective.
The midfield has enough guile and fluidity to their play but lacks that decisiveness when needed.Nasri and Walcott do their part to keep the ball moving but both are not prolific goal scorers.Even the strikers this season failed to make an impact.And when Gallas got injured our defense looked horrible to say the least.The only thing positive to happen this season was the signing of Arshavin,who definitely took the quality to another league.
So where does this leave us for the next season?....i don't think it's all doom and gloom at arsenal but rather share wenger's opinion.The young players have gained valuable experience which will certainly make them a lot tougher for the next season.With the likes of Walcott,Denilson and Nasri improving, we would certainly have a much better and a more efficient midfield.Add to this the likes of Arshavin,Fabregas,Rosicky,Eduardo all firing their cylinders would certainly frighten any opponent.
The deficiency, i believe, is not in the attacking front.The defense needs to be strengthened at all costs.Midfield needs to be added some more steel and I think we would have a team as good as any in Europe.
So fellow gooners, let's hope we get some work done in the season break and build ourselves a good,solid team to challenge for the title.
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