Interlull
We’re halfway through the current international break and this interlull is particularly painful. The momentum that is building and its resulting excitement are temporarily halted. The prestige of player/club exposure on the international stage is balanced by the anxiety of players having to travel and risk injury for their respective countries.
Favorite Players
With the remodel going on in the squad, I have been receiving and hearing a lot of questions going around about selecting a favorite player in the squad. As I thought about a response, I realized that I can’t pick a certain player who is currently standing out on top of my list. The changes under the new manager have brought a mix of experience, skill, pace, and technique. This blend leaves me looking at the side as a whole, with particular players for their incredible specialties. I find it comforting and very reminiscent of the early-2000’s where the first team was an understandable selection and sparks of brilliance could occur anywhere on the pitch.
As Emery imposes his new strategy and shapes the team, fans will have favorites based on personal preference and their opinion on how the game should be played. The hype on new signings and emerging youth will lever fans as well. The fact that these opinions are so evenly spread, rather than compartmentalized throughout the fanbase, is positive.
For example, Guendouzi breaking into the side reminds me of the young talent that was Fabregas. Not necessarily in position or style of play, but in the way that he has an impact as a newly-established player. Xhaka’s distribution outweighs his defensive frailties, which can hopefully be foiled by Torreira. Up front, we’re hoping for a complimentary pairing of Aubameyang and Lacazette to be supported by a strong set of options rotating in the midfield. If Monreal and Bellerin stay fit, the last piece of the puzzle is developing a partnership in the center-back roles with the keeper. When all of this dust settles on the transition phase, with constant competition amongst players earning their positions, we can finally start pushing back to becoming a dominant unit as a club.
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