Arsenal travel to Manchester City on Wednesday evening with Tierney possibly starting. It is potentially season-defining title clash. Mikel Arteta is desperately searching for ways to stop the prolific Erling Haaland. Gunners have struggled massively from a defensive perspective following the injury to William Saliba. With Rob Holding so far proving insufficient replacement for the Frenchman alongside Gabriel in Arsenal’s defence.
Where should Arsenal try and integrate Tierney
Holding has been a big reason behind those defensive difficulties. He has a woeful average rating of 6.26 while comparing to William Saliba’s strong 6.77 rating this term.
One possible change could see the Gunners go back to a three-at-the-back formation. With Gabriel and White starting alongside Tierney at centre-back. with the former Celtic man adopting the role he undertakes on international duty with Scotland. A three at the back formation is what helped Arteta win his first trophy.
This would free up Zinchenko to play in an inverted wing-back role. It will give him more time and space in the midfield. It will also ensure that he isn’t left so exposed defensively after struggling in recent weeks. Bukayo Saka is more than capable of playing in a wing-back role on the right.
However so the 25-year-old may have struggled with injuries and consistent form since joining Arsenal. But there is no doubting his “warrior” attitude. That could prove vital in what will be the biggest test of Arsenal’s title hopes at the Etihad.
Shay Given believes that a win for Manchester City against Arsenal will effectively give them one hand on the title. He went on to say:
“Arsenal have dropped six points in three games at such a bad time, so you’d imagine the City players will be rubbing their hands together at the opportunity they’ve been given. “
“It’s an interesting one for Arsenal – it feels like a bit of a free hit. They’re not expected to win, which may suit them better as they’ve struggled in games where they’ve been the favourites recently.“
