Despite qualifying for the next round of the Europa League, Arsenal were disappointing in their goalless draw with Red Star Belgrade. In a game where the Serbians had the better chances, Arsenal looked lethargic and uninspired. Credit is due to Red Star who brought over a large crowd and defended well throughout the game. Having relatively enjoyed the Europa League so far, this felt like the first underwhelming game.
Most disappointing was the fact Arsenal managed to beat Belgrade away from home, although a late 1-0 win, it was almost expected that Arsenal would turn up and win. It would’ve been the first time that Arsenal won the first four group stage games in a European campaign since 2005/06, in the journey that ended in Paris of course. Having won the first three games of the group, with relative confidence, it wouldn’t have been unrealistic to set the target of achieving full points. What a message that would’ve sent out, that Arsenal in this to win it.
Wenger seemingly isn’t aiming for glory in the Europa League. Reflected by the exclusion of Iwobi from the squad, which makes little sense when he didn’t feature against Swansea and probably won’t against Manchester City. Why not play him? Or at least include some experience on the bench? Although we do have a significant game on Sunday. Clearly Wenger is playing the wrong side in the Europa League, forcing El Neny and Debuchy into centre back makes little sense.
Also, how Walcott didn’t get subbed off is beyond me. Caught offside several time, again, and really below par for one of the more experienced players. Not selling himself for a place in the first team. I hope his performances pick up, it could be his last year at the club.
Normally I break down the game into first and second half, but there’s no need to do that. Arsenal’s performance didn’t improve or change pace for any significant period. It was flat throughout, with little imagination and tedious slow passing moves. The lack of crossing throughout the game was ridiculous, with Giroud up front why not swing in a few crosses? Against a side like Red Star, it would be expected that every third cross (of decent not even good quality) will have a chance come out of it with Giroud up front. The service to Giroud was appalling. Only Wilshere and Reiss Nelson looked like creating anything. Wilshere came closest for Arsenal of course, unlucky not to score with Arsenal’s only proper chance; whilst Nelson was confident throughout with some meaningful runs. Any hint of creativity for Arsenal came through Wilshere, Arsenal’s best outfield player again in the Europa League. Willock was fairly solid too.
Conversely, Red Star created four (at least) clear cut chances, and most certainly should’ve scored. It could’ve easily been 2-0 to the Serbians. Only Matt Macey producing a superb save prevented Belgrade taking the lead. With a bit more quality Arsenal surely would’ve lost last night. That makeshift back three was vulnerable throughout.
Having qualified, and looking forward to future rounds, that has to be the worry. If Wenger continues with this ‘B’ team against stronger sides then we will get knocked out. And this relates to the League Cup too, with West Ham in the quarter final I genuinely hope Wenger plays a stronger side than last night’s. Whether that be by playing one less youngster, or switching formation to suit the players better. Admittedly injury to Chambers and Mustafi has limited the defensive options Wenger has had, suppose we have a fully fit defence though, a back three of Mertesacker, Chambers and Holding is what Wenger should opt for against West Ham.
It still surprises me how Arsenal fans don’t seem bothered about these ‘lesser’ competitions, and Wenger too. He’s never won a European trophy or League Cup yet clearly doesn’t care for them. It seems he doesn’t grasp how exciting a European campaign that goes further than a Round of 16 is to fans. Many fans don’t seem to realise this too, Arsenal fans continue with a ridiculous snobbish attitude towards the Europa League.
Its hard to complain too much, given the starting line up, qualification after four games is a good start to the Europa League, but its disappointing that the match was so dull. Next up in the Europa League is an away trip to Koln, which will be a fantastic city for the Arsenal fans to visit. Prior to that Arsenal face Man City away and the other side from North London, either side of the international break. Three challenging fixtures for the ‘A’ and ‘B’ teams.
Man of the Match: Matt Macey – made a couple of great saves, as he did against Norwich recently too. Wilshere was up there, as was Nelson, but I feel like Jack didn’t play as well as he had in other matches. Macey looked more confident than Ospina usually does.
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