Arsenal-Grove

What is really going on at Arsenal?

2019-07-24T10:42:00.000+01:00

It's two weeks to the start of the new season and Arsenal are yet to address the many issues that plagued the team last season. We are currently low-balling Celtic and Crystal Palace into selling their best players to us. The club captain Laurent Koscielny is on strike and wants out. He is apparently tired of playing with Mustafi every week.

We brought in Edu as our first technical director and the expectation from fans is huge. All those years of keeping the powder dry ( Gazidis liked that phrase) and waiting for financial fair play to kick in so that Arsenal will thrive seems like wasted years now. Financial Fair Play failed and Arsenal have had to change strategy. Gazidis jumped ship to Milan. Player transfer fees have gone through the roof and we are at a limbo both on and off the pitch.

Whatever strategy they are trying to execute, the hope is that it comes off - or the fan revolt will come early this year.

We are waiting Arsenal...

The Big Match Preview: Arsenal vs Barcelona

2016-02-23T10:42:00.000+01:00

It doesn't get bigger than Barcelona. This is a game made in football heaven for the neutrals. Pass and move, press high and fast, pass and move and then bam! It goes in. At least that's what you expect from Barcelona. We know they are almost unstoppable; a thunderstorm that sweeps off everything that stands in it's way. How do you stop the trio of Messi, Suarez and Neymar? Can it be done over 90 minutes? How do you survive the incessant pressing of Barcelona?

The enormity of the task before Arsene Wengers men is clearly obvious. As Gary Neville and his Valencia team found out, there's really no stopping the boys from Catalonia when they are on song. However, Wenger has been here before. He's played this tie. I'm sure he's spent the last 48hours analyzing videos and thinking of the best approach to this game. It's easy to analyze. But a different thing to get your team to execute a plan against Barcelona. Confidence will be up. You would expect that of any team about to face the best team in the world.

Team Selection

Defense: Petr Cech starts in goal. No competition here. He is yet to concede a goal to Messi. But I hate stats like this, because they are rubbished in games like this. Can Cech keep Messi out for 90 minutes? Yes, but highly unlikely. He's just too good.

The two fullbacks pick themselves. Bellerin and Monreal, both Spanish, would be specially up for this battle. If they manage to play well, they could be on the radar of the Spanish squad for the Euros in France later in the summer. Both defenders have had a pretty solid season. Bellerin will have to defend well against Neymar with his box of tricks.

Koscielny starts in the centre with Per. Now this could be a minus or a plus for Arsenal. It all depends on how Wenger sets up his team tonight. It would be disastrous to adopt a high pressing game when Mertesacker plays. So one would expect the two CB's to play narrow but not too deep. Per is an asset at corners but sadly, he doesn't score often from them. Can he step up tonight?

In the middle, Coquelin obviously starts. Do you put Ramsey next to him? Seems the logical option. He's experienced at this level and his energy levels will be needed. You just expect him to be more accurate with his shots, time his runs perfectly and eliminate the Hollywood passes. Flamini/Elneny should make the bench.

Ozil obviously comes in for the number 10 role with Giroud up top and Alexis to his left. Who plays wide right? Will Wenger be bold and go with Welbeck or does he start Oxlade Chamberlain and throw in Theo and Welbz later in the game? This is a huge decision. Luckily, Wenger is paid handsomely to make decisions like this.

It is important that the team maintains discipline and not concede free-kicks close to the box. Equally important not to pick a red. This will potentially make the tie a no contest. Defend together, don't try to out- pass them and work the channels well. Set-pieces will be crucial. That's why I would go with a front three of Alexis-Giroud-Welbeck . Alexis needs to simplify his game and be more direct tonight. Dribbling into players does not win points.

In summary, the team needs to defend together for long periods and make their chances count, when it comes. It doesn't get bigger than this.

Can Arsenal really win the Premier League?

2016-01-07T11:01:00.000+01:00

With a raft of injuries to first team regulars, Arsenal are about to enter a period that will potentially define their title fate this season. Two successive away fixtures beckons: Liverpool and Stoke, before Chelsea visits the Emirates. You can understand why Arsene Wenger has decided to give his players a mini winter break after the grueling Christmas fixtures. If the team can come through these three fixtures with no new injuries and at least seven points then you can dream eh?

Alexis Sanchez, Mikel Arteta and Tomas Rosicky are all expected to return in the next week or so. You would expect Alexis to go straight into the team for the Liverpool clash and Arteta to make the bench, at least. Arsenal has managed to be competitive with Campbell and Walcott deputizing on the left side of attack over the past three weeks. Of course, the results have been okay but these players have not really fired on all cylinders. Sanchez brings a massive goal threat and substantially lifts the confidence of the players around him. He's a menace to defenders because he will never stop running at you. His fitness over the course of the season will surely be a deciding factor on whether Arsenal can sustain their title charge.

It is rather disappointing that Jack Wilshere and Danny Welbeck are still out with no one exactly sure when they will return. If, and this is a massive if, the duo return in time for the two legged Champions League tie vs Barca, then you really do fancy Arsenal to maybe, just maybe edge out Barcelona on away goals. With the imminent arrival of Mohammed Elneny (let's hope this doesn't turn to another Yann M'vila/Higuain wahala eh?) and Coquelin starting to run again, you really do fancy this Arsenal team to go all the way (you can dream, it's free :-) )

Leroy Rosenior of Premier League FanZone said Arsenal can only win the league if they are four points ahead with one game left in the season. The fans might disagree but you can see why he said that. Arsenal could have won the league in 2011/2012 and 2013/2014 but the team couldn't hold on. Wenger's inability to strengthen the team in January, coupled with injuries and failure in Europe saw the team's challenge fizzle out.

With Arsenal away to Man City on the penultimate week of the season, you can see why Leroy made that statement. This could potentially be a title decider. Can Wenger add more than Elneny this January? Knowing full well he has just Man City to beat (for now, things can change quickly) to win this league, or will he hope his injured stars make a quick and full recovery to aid title charge? Has he learnt from previous seasons? How ruthless is he at 66? This might be his last chance to win the Premier League before his contract expires in a year and half.

Photo credit: Arsenal.com

Table

Pos Team P Pts

1 Arsenal 20 42

2 Leicester City 20 40

3 Man City 20 39

4 Tottenham 20 36

5 Man Utd 20 33

6 West Ham 20 32

Pos	Team	P	Pts
1	Arsenal	20	42
2	Leicester City	20	40
3	Man City	20	39
4	Tottenham	20	36
5	Man Utd	20	33
6	West Ham	20	32

Arsenal Grove is making a comeback!

2015-11-14T15:36:00.001+01:00

It's been over two years i posted on this blog and i've missed this incredibly. I stopped blogging due to some geographical issues but that's all over now.

I shall start posting updates again after the dreaded international break. Cheers people!

The Curious Case of Arsenal Football Club

2013-03-05T15:45:00.003+01:00

This season has been an average one for Arsenal fans. The team has put in too many shoddy displays and underperformed when you expected them to deliver. Some say the players aren't good enough, some blame the manager for his stubbornness and same approach to every game irrespective of opposition. One thing is clear, both arguments have valid points. Players have been sold and replaced with players of less quality. Some haven't been replaced. You can question the ambition of the club and hunger of the manager who was successful in the past. However, Arsene Wenger is clearly suffering from the inept performances of this team. You can see it on his face and the way he's clearly restless in every game, like he's expecting a cock-up of some sorts from his team. That confidence and calmness he used to exude from the touchline is clearly gone.

You can blame the management of the club for consistently sanctioning the sale of it's best players. No singular sports team wins anything when they embark on an endless selling spree. It's like Arsenal has become more of a financial institution obsessed with their balance sheet rather than the performance of the team on the football pitch. On the other hand, you can also blame the manager for not speaking out before now. The norm has always been that the club had money but that Wenger doesn't want to spend. That is a bit naive. Which top manager will seat on piles of cash and watch his team fail year after year?

A couple of seasons ago, Wenger made a statement that suggested he's been forced to sell high and do bargain basement shopping for replacements.

Imagine the worst case scenario, we lose Cesc and Nasri in the same week, no one would ever believe you are a big club after.

Or something along those lines. Arsenal did sell those players a week later. Am not sure Wenger wanted that. Kroenke and the board must have over-ruled him and pocketed the cash. You can sympathise with wenger on that premise.

But, who bought Park, Santos, Squillacci and Gervinho? There seems to be an apparent lack of willingness to spend by Wenger, even when the funds were available. He would rather claim there's no value in the market or say that no one out there can improve his team. Nacho Monreal was signed only after Gibbs picked up an injury despite the fact it was clear Santos doesn't have anything in his locker. Chamakh, Park and Bendtner were all sent out on loan without any replacement. That smacks of arrogance and lack of desire to improve or compete. Add to that the complete absence of Arshavin from games this season and you question why Wenger didn't add at least a striker and winger.

Another talking point is Wenger's approach to games. The team seems to be very predictable. Too many times teams have been able to stifle Arsenal without trying too hard. Norwich, Swansea, Bradford, Blackburn all come to mind this season. The managers too often says that they don't bother about other teams or key players; they just focus on their own philosophy and quality and the way they want to express themselves on the pitch. Sounds like someone out of touch with reality and the modern game. Less endowed teams have been able to do better than Arsenal this season just by their managers being flexible with tactics. Swansea the obvious example.

Whatever financial restraints Wenger must have been on, it doesn't excuse his dodgy game plan, defensive frailty and lack of dynamism of his team. He's obviously under a lot of pressure and strain. The fans are less forgiving as they have been patient for too long. Arsenal has ten games to rescue their season. Finish in the top four, and Wenger will have a shot at re-building this team as funds are clearly available now. Seven points behind Spurs and five behind Chelsea, a loss and a draw this weekend for both teams can hand the momentum back to Arsenal. But of course, they have to win their own games first. Bayern is ten days away, chance for a bit of redemption.

Arsenal thrash 5pur2|Theo on fire|Jack getting back to his best

2012-11-19T17:05:00.002+01:00

The NLD on Saturday was a complete cracker. This is a game that completely goes against the form books. Arsenal needed to get back to winning ways and boy they did it in style. Madebayor was pumped up and ready to show the Arsenal faithful they made a mistake of offloading him.

5pur2 started the brighter of the two sides, knocking it around quite well. You can always count on this Arsenal team to give away a cheap goal, and they did within 17minutes. Per wasn't accurate with his offside trap and played Defoe on. He aimed for the far post, Szczesney parried into Madebayor's path and he swept it home. 0-1 to the enemy down the road. It felt like February all again, but no, the mad Adebayor had other plans. He flew into a challenge, studs up, against Santi Cazorla. Webb didn't hesitate to send him off. From then on, it was one way traffic.

With Henry and Sol in the stands and the crowd rocking, the players picked it up a notch. Theo beat his man on the right and whipped in a delicious cross into the box. Per rose majestically and nodded a beauty beyond Hugo Lloris. The Emirates erupted! The BFG's celebration was a beauty to watch. His very first Arsenal goal. I've always wondered why he doesn't score from corners as he has an intimidating presence in the box.

Little Jack Wilshere was running the midfield. It's amazing the talent he's got. He's totally fearless and loved playing against the enemy. He was direct and easily skipped past opponents. He kept us ticking in the middle of the pack. Our second came moments later through our German pitbull, Podolski. He drifted central, combined with Arteta and shot against Gallas' leg as the ball rolled past the hapless Lloris. The look on Gallas' face was a joy to watch.

Santi picked up possesion and ran at the 5pur2 backline, he got tripped, got up and teed up Giroud to slam home. Boom! Thiery was overjoyed. Such a legend he is. We ended the half on a high thanks to agent Adebayor's mad adrenaline rush.
The second half was a bit tight at the onset but we went ahead courtesy of a long Szcezsney punt. Giroud flicked it on, Theo played on Poldi who looked up and teased an inviting cross out to Santi to finish from 6 yards out. Gunner bliss! We were rocking but still had enough in us to let Bale get one in. We generally controlled the game as 5pur2 went 3-5-2 in search of another. Too little too late. Chamberlain set up Theo late on to cap an impressive 5-2 rout.

The win was all that mattered and we got that. I know the boss has work to do with the boys on the training pitch, but the team has got their confidence back. This was exactly what they needed. A good old fiery derby against the enemy. With Rosicky, Gervinho and Gibbs likely to return against Aston Villa, this team suddenly looks like they can push on from here and go on a run. I certainly hope they do.

Montpellier is up next in the Champions League. A win and we have one leg through to the knock-out stage in Europe. Arsene will be mad to let Theo walk away now. He is on fire and the fans love him. Give him what he wants or at least close to that. The fans won't forgive another high profile departure. He has a telepathic understanding with Sagna and that partnership should not be broken up.

Good times ahead, hopefully.

Preview: Arsenal vs Spurs

2012-11-16T09:42:00.002+01:00

It's the big one this weekend. The North London derby. This game has produced lots of excitement and goals in recent meetings, last seasons 5-2 scoreline not the least. Both teams have been in bad form but form goes out the window in these games. It's all about who turns out on the day and who wants it more. Both managers will want to bounce back from recent defeats, especially Arsene Wenger who has seen his team's performances turn into a nightmare.

Arsenal will be boosted by the return of 'keeper Wojciech Szczesny, Theo Walcott and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlin. Gibbs and Rosicky are in training but are doubtful. If Gibbs makes just the bench, Vermaelen will have to continue at left-back. Saturday's early kick-off is an opportunity for this Arsenal team to banish it's demons and land three vital points. The gap to the top is already 11 points after 10 games. This is Arsene Wenger's worst league start at Arsenal. It was the same last season. It appears the team is regressing with each season despite some new arrivals.

I would expect an attacking team on Saturday as 3 points are absolutely necessary. It'll be interesting to see how Wenger sets up his team. The midfield practically picks itself - Arteta-Carzorla-Jack. Theo and Giroud are sure to start but the gaffer might opt for Ox on the left to match the threat of the speedy Lennon.

                                                           Szczesny

Sagna                           BFG                                    Kos                                    Verm

                                        Arteta                         Jack
                                                         Santi
Theo                                                                                                                    Ox
                                                         Giroud
That's the team i hope will start on Saturday. It's necessary to take the game to them and not seat back and try to contain Bale and co. I hope Wenger doesn't make the error of starting Ramsey on the right. He can be sloppy and gives no attacking width to the team.

Prediction: 3-2 home win.

Stoke City 0 - 0 Arsenal | Quick Thoughts | Crucial week for Wenger to buy

2012-08-26T19:18:00.001+01:00

Stoke vs Arsenal has become a fixture to look forward to in recent seasons. The Brittania is a tough place to go and pick up points. Pulis sets up his team in such a way that makes it difficult to beat them. Everyone hates their style but it's efficient and works for them.

Arsenal fired blanks against Sunderland last week and this game was like a fresh start to get the team going. Wenger stuck with the same line-up with only one change: Giroud on and Theo off. I thought that was a good decision as Theo struggles against teams that pack the bus.

Gervinho started on the right with Poldi on the other wing while Giroud lead the line. Arsenal quickly imposed their style on their hosts without creating any clear-cut chances. It's hard to do that when you have ten men behind the ball. Stoke was content to sit deep and counter when they had a sniff. They are truly a boring team to watch.

Gervinho was lively early on but lacked that end product. Poldi and Santi bossed the midfield alongside Arteta. Diaby - well, he's still Diaby, talented but never seems to impose himself on the game. He slows the game down when it's simpler to just give a pass. We really don't need another Song. Arteta and Cazorla were excellent in the middle. Jenks really impressed me a lot. He's playing with confidence now and commanded that right side of the defence pretty well.

Chances were at a premium. Giroud still hasn't come to terms with the quickness of the EPL. He clearly was off pace today, only came alive late on with the introduction of Ox and Theo. There are a lot of positives to take from this game. The team looks well drilled - defensively. There's good organization when they lose the ball. Steve Bould has obviously brought some accountability to the team. Two clean sheets out of two games.

Attention now shifts to the offensive side of the team. There's an obvious lack of understanding and sharpness in the final third. I would be surprised if Wenger didn't move for another striker, especially with Chamakh - who's no good and Park lined up for loans. Le Boss admitted he's still in the market for at least a defender and a 'completely defensive midfielder'. On the evidence of what we've seen from these two games, a top striker should be a priority.

At the end of the week we could have any of Tiote/M'Vila/Capoue/Yanga Mbiwa and a totally unknown striker.There's still a lot of work to be done on this team.

Arsenal capture Santi Cazorla | Nuri Sahin set to join on season-long loan

2012-08-03T11:35:00.000+01:00

Arsenal is expected to officially announce the capture of Malaga CF sensation Santi Cazorla today. Cazorla passed a medical at Arsenal's Colney training base yesterday and put pen to paper on a four-year contract worth 70,000 pounds/week. Malaga will be paid 22million euros for the skillful player who they only signed last summer from Villareal.

New Gunner- Santi Cazorla

Cazorla flew into London yesterday with his agent and family to conclude the deal. The 5ft 6" midfielder is expected to slot into the creative midfield role for Arsenal this season. Wenger wanted him to replace Fabregas last summer but was gazzumped by Malaga. However, it appears the football gods favour Le Prof this summer.

Nuri Sahin is the next player on the cards, on a season-long loan from Real Madrid. An agreement is within reach between all parties involved. Sahin rejected a move to Spurs as a make-weight in the Modric deal. Jose Mounrinho was recently quoted as saying that Sahin's loan move "is in his hands".

Wenger wants to sign Sahin as an alternative to Yann M'Villa, who he is not convinced about. The delay in the return of Jack Wilsere has made it absolutely necessary to have quality cover in the central midfield positions. Wenger is cautious about Jack and wants to ease him back into the team slowly. Tomas Rosicky is out for up to three months and Diaby played only a handful of games last season due to his injuries. So it seems Wenger has learnt his lessons and does not want to go into the new season relying on injury prone players.

The addition of Cazorla and Sahin will give this Arsenal team a new look. Already, Robin van Persie is reported to have had a new attitude in training as he is excited with the quality of Cazorla and Sahin and might yet sign a new deal. Juventus has given his agent a deadline of Tuesday, 7th August for Robin to make up his mind or they will look elsewhere. Meanwhile, van Persie is expected to travel to Germany with his team mates for a 2nd training tour which will end with a match with Koln on sunday.

                                                                 Chesney
Sagna    Kos    Verminator    Gibbs/Santos

                                                             Song/Arteta/Sahin

                                                              Cazorla/Diaby

        Theo/Oxlade    RVP/Giroud                                                Poldi/Gervinho

That's a squad capable of challenging for top honours next season!

These are happy times to be a gunner, have a beautiful day.

Arsenal on the verge of signing Santi` Cazorla | B52 and Asharvin take flight

2012-07-24T13:42:00.001+01:00

Reports emerging this afternoon indicate that Arsenal are close to signing Spanish international Santi` Cazorla. Arsene was interested in the diminutive winger last summer before Malaga CF snapped him up for 19 million euros.

Malaga were expected to become the Spanish version of Chelsea after their take-over but things haven't turned out as expected. They face possible relegation and even being replaced in the Champions league by Athletico Madrid as they owe wages and are in deep financial strain.

Wenger was asked about Santi Cazorla in his presser in Malaysia yesterday and he said

I don't know this player!

We all know Arsene hardly admits interest in a player he really wants until the deal is done. He vehemently denied that Arsenal were interested in Arteta last season and signed him 48 hours later!

The Guardian reckons Arsenal has agreed personal terms with the player. All that remains is an agreement between the two clubs. That is expected to happen in the coming days as their has been contact and talks are on-going. Arsene is convinced he can get his man for 20 million euros, that is about 16.5 million pounds.

The club hopes to offload Andrei Asharvin and Nicklas Bendtner to free-up squad space and wages for two new signings. The little Russian is in talks with unidentified middle eastern clubs whereas The Great Dane is close to a 7million pounds move to Galatasaray.

With both players gone, there will be room for an extra midfielder. Rosicky is out for 8 weeks while Wilshere is not expected to return till October. Knowing Wenger, he might decide to gamble and stick with Diaby who only played two games last season. I still do not rule out a late bid for Yann M'Villa.

Robin van Persie will join Juventus, who has offered him a massive 190,000 pounds/week salary AFTER tax! That deal will hinge on The Old Lady meeting the minimum asking price of 20 million pounds set by the club. I think this will be the best deal for both clubs as Arsenal wouldn't like to sell to a domestic competitor.

That's it, enjoy the rest of your day.

Arsenal to sell RVP to Juventus - If they meet the asking price | Vermaelen is new captain

2012-07-20T12:38:00.001+01:00

Robin Van Persie will not kick the ball again in an Arsenal shirt. The club has received bids from three clubs: Juventus, Manchester City and Manchester United. Robin favours a move to Italy as he would find it difficult to live with the abuse that will surely be directed at him by the Arsenal fans.

Various media are reporting he won't be joining the clubs pre-season tour of Asia. That much is expected. The club will probably say he's short of fitness and needs to work on that. You can't take a player who's not committed to such a tour. Best plan is always to sell as quickly as you can and re-invest before the season kick-starts.

It will be a travesty to sell him to a domestic rival, thereby strengthening them and indirectly weakening your position. I see him going to Italy. Selling him to Manchester City or United isn't an option, that is why Juventus are in pole position to secure his signature. They will have to stump up close to 20 million pounds for him. Arsenal won't let him go for cheap.

Fernando Llorente of Athletico Bilbao, who's also in the last year of his contract is a possible replacement.

Thomas Vermaelen

Arsenal.com has been preparing the fans, unofficially, for their new captain. The promo video of Vermaelen as a Chinese Kung Fu master says it all. Robin is conspicuously absent on all new merchandise on feature for the Asia tour.

The club have inquired on the availability of Ibrahim Afellay. Barcelona will sell for 4 million pounds. That is quite cheap for a player of his quality. The club continues to trail Ganso and will watch him today in a warm-up game against GB's Olympic football team. We all know how this one is going to end. Wenger does not pay high for players. I expect Afellay to be the attacking mid that will come in. Ganso? Not so much.

More later...

Arsenal will never sell Robin to United | Striker bid rejected

2012-07-19T10:47:00.000+01:00

These Robin stories will never go away. Today it's Manchester United being touted. The Daily Mail runs a silly story about Red Nose telling friends that he will get Robin. Well, I suppose Bacon face is allowed to dream. There is no way that transfer is going to happen. Arsene Wenger will never sanction that. In fact, the Arsenal board will never sell Robin to United.

Wayne Veysey of goal.com reported via his twitter account, @wayneveysey yesterday that Arsenal will keep Robin for the last year of his contract even if he fails to sign fresh terms. I think this is the best possible outcome. You wouldn't really trust the board and Wenger to spend up to 20 million on a player. Last season's Cesc and Nasri situation just goes to show that the club would rather bank the money than re-invest in a like-for-like replacement.

The club has had a bid for 17 year old Caen forward M'Baye Niang turned down. The reported figure is 5 million pounds. That is what happens when Manchester City starts eyeballing a player, the price sky-rockets.

The manager will speak to the press over the weekend. Expect a decision on Robin, whether he's staying or going on o before then.

Picture Speak - Pictures from Pre-Season Training | Vermaelen the Kung Fu Warrior!

2012-07-18T12:09:00.002+01:00

How do i convince him to stay?

Usmanov to Abramovich-I have big plans for Arsenal!

Concetration! This guy is class

Kung Fu Master Vermaelen!

GREY HAIRS! Re-sign and have some peace skippo.

Sh*t! I spoke too quickly, how the hell am i go gonna get a club as classy as Arsenal?

Just let me go back to Russia- This game is too physical for me.

Bould- That's it Gibbsy - That's how you track back!

Bouldy to JD- You got to improve or The Boss will ship you out.

RVP talks to resume next week - again | Arsenal register interest in Ganso

2012-07-14T18:08:00.000+01:00

Arsenal- Pre-Season training

I've been off and on recently and i apologize for that. My internet connection has been erratic but hopefully that won't be a problem anymore.

Arsenal news is at a premium these days. All the stories seem to be centered on transfers. One of such stories is on RVP. Who else will it be?

He will be back from holiday next week and Arsene Wenger hopes to meet with him in a bid to convince him to re-sign. This one saga will come to a close it appears. Wenger will have to bring in at least one marquee signing if he hopes to retain the services of last season's top player.

Twitter was awash last night with rumuors of an interest in Santos play maker, Ganso. The club said the player isn't happy at the club anymore and has made up his mind to join a top European club. Arsenal are believed to have contacted the players' agent and club.

I think Wenger is looking at another midfielder since Jack Wilshere will be out till September. What other way to prove to your captain that you are going to challenge than to add a Brazilian international? Apart from Gilberto Silva, I don't think Arsenal has ever signed any other top Brazilian player. Maybe you can add Edu to that list. There was Silvinho and Baptista and there is Denilson, who has been sent out on loan again to Sao Paulo. I don't think that name brings any excitement. The only things that come to mind when you mention Denilson: backwards and sideways passes!

We might end up with Ibrahim Afellay of Barcelona. He's not wanted at Barca and his agent has been in contact with the club. A fee in the region of 4.5million pounds will get him. That's a bargain if you ask me. I remember Wenger was in for him before he opted to join Barca. And we all know how Wenger loves cheap players!

Arsenal gets their pre-season campaign underway this evening at St. Mary's in the Markus Liebherr Memorial Cup. That game will kick-off in over 50 minutes from now.

That's all I've got for now, more tomorrow...

Chamakh to Fiorentina | Djourou to Napoli - Jovetic's agent in London

2012-07-09T20:14:00.000+01:00

Just quick tit-bits of Arsenal transfer news making the rounds in the media. The Daily Mail says Fiorentina has made a fresh bid for ~~flop~~ Marouane Chamakh. His time at Arsenal is definitely up. Arsene Wenger hardly featured him last season, even when RVP was not firing. The manager has obviously seen Chamakh can't cut it for Arsenal at the top.

This is good news. Another bit of news concerns Johan Djourou who has been attracting interest from Italian club Napoli. It appears there's been contact between the club and JD's agent and a deal looks likely. Add that to the expected departure of French defender, Squillachi and Carlos Vela, the club can free up some money to invest on new transfers.

There's seems to be a change in Arsene's policy this summer. A more ruthless approach you might say. Cut the dross who are happy to sit on the bench and collect money and re-invest in new quality players.

One player who could be wearing the red and white of Arsenal next season is Stefan Jovetic of Fiorentina. Italian media reports his agent, Fali Ramadani is in London talking to Arsenal about the transfer of the striker. That would most likely mean Arsenal will definitely be selling RVP. Juventus seems to be his likely destination.

And the deal to bring M'Villa to Arsenal might still be on. It has gone eerily quiet in the past couple of weeks on that front. Bayern has pulled out and Rennes says they have not received a bid from any club for him. It all looks like the kind of deal Arsenal loves. Watch out, M'Vila could still end up at Arsenal.

That's all I have for you now, more later...

Van Persie to be replaced by Lewandowski or Jovetic | Usmanov slams board

2012-07-06T10:58:00.000+01:00

The papers this morning are filled with stories about the Van Persie situation. It all feels like deja vu all again. The manner in which Van Persie tried to turn the fans against the club is quite disgusting. His statement was carefully worded to make it seem like the club lacks ambition.

That has made his position untenable now. Bridges has been burnt and surely, there's no going back now. He has to be sold. Trust Arsenal to nick every possible pound from this disaster. The club will have to sell to the highest bidder. Barcelona and Real Madrid are yet to indicate interest, add that, if they do, to the two Manchester clubs and Juventus and the club will be licking their lips at a possible bidding war.

The fans will be on his back if he doesn't leave this summer. Arsenal can't and won't leave a player who has had his head turned as it's captain and leader. That would have disastrous consequences for the team going forward. If an adequate replacement is brought in, he won't be missed one bit. Yes, he will not be missed. I know he scored 30 odd goals last season, but with three offensive players sharing the goal-scoring burden, van Persie will soon be a forgotten man.

This scandal clearly puts the Fabregas situation last summer in proper perspective. A large section of the fan base still loves him and there's a chance he will return to Arsenal in the future because of the first refusal clause built into the deal with Barcelona. Fabregas didn't speak out publicly against the club even after the club kept him for one more season against his wish. He respected the team that made him a star and the supporters. That can't be said of Van Persie, who put out the now standard player quote:

'We disagree with the way the club should move forward'.

The club are already busy looking at possible replacements for him. Robert Lewandowski and Stefan Jovetic are the names believed to be on the hit-list. The club's scouting team will hold a meeting next week to deliberate on this and decide on a possible replacement. Both players were scouted several times last season as there were doubts on Van Persie signing a new contract.

Lewandowski won the Bundesliga last season, for the second season in a row with Borussia Dortmund. I have not seen much of Jovetic but if the club watched him, he must have something good about him. I won't really be fussed about Van Persie leaving if we sign a top replacement. Lewandoski will be cheaper as he has two years left on his deal and might be tempted by the lure of the Premier League.

Red and White Holdings, the investment machine of Arsenal shareholders Alisher Usmanov and Moshiri issued an open letter to the Arsenal board yesterday. It was opportunistic to say the least, but can you blame them? The full text is here.

Till tomorrow, have a great day.

Robin Van Persie replacements - Edin Dzeko or Papiss Cisse?

2012-07-05T10:47:00.000+01:00

The news we have all been dreading finally hit us yesterday. Robin wasn't going to sign a new contract. I guess we've all known this deeply inside. We just hoped that it turn out differently. The arguments has been raging since yesterday on twitter. Many have sent him with abuses and the like since he made his statement.

We can talk about it all day but it does not change the fact that he has made up his mind about leaving. The most important thing now it to buy an adequate replacement before the start of the season. Robin feels he's got to that stage in his career when he has to put himself first. Who will blame him?

He says he is not motivated by money but we all know that isn't completely true. This is his last chance for a fat salary and some medal. He certainly won't have the kind of season he just had at Arsenal again, considering his injury records in the previous six years.

If he moves to Manchester City as expected, Arsenal will have to get the best possible deal for him. I will be in favour of a swap deal + some cash, if possible for him. Edin Dzeko has fallen out of favour at the Etihad. He would slot into the team seamlessly. Am sure the prospect of regular first team games will spur him on and do his confidence some good.

We can easily expect at least 20 goals from Dzeko considering his quality. He is a bit similar to Giroud in the way he's built. Excellent in the air with the right physicality needed in the Premier League, and he's right -footed.

Ray Parlour thinks that Wenger should get Papiss Cisse with the money that will come in for Robin. That would be a pound-for-pound replacement. He took the Premier League by storm from January scoring 1 in every other game, i think, till the end of the season. He was exceptional against Chelsea, scoring the goal of the season with a sensational volley.

Cisse will make the fans forget about van Persie quite easily. The problem is Wenger is renowned for his stubbornness and may decide Podolski and Giroud will be enough for next season. That is the fear of Arsenal fans. We can all understand Robin wanting to win as he's not getting younger, but will arsene re-invest the money into another forward?

It will be a case of two steps backward if Robin is not replaced. Last summer was a disaster for the club. Ivan Gazidis said he could write a book about what happened last summer. Is this a sequel? A bid Cesc-shaped hole is still very apparent in the squad, waiting to be filled. How will this group of players respond if they lose another captain for the second year running? How long will it take before Theo, Song or even Wilshere demands for a move too?

These are questions that demand answers. Answers in the form of new signings. Quality signings not in the calibre of Chamakh or Park. Arsenal needs an Edin Dzeko or a Papiss Cisse to stand a chance next season.

Till tomorrow.

Full transcript of Robin's statement regarding his future | Official Arsenal response

2012-07-04T19:38:00.002+01:00

Robin van Persie broke his silence on his contract situation at arsenal this afternoon. Here is the full statement if you have not read it already...

"This is an update for the fans about my current situation. I have kept quiet all this time out of respect and loyalty for the club and as agreed with Mr. Gazidis and Mr. Wenger, but since there is so much speculation in the media, I think it is fair for you guys to know what’s really going on at the moment.
As announced earlier this year I had a meeting with the Boss and Mr. Gazidis after the season. This was a meeting about the club’s future strategy and their policy. Financial terms or a contract have not been discussed, since that is not my priority at all.
I personally have had a great season but my goal has been to win trophies with the team and to bring the club back to its glory days. Out of my huge respect for Mr. Wenger, the players and the fans I don’t want to go into any details, but unfortunately in this meeting it has again become clear to me that we in many aspects disagree on the way Arsenal FC should move forward.
I’ve thought long and hard about it, but I have decided not to extend my contract. You guys, the fans, have of course the right to disagree with my view and decision and I will always respect your opinions.
I love the club and the fans, no matter what happens. I have grown up and became a man during my time with Arsenal FC. Everybody at the club and the fans have always supported me over the years and I have always given my all (and more) on and off the pitch. I am very proud of being part of this fantastic club for the last 8 years. As soon as Mr. Gazidis is back from his 2-week holiday in America further meetings will follow and I will update you if and when there are more developments".

Arsenal has issued the following statement in response...

Arsenal Football Club has issued the following statement with regard to Robin van Persie's future:

"  We have to respect Robin's decision not to renew his contract. Robin has one year to run on his current contract and we are confident that he will fulfil his commitments to the Club.

"We are planning with ambition and confidence for next season with Arsenal's best interests in mind."

Now we know for certain he's leaving due to the club's lack of ambition. More to follow...

.

Wenger to Robin - You owe me! | B52's agent talks

2012-07-04T10:59:00.000+01:00

Arsene Wenger says the club must do all it can to keep hold of captain Robin Van Persie this summer. Van Persie has not signed a three-year contract worth some 140k/week pounds he has been offered. The contract also has in-built loyalty bonus of 5million pounds spread over the duration of the deal.

Robin scored 30 goals in 38 Premier League games last season to make him the hottest striker around. With Manchester City snipping around, Wenger is in a tight battle to keep his captain at the club. In his blog for Eurosport, Wenger said:

" We want to keep Robin van Persie at all costs, because we depend on him offensively.

" I have always supported him even in the hardest times, and I hope he will end his career at Arsenal."

Strong words from the gaffer. The message to Robin is pretty clear: I stood by you during all those years you consistently got injured and people asked me to sell you, I kept faith in you, now you must repay that faith!
RVP did not sign the offered contract at first instance, well who does? He wanted to go to the Euros and add a couple of zero's to his value, that didn't quite work out.

Now, the club has strengthened, offensively, and with two or more additions will look to challenge for the title next season.Robin can't argue that he has the lot of the scoring burden anymore. There's a platform now for him to succeed with this team. Eight years marred with injuries is a long time in football, any other club would have sold him before he hit form.

I can't see him going to Manchester City, the board would not make that mistake again. Strengthening a direct competitor with your best player won't go down well with the supporters. Wenger is making the right noises, so let's hope the board will stump up the cash to re-sign him.

In other news, Jasper Lynghus, Bendtner's agent has been talking to bold.dk:

" The interest is overwhelming, just as it should be after the way Nicklas performed at EURO 2012.

That was last month. Now it seems Malaga and Galatasaray are very much interested in the ~~Great Dane~~. His move will only be a positive for Arsenal as he has talked himself out of ever playing for the club again.

Lyon president, Jean-Michel Aulas says Arsenal will need an offer in the region of 20m euros to get keeper Hugo Lioris.

"Hugo told me he would like to leave if an offer comes in from one of the biggest five clubs in Europe.

'If one of these clubs makes an offer that matches his market value, in other words 20m (£16m) Euros then he can go.

"If there is no offer before July 15 he will remain at the club for the coming season.

"For the moment there has been no offer from Arsenal or anywhere else."

Arsenal needs an experienced goal-keeper for a fact, but i don't see Wenger spending that much for a number 2. Looks like Lyon are trying to cash in on their once highly rated keeper. He wasn't so great at the Euros.

That's all i have for today. Till next time, have a glorious gunner day!

Wenger to talk to Robin | Joel Campbell off to Spain

2012-07-03T11:07:00.001+01:00

La Roja

I have not written a blog for some days due to some technical issues. Spain won Euro 2012 playing some excellent football. It's been a while since any team won a major finals by such a wide margin. Iniesta and Xavi were on a different level Sunday night. This Spanish team will still be dominant for the next two years. It's probably safe to put a bet on them reaching the finals in Brazil 2014.

In Arsenal news, reports suggest Wenger will hold a telephone chat with our want-away captain this week. The manager will have to quickly resolve the issue as pre-season training starts next week. RVP will have to say whether he is committed to Arsenal with or without a new deal. The club can't go into the new season not knowing if their captain and top scorer is staying or going.

RVP

Reports of an 8million pounds bid from Juventus has been rubbished by club chairman Peter Hill-Wood.

" As far as I am aware, nobody has made any offer for him
and he is away so we are not in any dialogue at all.

"We are not in the remotest bit interested in selling him."

Well, that pretty much sends a clear message that he is not for sale. It would be a complete disaster if he is sold to Manchester City. I don't think the fans will ever forgive the board and Wenger this time around. The creativity of Cesc and Nasri hasn't been replaced yet so selling RVP would be even a bigger mess.

Young Costa Rican forward, Joel Campbell is linked with a loan move to spanish side Real Betis on a season loan as his work permit issue rumbles on. La Liga will be a step-up for him and provide better opposition for his development.

Aaron Ramsey has been selected in the Team GB men's football team for London 2012. That's a move that will give him playing time and a chance to convince Wenger that he deserves to be in his plans for the coming season. I hope playing with the likes of Ryan Giggs will improve his game and confidence levels.

That's all i have for you today. Till next time, have a good day.

C.Ronaldo chokes as the Spanish Armada matches on

2012-06-28T10:01:00.000+01:00

Last nights first semi-final game at EURO 2012 was decided on penalties as you already know. Cristiano Ronaldo has been hugely responsible for Portugal's match to the semis with three goals and match winning performances.

The Spain game was always going to be a huge test for the Portuguese. Playing with a solid defence led by Pepe and a midfield that always looked to set up a quick counter attack by releasing either Nani or Ronaldo when they won possession.

Portugal started brightly of the two teams, looking to lump it forward to Hugo Almeida up top. It took a while before Spain found their passing rhythm. Chances created were at a premium though as Portugal really did a good job on Xavi. The trio of Mountinho, Miguel Veloso and Raul Meireles denied the tiki-taka brigade time on the ball.

I was quite surprised to see Sevilla striker, Negredo get a start. His lack of movement and David Silva's poor touches greatly hindered Spain going forward. Del Bosque took a big gamble by not starting with Fabregas or Torres. Am fairly certain we have seen the last of Negredo at the Euros as he did his reputation no good.


Cesc Fabregas won it for Spain

C. Ronaldo had flashes of brilliance but was not given a yard on the ball. He had four free-kicks all wasted. One would have thought that he would score from at least one of those chances to hit his trademark dipping-long-ranger. When things didn't go his way, he tried the usual trick of deceiving the referee. Only this time he was rewarded with a yellow card for his efforts.
Nani, well i never rated him, and Almeida provided little support.

Late on, Iniesta had a glorious chance to win it in normal time after a beautiful jinking run by Alba. I always thought Spain were favourites if it went to penalties. Portugal had ran out of steam. Who wouldn't after chasing after a ball for 120 minutes?

C. Ronaldo was expected to take the first penalty, as captain and the usual penalty taker for both club and country. Surprisingly he didn't. He must be ruing that decision by now. He was listed as the fifth pen taker, to take all the glory if they won through the last kick? Or to relieve the pressure of scoring/missing the first pen?

End of the road

Spain won 4-2 on penalties after a gruelling 120 minutes. They will have to up their game as Germany/Italy in the final will be a different kind of proposition.

I'll be back with Arsenal news later in the day. Good morning.

Giroud - I have the qualities to succeed in the Premier League

2012-06-27T10:06:00.003+01:00

New no 9

Olivier Giroud believes he has the qualities to be a success for Arsenal in the premier league. He told Arsenal Player:

“I think I have the weapons to do well here, I will need some time to adapt of course, but I’m not worried about that. I think I will adapt well".

“I’m a player who likes to play, who likes to participate in the game. That’s why I think the way Arsenal play will suit me. I like scoring goals and Arsenal create a lot of chances, so if I do well, then we will do well.

“Of course, there are big strikers here, it is a big club and there will be a lot of competition for places. But it’s up to me to win my place.”

It will be quite exciting to see a line-up of Podolki-RVP-Giroud as our striking options. That trident is full of goals, creativity, aerial threat and power. Every Premier League defense will not like the prospect of facing up to that strike force. With Theo, The Ox and Gervinho to support them, the goal-scoring burden on Robin will be finally sorted.

That raises another question, will he stay or be sold? We will have to wait and see what decision Robin takes. He has a handsome contract waiting on his signature though he can get more at Manchester City or Real Madrid. He risks loosing the respect and love of fans who have idolized him.

Hotshot

If he leaves, as expected, there will be a star waiting on the wings to make a name for himself in the Premier League.

Giroud is a lifelong fan of the Premier League and admits he cannot wait to test himself and try to “create history” with Arsenal.

“For me it’s the best league in the world among the five big countries. That’s why I chose Arsenal and that’s why I dreamt about playing here,” the 6ft 3in striker said.

“Also the environment appeals to me - the fans, the full stadiums, the different mentality here. So I’m happy to be able to discover this league.

“It’s about the fervour around football here. The [supporters] come as a family, they’re very passionate, it’s in their blood. They live football, eat football and sleep football. It’s different to France.

“There is a nice sporting challenge as well at Arsenal, and I will play to create history and enjoy myself and give pleasure to the fans. I think that the Premier League corresponds well with me.”

In other news, Arsene Wenger has shifted focus to spanish midfielder Jarvi Martinez as he has doubts over the behaviour of Yann M'Villa as reported yesterday. Martinez is away with Spain at the euros and hasn't seen much action.

M'Vila is 21, so is Francis Coquelin. Emmanuel Frimpong is 20 and all are promising defensive midfielders. I don't see the M'Villa deal happening, Martinez is more of a Wenger signing - not expensive and with no attitude issues.

That's your lot for today, till tomorrow. Feel free to drop your opinions in the comments section.

It's Official - Giroud now a Gunner!

2012-06-26T10:20:00.003+01:00

You can find the full story here.

More later.

Wenger ends M'Vila interest? | Bendtner goes global - Giroud has Medical

2012-06-26T09:52:00.000+01:00

There's not much to talk about without regular football. The papers are rather full of conjured-up stories and rumours to shift their papers. It does seem Arsene Wenger might have ended his long interest in French midfielder Yann M'Villa according to @mattspiro on twitter.

In related news, the ~~greatest~~ player of our time, Nicklas Bendtner is attracting interest from different clubs according to his agent. Bendtner's agent Jesper Lynghus told Denmark newspaper bold.dk:

"The interest is overwhelming, just as it should be after the way Nicklas performed at Euro 2012.

We are getting closer day by day. We are not commenting on individual deals at the moment, but it is fair to say interest in Nicklas is global".

That is good news as far as Arsenal fans are concerned. His sale will free up squad space and his weekly wages of 52k/week.

Another player close to the exit door is Squillaci, who's on the verge of joining newly promoted Ligue 1 side Bastia according to France Football. Good news all around. If the Likes of Park, Vela and Arshavin also goes, that would conclude a good summer for Arsenal. Of course, a midfielder and at least one defender and an experienced keeper also needs to be added to the squad.

Olivier Giroud will likely be unveilved today as an Arsenal player, he was at the training ground yesterday and will have a medical today before signing a 4-year contract.

Spain vs Portugal, #Euro2012 up next. Have a good day.

France and England exit to boost Arsenal preparation for next season

2012-06-25T01:21:00.001+01:00

France got knocked out by Barcelona, sorry Spain as widely expected. What wasn't expected was how awful Les Bleus played. Spain hardly got into 2nd gear through the game. They were content to pass it around knowing full well the opposition were just flat.

Blanc made some questionable calls with his team selection, dropping Alou Diara and Nasri who had been fantastic for them. Probably because of the changing room burst-up between the duo after the Sweden loss. Debuchy, a right back by trade, was pushed up the right side of midfield - to keep Spain at bay - but that didn't work so well as he allowed Jordi Alba a free run to set up Alonso at the far post. Clichy was in no man's land - as usual.

Benzema consistently gave away the ball and looked uninterested. Ribery, was his usual self - selfish. The French version of Arjen Robben. M'Vila looked tidy on the ball - nothing extraordinary. He has a good pass on him and sits quite deep. His discipline will be an asset if Wenger presses ahead with a bid as expected.
Koscielny didn't look out of place on the international stage. He chipped in with a couple of tackles and blocks. Kept Torres quiet when he came on.

I was really glad France got beat - for selfish reasons. Arsene Wenger can now conclude the signing of Giroud and possibly Yann 'the man' M'Vila.

The England vs Italy game was lively for 25 minutes, before it became a one way traffic. It was the Andrea Pirlo show. The legendary schemer played with such elegance and poise that was a joy to behold. Play-making from deep has been made an art by Pirlo.

England were poor and lethargic. It's shocking when top Premier League players can't string ten passes together. Luck can only take you so far in a tournament. England were found out at last. They kept a solid shape and played on the counter. Italy could have scored at least three in normal time were it not for Mario Balloteli's wastefulness. De Rossi did hit the post with a delicious left-footed volley.


Gunner Power

Penalties are a game for the strong spirited and i wasn't surprised England lost. Roy Hodgson can now build for the future. But i don't see any future in this Three Lions team with the likes of Milner, Carrol, Parker and Henderson.

Hopefully, The Ox and Theo will be rested enough before the Arsenal pre-season tour of Asia. Looking forward to some exciting Arsenal news in the new week.