I woke up this morning with the chant of “Aubameyang” still resonating in my head. This began to move from the silence of my mind into audible song – to the irritation of my better half who was still trying to sleep. I had some sympathy for the Charlton fan who may soon have to deal with a situation like that of Bury fans.
However, this small semblance of a conscience soon buried itself as I began scrolling through my feed. The #RawReactions Show which followed the 2-1 victory over Chelsea was one of celebration, justification and relief. I finished the show and felt as though all the painful debates over our Spanish coach, Swiss midfielder and long-serving right-back had been worth it.
The Transformation
Arteta has achieved nothing short of what can only be described as a small miracle. The situation in which he took over the squad was easily the worst team to take to the field in my lifetime. Disorganised, lacking in coherence and seemingly no light at the end of what was becoming a very dark tunnel.
The most notable transformation I have witnessed is in the squad’s mentality. Yes, there has been improvements in defence and individual performances, but the overall spirit and togetherness of the team is akin to that of the golden era of Wenger’s reign.
The players, who not only respect their new coach, appear to be willing to lay themselves on the line for the benefit of future achievements, progress and, most importantly, the people like you and me who love this club.
The Fallen Captain Rises
Granit Xhaka displayed the character and fight of a man changed. The Crystal Palace explosion which led to the Swiss midfielder losing the captaincy and alienating himself from the club has returned defiant.
At the time, I too was one of a chorus of voices who called for him to never play for the club again. Football fans are such a reactionary bunch. But the season has made me learn to know that being wrong is a completely natural thing to happen. Sometimes the pride of our own opinions and faith in what we think is right can blind us to what is truly correct.
Xhaka took responsibility for his actions, worked hard and won faith in his new coach. He has been integral to the construction of Arteta’s XI and his absence leaves the team bereft of organization, connection and leadership.
Injury to Ecstasy
Finally, Hector Bellerin. The preview show for the final had me select the Spaniard at right-wing-back and it is fair to say the response was not a positive one. “Hector is done.” “He offers us nothing.” Just a small selection of the scathing criticism from fans who feel Arsenal should be looking ahead without the inclusion of the 25-year-old.
It would be hypocritical of me to not mention my own doubts especially since the restart of the game. The Spaniard did look as if his offerings had dried up but I had the feeling he might just provide that key offensive moment and so I included him in my desired squad.
The run which led to Aubameyang and Arsenal’s second was awesome. Reminding me of the run he made against Brentford in a pre-project restart friendly. The video the Spaniard uploaded after the game depicted the long journey from horrific injury to cup winner and did tug at a couple heartstrings.
Always Forward
Arsenal’s victory qualifies them for the Europa League and guarantees further financial backing for a summer which could easily be described as the club’s most important of its modern history. The fans have witnessed Arteta turn a club around and galvanise hope within its followers. To simply ponder what our leader could achieve if provided the resources to thrive fills me with raw excitement.
What a win and as always, UP THE ARSENAL!
Beautiful with amazing flow. Since i was introduced to you, i have unbiased view of wbat commentary and analysis entails. Thank you Tom.
Thank you!
We should have a like button for many of the pieces on the website!
This is another great article.
I’d like to see Mainsley and Emi get new deals amongst all the other stuff that needs doing.
I wish we could. I’ll look into it.