Arsenal’s midfield isn’t at its strongest right now without Martin Odegaard, who, according to speculation, may not return until December. An intriguing midfield debate that could potentially polarize the Gooners has surfaced.
Mikel Merino, injured in his first Arsenal training session, finally made his long-awaited return from injury just before the international break. The summer signing performed admirably against PSG and Southampton; despite lacking match fitness, he was flashing with brilliance. The plan has always been for Rice, who has been playing at LCM, to drop to the #6 position, with Merino taking over at LCM. But if that’s the case, what would happen to Thomas Partey?
Given the way the Ghanaian international has been performing as Arsenal’s #6, he should be “undroppable”. As much as many expected a Partey versus Rice struggle for a starting position, it could end up being a Merino versus Rice battle for the #8 spot.
Rice was a standout for England in their 3-0 victory over Finland. Notably, Rice performed admirably as #8, completing 77/80 passes (96%), winning three duels, and scoring a confidence-boosting goal. With five goals for the Three Lions, he surpassed Foden in England’s goal total.
Undoubtedly, Rice’s improvement as a #8 has Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta in a tricky situation as he may have to make a difficult decision between Merino and Rice for LCM.
Well, Arteta will need to be creative in his midfield strategy; it’s important to stick to a successful formula, and Partey has proven to be just that. Rice and Merino should vie for the LCM position, but the absence of Odegaard should lead to Rice’s deployment as the RCM.
There, he could consistently overlap Saka and cross with his right foot, a move that would be truly explosive. A Partey, Merino, and Rice midfield combination would undoubtedly be overwhelming for opponents.
What do your think?
Daniel O
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Arsenal could be even stronger after the International break, with the inclusion of the Spaniard, I wouldn’t edge my bet against it
I love the idea but can’t see it happening at least as a starting 11. Arteta likes to play partey out of position as a IRB, I suspect that’s where he will go for a few games or/and be used as rotation in midfield.
A good midfield against midtable clubs where we could dominate possession.
However against top sides the lack of pace and no creative player could be trouble.
Odegaard doesn’t have blazing speed, but his creativity is a level above in our team. Even moreso when having Rice and Partey backing him up.
It is a good headache to have, and we have 3 players to rotate in 2 midfield spots; perfect IMO. Trossard can fill in for Odegaard and Nwanarei can get sub minutes while he continues to develop.
A good problem to have for a change, compared to our injury concerns.
Knowing Partey’s past injury history, he should not be undroppable. If anything,letting him rest in some matches could enable him stay healthy for the entirety of the season. Rice has played a lot as well for Arsenal and England over the past year. His minutes need to be managed. It’s not about who is starting and who is not. It’s about ensuring the job gets done no matter who starts. The same applies to White/Timber.