After the hangover….
I am of course upset with the way Wenger has conducted business this summer, but it seems he can ‘make-up’ for it now. My opinion of him will not change though, as its only through a performance will you hear me say that he is any good. There are reports that we have signed Mertersacker from Bremen. If so, then the German is a quality addition to the squad, and in my opinion is 1 signing which should have been done the day the window opened.
He is not the only rumoured additon though. It is also widely reported that Andre Santos will be arriving at London tomorrow for a medical at the club.
I have always harped on the defensive segment of the club, and have always stressed on the manager fixing this problem. He ignored it, and this is evident from the numbers. Last season it was 43 from 38, now it’s 10 from 3. Now I know may Gooners will be quick to point out the fact that the defense is not to blamed for certain goals, but how about the rest. For example even if we take into consideration that Young’s brace and Rooney’s free-kicks were outstanding and not avoidable, even then the others were down-right cheap to concede. Welbeck first goal is what I do to my cousin in Fifa, and Parks and Nani were practice shots. We conceded an own goal against Liverpool, but that would have never happened if not for the naivety of Frimpong and Miguel. In the 6 yard box, who tries to loft the ball when you should smash it to Highbury !
It’s not that this team does not have potential, I know it does but the fact is that we cannot play a team ‘full of potential’ and expect it every time to click. This was prevalent on Sunday, and also last week. Football is based on small incidents, and to field a young immature side is just asking for mistakes to happen.
2 out of 3 red cards this season are from our youngsters. Moreover, none of them are even controversial. Arsenal is a classy club, but to field sides like the ones we are fielding and expecting to win is just impertinence to both our opponent and fans.
I saw the goals against United and I must say it was excruciating. Not because we conceded, that was bound to happen. But it was the manner of the conceding which pricked my nerves-especially the ones by Nani and Park.
I have not mentioned this before although I feel I should. Nasri said a few days ago that Arsenal fans are not passionate. How ironical is it, that the same city he said it in was the same city in which he was shut-up. It was a drubbing at Old Trafford, indeed it was, but for those 3000 Gooners who sang ” I love you Arsenal,” my hats off to you. That is passion, and that is impeccable.
Hold your hats Gooners, it going to get bumpy….
PS : We have our own Ji Sung Park !
A Club in Ruins…..
I will not look for any excuses, as far as this game is concerned. I know what happened at OT, and I know fully why. When you see that your team consists of players like Jenkinson and what’s his name Francis Coquelin against the likes of Manchester United, it hurts. And that too, when the situation could so easily have been avoided.
Nasri stated a few days back that when he came back he made it very clear to Wenger that he wanted to leave. This was in July. So why not place a bid for Hazard then. Of course he won’t come now, look at us. Lille are a good club but even they would find it hard to refuse a 30 million quid offer, which can be negotiated further (another month, even if you work 4 days in a week)
As soon as the season ended last season, one thing was sure. Fabregas was going to leave. Juan Mata was an option, and the club did consider it. Of course, before pulling the breaks because of the wage issue. And then what happened? He caught the tube to Fulham Broadway. Valencia got what they wanted and he did too. Period…I accepted it.
He signed Gervinho, sold Fabregas. I mean they don’t even play in the same position. If you sold Arshavin and bought Gervinho, it still ok, because it is an identical swap. And please don’t say Nasri is a winger, he has been turned into one. He signed Miyachi, and Chamberlain. Both wingers, but with no experience. Nasri goes, and Chamberlain comes in. Tell me do you spot the ‘small’ difference in quality….I accepted it.
People say that Mourinho is arrogant. Well, firstly let me make something clear. Jose Mourinho is definitely arrogant… But that is the childish arrogance. It never hurts you, because he is ready to change when it matters the most. Wenger is an egotist, and he is stubborn. He says he is not stubborn, but he is. The man has no excuse for not signing a defender. Absolutely no excuse. He has had 3 months to plan what to do with Arsenal and I waited for 3 fucking months. And For what? This…
This is the truth:
He identified a target i.e. Cahill and he waited. He waited and he stalled, as he thought that the Bolton would sell him for less. And what happened? Bolton called his bluff, and showed him the bird.
Have you noticed something? Do you hear the “No trophies” for 6 years within the media these days? NO, you don’t. You actually don’t. It was a monkey on our back that we had to get rid of. But things went one step better, it left us. The fucking monkey left us. Nobody takes Arsenal seriously, and as an Arsenal fan it hurts really badly.
It’s funny when you think of it. Trust me it is.
Some fans think that others are ‘plastic’ fans that we do not care about the club as much as others. Hmmmm….so let me make this into an equation. You are a TRUE Arsenal fan if you always accept your teams performance, no matter how ‘off-beat’ it is.
For if you don’t, EVEN if you pay ‘your’ precious money to buy one of the most expensive tickets in England, support your team in the stadium, wave banners, sing songs AND ‘dislike’ the performance of your team you are a plastic fan. You are NOT a TRUE Arsenal supporter because you are not FOR the team.
Or is it FOR Wenger. Now this is definitely a very debatable topic, but the fact if the matter is that it is true.
If you are not FOR Wenger you are a plastic Gooner. How many times have you insulted Wenger just too see a bloke insult you back.
Well, let me clarify something. If a person expresses his opinion about the manager, who he feels is wrong, HE IS NOT A PLASTIC GOONER. And even if he is, then that guy should be proud because he has the balls to HAVE and VOICE his opinion.
A friend of mine said this to me: “Thank God United were wearing condoms otherwise we would be pregnant.” Another one said: “I thought it was the 82nd min, until I noticed the hyphen.” This is the fucking reaction of my mates. I am so frustrated at Wenger right now that depression may just cause me to suicide. In terms of tactics, he is so naive that it astonishes me as to how this man made an invincible team.
Of course Vermaelen was going to get injured sometime in the season. And Gibbs, he has an injured tattoo labelled on his forehead. A player who is injured for most of last season is suddenly expected to make a drastic change and play majority games this season. He fucking played 7 games last season and now is expected to turn it to a 37. You know what’s worse. This was evitable and this has come true. It does not take a fucking degree to formulate this, and yet Wenger just chooses to blatantly ignore it. It is a fucking disgrace.
There is a thick coat of mis-management right through that football club- from the fucking middle. The Board don’t have the balls to see it, and our owner will keep silent, because Wenger is the BOSS.
I have had enough of Arsenal this season, ENOUGH. Thank God I have a week off to recover, although I doubt I will. This situation could so easily have been avoided by Wenger, but one must learn how to fuck it up from him. A class act, a class act indeed…
No Match report : Manchester UnitedUnited 8-2 Arsenal FC…(a good performance from the groundsmen)
I am sorry but no report shall be posted today, in light of what has happened at Manchester. 3 games and 3 red cards, and conceding 8 goals. Its good to see that the quote ‘Life is Harsh’ actually has a meaning…
As for the manager…since I am speechless, I shall express it in words.
Fuck Arsene. A manager who does not adhere to the fans love for a club does not deserve my support. Keep the damn money in your wallet, and DON’T SPEND, DON’T SPEND YOU FUCK.
Do not expect match ratings, cause I can give everybody a 4 for showing up. As for the manager, you are NOT WORTH RATING ON..
Good–day tomorrow Gooners (Best of Luck, if you know what I mean)
DKD
The Preview : Manchester United vs Arsenal FC
If there was ever a time to play Manchester United, it certainly isn’t this one. United boast an undefeated record at Old Trafford, and last season they drew only 1 game there. They have new recruits this season in Young and David De Gea. And at the same time boast a young squad, in terms of players like Welbeck and Cleverley, who if I may add were the reason for their first home goal of the season. I know there have been issues surrounding United new GK De Gea, but if we try and pay attention to that the games is already lost for us. Spurs from where they were shooting showed no respect for De Gea, and I hope we learned something because I DO NOT expect the same from us.
We will be without Gervinho and Song, who resume their suspension this week. Add to that Frimpong. Traore came on against Udinese, and may feature. Kosher should return.
Probable Line-up :
It would be foolish to play Ramsey as as CDM, so I think DJ should suffice. Moreover, if Sagna does want to go forward, DJ can provide adequate cover. Its going to get to be tough to beat the champions, but if there ever is a time to rock Manchester, its now…
THE ARMOURY
MATCH RATINGS : Udinese Calcio vs Arsenal FC
I am sorry I posted the match rating after a few days. I needed to get over the win, so I delayed this one.
Szczesny- Brilliant. MOTM. Fantastic penalty save which ensured our qualification and it was at crucial time as well because we had just scored minutes before. Excellent save in the first half as well. Could do nothing against the 1st goal, it was fabulous. Did everything else right. Hope he keeps it up….10
Carl – Good performance given the pressure he was under. Should have covered the right-wing better. Needs to clear better though I am sure we shall be seeing his rapid progress. I know I am a bit harsh on him, but he can step it up to Sagna’s level, and that is what I want….8
DJ- Should have marked Di Natalie better . Did the basics right. Needs to be more aware but overall a decent performance…..6.5
Vermaelen – Consistent as always. Gave away a penalty though it looked a harsh call. 7.5
Sagna- Adjusted to the left-wing without much difficulty though most of Udinese ‘s attacks were from the left. Stuck to his task and was the unsung hero again. Shouldn’t cross with his left foot though. 7.5
Frimpong- His inexperience showed as he left Sagna exposed too many times. Passing was ok. Subbed of after the first half for Rosicky…..5.5
Song – Excellent in possession. Some great tackles as well. We will miss him at OT on Sunday…7.5
Ramsey – Nothing special. Was tidy in possession. Got better as the game progressed . 6
Walcott- Missed a gilt edged opportunity in the first half hitting a perfectly laid off ball straight into the keeper. Scored a brilliant goal in the second half and was clearly annoying the Udinese defence….7
Gervinho- He is non-existent when it comes to defending but is brilliant going forward. Our most potent threat going forward. Fantastic in one v one situations buts needs to shoot more and dribble less. Made a fantastic chance for us which Walcott missed and created our first goal with a ‘sweet’ bit of skill to beat his man and feed RVP.8
RVP- Our captain looked calm in possession. Lead by example and didn’t panic when the going got tough. Cool finish to get us the equaliser….7
Substitutes-
Traore- Missed an opportunity to score when the ball rebounded off Handanovic after a fierce shot by RVP… N\A
Arshavin-N\A
Rosicky- Made some brilliant tackles to win possession back and some clever passes as well….7
THE ARMOURY
Snap back to reality/ Nasri you have no shame…
It was a much needed win for us against Udinese, and didn’t the Old Arsenal show up. You see, the reason for my happiness is simple. I was happy because the team yesterday showed that they can come back under difficult circumstances. With a young side, we were 1-0 down, tied on aggregate, away, at Italy, and we came back to win 1-2. Take a deep breath and re-read what I wrote, may be then you will see the importance of our performance, that is if you doubt it.
SNAP BACK TO REALITY
As I had written earlier, I was disappointed with the team in the first half. They showed alot of excitement for the first 10 mins before they were forced to calm down. Maintaining focus was crucial in such a match, and we did lose our focus numerous times. Udinese hit the post, and the defense was split open more than once.
It worries me that as an attacking force we forget to ensure proper cover for our defense. Carl Jenkinson was ‘decent’ as an attacking threat but at the same time our weak point in the defense. The right back slot was continuously under pressure from Udinese, and the intensity especially increased when the youngster went up, lost possession and did not track back in time. I remember once in the first half when it became a 3 on 2 CBs scenario. Thankfully Sagna at LB covered us otherwise, who knows what could have happened.
He is young and I am aware of that. But the point is that he needs to learn slowly, not at such a expeditious rate. If we had a left back Jenkinson would have never started. Rather, he would be brought on to replace Sagna in every game. He was bought as a back-up for Sagna, who in my opinion is a great RB. But due to a lack of signings we play him(Bacary) at LB, and use him ineffectively.
I still remain dubious about our defense. You see, today it was Udinese, so we made it through. Tomorrow when we face United, Jenkinson will be facing the likes of Young and Nani. Do you think he can afford to botch up then ?
Among the one thing I found common in the comment section of my last-to-last post is that people ARE STILL looking to Wenger to sign players. I am happy that Gooners didn’t get carried away too much by the result of one game. Yes, even I was happy but one should never get himself carried away due to one result.
Anyway, what is done is done, so let’s forget about it.
Let’s talk about something else. Ahh yes, that French bloke Samir Nasri. I liked Nasri, that is until yesterday. You see it does not upset me that he has signed for City. Well, not as much as what Samir said about us.
“I have heard people say I have moved for money. I make a good living at City, that is true, but I am 24 years old and I have reached a turning point in my career and it was important that I joined a club with ambition.
“I believe I have more chance of winning titles at Manchester City than at Arsenal.”
Nasri added: “When did I make my decision? Early in July, when we returned for pre-season. I told the coach (Arsene Wenger) that I wanted to leave.
“Is it a risk joining Manchester City? You have to take risks in life. I am not afraid to do so.
“There is a big squad here but competition is good, it makes you push yourself and stops you from becoming stale.
“Was that the case at Arsenal? Maybe.”
As an Arsenal fan, would you want to hear this from a player who you cheered on last season. By the last lines of his comments, he has showed dis-respect to fans, and more importantly dis-respect to his team-mates. He played with these people through-out last season, and in 2 days, after 1 flight he has started to imply that they were not good enough. If he was asked about the risk situation at City, he could have said what he said without the last line. But he chose not to….Bastard !
Nasri was one of my Favourite Gunners, but now he is a Citizen of Manchester, so fuck you, you piece of horse shit.
Speaking of Manchester, we travel there this Sunday. The champions at OT. Our record at OT is not one to boast of, and what makes matter worst is that we start the match with one man down. Why ?
Howard Webb is the referee.
Will be out with the preview soon Gooners.
THE ARMOURY
Champions League Group Stage Draw 2011-2012
This is our Group stage scenario in the champions league :
Group A :
Bayern Munich
Villarreal
Manchester City
Napoli
Group B:
Inter Milan
CSKA Moscow
Lille
Trabzonspor
Group C:
Manchester Utd
Benfica
Basel
Otelul Galati
Group D:
Real Madrid
Lyon
Ajax
Dinamo Zagreb
Group E:
Chelsea
Valencia
Bayern Leverkusen
Genk
Group F:
ARSENAL
Marseille
Olympiakos
Borussia Dortmund
Group G:
FC Porto
Shakhtar Donetsk
Zenit
Apoel FC
I am delighted….
THE ARMOURY
What you need to know : Udinese 1-2 Arsenal FC
Arsenal came back from a goal down to book their spot in the group stage champions league this season. Overall, the team really played well, especially if you consider the fact that we were trailing Natale’s goal at half time.
The half began brightly for us. With 2 mins on the clock, Theo got the game going with a straight shot to Handanovic.
On 10, Handanovic was again given a wake up call. This time it was Gervinho who tested the goalie from a tight angle. It was good to see an Arsenal player shoot for a change.
On 16, Udinese suddenly broke loose with Di Natale producing a surprise cross from the right. Thankfully Pablo Armero screwed up his header.
From that time on, our attacks dried up, and the enthusiasm with which we started the match declined.
On 22, Udinese came close to a goal when Natale hit the post.
On 28, Sagna made his way to the left side of the D-box, and HAD a chance to shoot, but as usual he chose to pass it.
1 minute later, RVP let one loose with his right foot. Why?
On 31, Gervinho made a brilliant run towards the Udinese defense before setting up Theo to slot the ball into the net. Theo did take the shot, but it was blocked by Handanovic. Immediately the rebound was picked up by RVP who now let a left foot drive loose, but somehow AGAIN Handanovic kept it out. Seconds later, at the other end Szczesny pulled out a smart save to keep Natale out.
On 38, Udinese took the lead. What a header from Di Natale, what a header ! Leave a striker, with so much space, and see what he can do. This guy warned us about his talent at the Emirates, and I thought he would be marked. God, how wrong could I be ?
4 mins later, the Arsenal defense was again split. Fortunately for us Armeros shot rose over Szczesny’s bar.
It was a mixed first half. We started the half brightly, but ended it very nervously. I did not expect the enthusiasm and the livelihood to carry on through-out the half, and was right. A bright start saw us pressurize Udinese, we did not allow them time on the ball, and the only option they had was to counter-attack. But gradually as the half wore on, we lost our focus allowing our opponents to come back into the game.
On 51, RVP floated in a delightful free-kick, but DJ’s header was just a second slower. It only needed a touch. 1 minute later, Theo bend one into Handanovic’s hands.
On 54, we equalised. Gervinho with a brilliant piece of skill, before rolling it for RVP to smash in. And didn’t our no 10 oblige. It was 1-1 at Udine.
However 4 mins later, Udinese were given a lifeline as the referee awarded them penalty due to a handball by Vermaelen. Di Natale stepped up, but he couldn’t get past the Pole. What a save by Szczesny. Bloody brilliant !
On 68, we took the lead. It was a brilliant move – A good little 1-2 from Theo and Sagna let the former loose on goal. Handanovic was truly helpless for this one. Udinese 1-2 Arsenal
On 77, the ‘weakness in awareness’ of the Arsenal back 4 could be seen, as an unmarked Di Natale found himself with acres of space on the right. Thankfully, the Italians shot was wide.
When we entered the last 10 mins, the showboating began (RVP started it, with a rabona). To be honest, it looked like Udinese had given up. They were not trying and we too took our leg of the acclerator.
On 90, both RVP and Traore took shots at Handanovic but the goalie did well to block them both.
It was a smart change by AW at half time. Rosicky would not only provide us some experience but also constitute an attacking force. Moreover, Song would have to sit back and defend, and not take his USUAL SHOTS.
For the first time in months do I feel happy and optimistic about Arsenal. The team showed real character to come back and win and personally I am delighted.
Tomorrow is a our draw in Monaco, pray we GET Barcelona.
What does ‘this’ make you think about Arsene Wenger ?
This is going to be my shortest post, and yet the I feel the strongest one.
After an ENTIRE SUMMER, in which we lost 2 crucial first team players – Nasri And Cesc, I would like to show the AKB and all gooners around the world what the manager had said a while back.
“Samir’s situation is clear for me,” Wenger said. “He stays. We are in a [financial] position where we can say ‘No’ and we will, in the case of Samir. It is in the interests of the club. Imagine the worst situation, that we lose Fabregas and Nasri; you cannot convince people that you are ambitious after that.”
Ambition and Arsenal ‘look’ so good together doesn’t it ?
Thats all for today folks…
THE ARMOURY
The Preview : Udinese vs Arsenal FC/ Are we a top 4 team ? :
I am going to be honest here. If it was any other team I would not be bothered, and I would still have faith in this young Arsenal side. But after watching Udinese’s performance against us I have to admit we MAY NOT be playing champions league football this season.
We come off a Liverpool defeat which is very hard to take. And now we face an Italian team (which had more than 1 chance of scoring against us in London) at a ground in which they have had 4 losses last season 2 of which have been against Juventus and Roma.
I have heard about a few rumours circulating that if we do qualify for the champions league a few signings will be finalised. And that these deals are on stall because of the uncertainty over the fact whether Arsenal will play in the champions league or not.
If this is true then we surely tomorrow will be the biggest game of our ‘eventful’ season.
Gervinho is back for this match and so is Song. If Nasri starts, then I am sure he will not be going to City.
Probable line-up :
Udinese will NOT be an easy team to beat. Moreover the conditions under which we are facing them are also quite arduous. I saw the first game at the Emirates and lets face it – It was pretty ugly. As I said before the side looked drained of ideas, and our midfield was getting dominated by Natale and Co.
Now I know many Gooners who just refuse to believe that we WON”T qualify for the UCL, but the fact of the matter is that there is a possibilty that this may happen. And, if this does happen, I can’t wait for the post match interview of our boss. Oh, wait…isn’t he banned ?
Europa League/ Facts that hurt
Written By : Sid the Sloth
As Gooners it’s high time we face facts. We are no longer a team which fights for the title, it was an elephant in the room for most of last season and the last few months of the season simply reinforced that.
I am not being overly negative, but it is simple fact. We for various reasons WONT’ buy or rather pay “over the odds” for players according to the manager. So, to cut a long story short, what this means is that in an overly inflated transfer market where mediocre players at best are going for ridiculous prices (except if we are selling of course) we will have to stick with our youngsters and hope that they step up.
Now at this point many of you will begin chants of “Wenger out”, and my response to that would be — then what ? Thats the hard bit, a change will not automatically mean trophies. Chelsea with Torres (4 Gervinho’s and 1 Koscielny in terms of transfer fees) had to struggle to beat a West Brom side, which if I may add is worth less than what City is willing to pay us for Nasri. Last year Chelsea spent 50 million on Torres, and God knows how much more. And after all that, all that spending can you spot a difference between their and our trophy cabinet for the 2010-2011 season.
Liverpool had only a couple of shots on target (before the red card) against our defense which comprised of two teenagers making their debuts and our right back playing at left back. Moreover, this make-shift back 4 was aided by another youngster playing as CDM and making his debut.So to put this in persepctive – After spending over £100 last year did they score 2 against us, that too both goals coming when we were 1 man down.
If Wenger were to leave there is no guarantee that we would be any better off, but without his talent at bringing forth young talent we might as well be a Bolton Wanderers.
In my opinion the only light in the tunnel is that after the financial fair play rules come into practice next year and depending on how well Blatter and his Fifa implement them do we have a fighting chance. Personally, I have a feeling that Wenger is simply trying to weather the storm before these rules come into play.
Now getting back to the title of the article, we have to face the fact that we will go nowhere in the champions league. At most, I can see us reaching the quarter finals, that too with the aid of lenient fixtures. However, the Europa league is a completely another story. It is a trophy we can realistically challenge for and it would give us the opportunity to rebuild some confidence after the initial shock of being forced into the Europa league is over of course.
For example, the FC Barcelona of the Euro league would be a team like Udinese and we’ve shown we can beat them with a ‘bare-bones’ team, well over one leg at least. And if we were to somehow actually win the Europa league, it would surely be a turning point just as Liverpool seemingly bounced back from the brink of becoming a Newcastle or God forbid a Leeds United.
Yes, the champions league has its advantages and more so compared to the Europa League.
I picked this up from Wikipedia, to make a quick comparison.
For reaching the group stage, UEFA awards €3.9 million, plus €550,000 per group match played. A win in the group is awarded €800,000 and a draw is worth €400,000.
A group stage participation in the Europa League nets €640,000, with a €60,000 bonus per group match played. In addition, a victory in the group pays €140,000 and a draw €70,000
UEFA pays teams reaching the first knockout round €3 million, each quarter finalist €3.3 million, €4.2 million for each semi-finalist, €5.6 million for the runners-up and €9 million for the winners.
Reaching the knock-out matches triggers additional bonuses: €200,000 for the round of 32, €300,000 for the round of 16, €400,000 for the quarterfinals and €700,000 for the semi-finals. The losing finalists receive €2 million and the champions get €3 million.
In comparison, any team that reaches the UEFA Champions’ League group stage will be paid €3.9 million.
Ideally we SHOULD never be in this situation and I would much rather we play Champions league football this year. But as Wenger said, it’s not all “doom and gloom” if we were to lose come Wednesday night.
Sure, it would mean we don’t see Arsenal in the league of Europe’s ELite, but everything does happen for a reason. Well, atleast lets hope it does.
10 days routine/ Vermaelen predicts the future
I have had some time to calm down after what happened at the Emirates, and right now, it really feels very depressing. As I have said before, and by that I mean in my Match report, the problems for Arsenal Football Club stretch beyond the field. We now have 10 days left for the transfer window to close, and whatever happens in these 10 days on the transfer front of Arsenal Football Club, will, indeed decide the 2010-2011 season.
It is true that the manager has already come out and said that he is ready to spend if there is someone who is worth spending on. Based on this line of thought, I think we need to chalk out what exactly we require. I have heard from a few people that Squillaci’s involvement this season will be minimal, but I am not sure how true this is. So, I cannot include that in this ‘thesis’. I can however, conceive some things the manager SHOULD do in these 240 hours.
Firstly, he has to fill the gap in the midfield. It is wrong to put so much pressure on Ramsey. And in this case Wenger is being a real hypocrite. If Ramsey being so young is allowed to start against Liverpool why ALTEAST can he not bring on Ryo, or even Chamberlain on for Theo and Arshavin, or even one of them. He may feel that they are not ready yet, but do you think Ramsey is ready to lead Arsenal midfield in the premier league and the champions league (if we do play in it). In FC Barcelona the burden of the midfield is shared between 3 players. Xavi, Iniesta and Mascherano/Busquets. But in Arsenal too much pressure is put on Ramsey, cause let’s face it Song is a CDM and can’t shoot for anything, let alone peanuts. Now, please don’t include names like Rosicky here. He is a Mozart who’s violin has been smashed, and he never steps up when we require him too. Rosicky can be played in the FA Cup or the Carling Cup, and as a sub for league games but unless he steps up to a his former 2004 level, he is just utilising another players place.
On the attacking front we have 3 strikers. One is world class but the other 2 are just ‘class.’ But we do not have to worry alot on this front because of the wingers we have and the ability of our new signings to play in the centre i.e. Gervinho and Campbell.
As for the defense, Vermaelen performance against Liverpool was magnificent and for me yesterday he smashed whoever came in front of him. Be it Carroll, or Suarez. Kosher got injured, but upto now what I have seen of both of them has convinced me of their quality, which if I may add, is Arsenal standard. Yes, Per Mertersacker is a juicy buy when the ‘tower’ is just available for 6 million, BUT it would not mean the an apocalypse if we do not get him. Don’t get me wrong, I want him very badly, but it’s just that I feel the defense may be addressed after the midfield.
Wenger has to understand that everything done for a considerable amount of time becomes a habit, and if the team goes on the way it is going losing will just become a habit for the players. Look at Vermaelen in the picture, that is the Thomas Vermaelen of the present seeing the ‘Arsenal of the future’ if nothing is done in the present. Look at the mans reaction, his hands are covering his mouth !
Now picture, millions of Arsenal fans in the same way. That is what is going to happen if the manager doesn’t step up. Its time Arsene, its time.
You have asked me to trust you. Forget me, you have asked ‘us’ to trust you. I do, now show me why I should, please, I beg of you…
What you need to know : Arsenal FC 0-2 Liverpool FC
Arsenal lost their first points this season as they stumbled to a 0-2 defeat to Liverpool at the Emirates. We were 10 men down when we conceded both goals but a win is a win even if it is ‘unlucky.’
On 8, Frimpong got an early yellow card. The youngster has to be cautious for the rest of the game.
On 16, the Kosher was taken of for Ignasi due to an injury to the French-man. After that we were being dominated for sometime. And that was bound to happen looking at the nature of our squad.
On 28, we almost had our chance to score when an aimless ground cross from Arshavin found itself rolling across the face of Reina’s goal only for no one to smash it in.
Frimpong 2 mins later, suddenly woke up. Running through the middle of the filed towards Reina he fired a shot forcing the spaniard to make a very good save. Well, atleast these youngsters shoot.
On 35, Nasri showed us his old self as he made a breath-taking run from infront of the Arsenal D-box towards Reina before firing a shot ‘just’ wide of the post.
It was a balanced first half, with Arsenal finishing of stronger. I cannot blame the team for their midfield being dominated. I guess you ca figure out yourself why ?
On 67, RVP should have finished off a ground pass from Arahavin after he manhandled Carragher in the D-box.
3 mins later, we were brought down to 10 men as Frimpong fouled Lucas. 2 games, and 2 red-cards, what a start to the season !
On 76, Vermaelen tried a Nasri as swarmed forward before lashing out a left foot drive wide of the post.
Indeed it was “Game set and match for Liverpool to win.”
And having said the above line, 2 mins later, we conceded. From Ignasi off Ramsey into Szczesny’s net. It was a sweet ‘own goal’ to gift…1 nil to Liverpool.
Carl Jenkinson began limping at the end of the match but the youngster continued. Well, he had too. Can you imagine 9 vs 11 ?
On 90, Suarez bagged another goal, as he rolled the ball into an empty net. (Do read the the first four words of the bold quote above)
As I said before after the red card decided this match and indeed it did. You can make what you wish of this match, but indeed this season looks gloomy ahead.
Yes, I understand the circumstances in which this game was lost, and as a blogger I will not harp on what occured in the match. The only issue for me is that the club right now needs their manager to step up and he by the looks of it is not going to. The problems for Arsenal football Club stretch far beyond the field, and the sooner this incompetent board of ‘Yes Men’ realise it, the better.
Guns-out,
THE ARMOURY
The Preview : Arsenal FC vs Liverpool FC
Arsenal take on Liverpool in what will be our first match at the Emirates this season. Since our manager believes there is no one in the market, therefore we will be fielding a very young side this Saturday. The injury table resumes its normal duties of carrying players and this week we have another 4 additions. DJ, Gibbs, Traore (loaned) and Rosicky. All except DJ are major doubts. Rosicky may still play though.
Among those who can play and are fit i.e Gervinho and Alex Song, will start their 3 match bans.
RVP will presume his role as captain and this will be his first premier league match as Arsenal captain. He will start as the lone strike. Beside him will be Theo and Alex. Our defense should be Vermaelen, Kosher, Sagna most probably Jenkinson. And although I know he may get killed against Kuyt or Downing, we have ‘no other option because there is no one there to buy.’
Since Song is absent, Frimpong will probably take his place a CDM. Ramsey will play ahead of him as CAM, most likely alongside Arshavin.
Nasri will most probably not play against Liverpool as he finalises his deal with City.
Its is going to be a very difficult game for us, as already we have played Udinese on tuesday. Liverpool are a new side, and having spent over 30 million in the transfer window will be difficult to beat. Last season’s game saw a cracking finish as we drew 1-1 with the Kop.
Guns-out,
THE ARMOURY
What you need to know : Arsenal FC 1-0 Udinese
Arsenal have 1 foot in the champions league as they scrambled to a 1-0 victory over Italian Giants Udinese. It was not a well deserved victory, but rather an ugly one.
On 4 we took the lead after Ramsey cross from he right fell for Theo to guide in. It was a 4 pass move, starting from Chamakhs haphazard control of the ball and ending with Theo jumping to put the ball in.
After that the usual Arsenal took over, allowing the visitors to slowly climb back into the game. This showed when a superb free-kick from Natale hit the crossbar, almost creeping in to make it all even.
On 25, the Arsenal defense was over exposed as Agyeman with a thunderous sprint ran through the Arsenal midfield and defense, only to be stopped by Szczesny, who to be fare pulled out a decent save to stop from what would have been a very embarrassing goal to concede.
We were piling pressure on Udinese as they had to do a lot to handle Gervinho and Theo from the flanks.
On 36, a good move from Udinese almost so Natale score. Fortunately Szczesny had his post covered.
In this entire half was a good one for us. That being said Udinese do look like a dangerous side, and they can hurt us if we are not careful. We did have a good start but as suspected could not keep it up to that level.
On 49, the above line was proved true when DJ blocked DiNatale’s shot on goal when the latter was in a 1 vs 1 situation.
10 mins later we again survived a scare as Jenkinson was bossed off the ball before a shot dashed past Szczesnys goal.
The 2nd half, upto the 65th min was clearly being bossed by one team, and sadly that wasn’t us. You may ask yourself as an Arsenal fan, how are they not scoring? It’s Deshavu!
Oh, did I mention we used 2 substitutions for 1 player. Colin, you fucking twat.
On 68, Theo got a nice one on one chance, only for the Arsenal no 14 to fuck it up quite nicely. How I wish we had the former no 14! 6 mins later Szczesny pulled out another save from a Natale free-kick.
The Arsenal attack had dried up, the midfield was out of ideas, and the defense was just managing to hold their attack out. Udinese were dominating, we were soaking it up. Not the usual us, eh.
In the last few minutes of the game we did pose some threat and it was then that this Italian side was shook. Gervinho made a brilliant run from the middle before turning inside and slipping the ball to Theo to curl in with his right foot. The latter did oblige but Handanovic pulled out a brilliant save to keep his team in the tie.
The Preview : Udinese vs Arsenal FC
Arsenal host Udinese this week at the Emirates in the first leg of the champions league qualifiers, and to be honest Udinese is one team I hoped we could avoid. Udinese, although having finished 4th in Serie last season are an Italian team that can surprise you. They had a horrible start to their season a year ago, losing 4 consecutive games. Infact they drew their 5th game also. Hence they were without a win for the first 5 games of the Serie. Thats 1 out of 15 points. But then the team began improving and SOMEHOW managed to finish 4th. I know we are favourites to go through but after seeing what happened at Newcastle I have my doubts.
Gervinho should play the UCL qualifiers since he will not be seeing premier league action for sometime. RVP and Nssri are both suspended, due to bans picked up by them last season.
Probable Line-up :
Subs : Luke, Squillaci, Traore, Jenkinson, Rosicky, Chamberlain, Nikko
Rosicky in my opinion, may take Arshavins position. Probably as a precautionary measure, not to over-expose the defense.
Guns-out,
THE ARMOURY
This Sums up Arsenal Football Club….
I know some of you may have heard this song, but a friend of mine sent me this link after yesterdays game. He said this is the situation of Arsenal Football Club, and I have to say : I agree.
Also, the clubs official site posted this yesterday, before quickly taking it down. Apparently, there were goals in yesterdays game…
What you need to know : Newcastle United 0-0 Arsenal FC
Arsenal were held to a 0-0 draw at St. James Park today. Debutant Gervinho saw red as we witnessed a ‘starved Arsenal’ failing to get 3 points.
Our first chance came in the first minute when Rosicky shot went wide of Krul. It took some time to get into our flow of things, but no sooner did we get into that mood than Newcastle broke it up.
On 12, Gervinho almost got to a pass from Arshavin after the latter had made a dashing run down the right.
On 26, we should have gone 1-0 up when Arshavin was put through on goal. It was a 2 vs. 1 situation but the Russian bottled it as he chose to give an early cross to Gervinho rather than taking the ball up himself.
In the 43rd min, we had the second real chance of the game when a delicate chip from Arshavin put RVP through. Unfortunately the Dutchman couldn’t collect it as Krul did without any problem.
It was a dull first half with no real effort to test Krul. As suspected without Fabregas and Nasri this Arsenal team lacked that extra bit of quality. Realistically, we could only look at Van Persie for a solution.
Rosicky took up the CAM role today, but for most parts of the match he drifted away from his position. Vermaelen looked good at the back, and so did Szczesny. As far as Gervinho was concerned the man knows how to get pass a player, but when in front of goal he seems confused whether he should shoot or not. Arshavin constantly swapped flanks with him, and he too hesitated to shoot when in front of goal. It was a clueless performance from a clueless team. Like it or not, we need some quality in this team otherwise Arsenal may be equated to Spurs within a few months.
Newcastle started the second half better than us. They played at a higher tempo and closed us down quite well.
On 52, after some brilliant footwork from Rosicky Gervinho was put through on the right (by the former). The Ivorian should have shot but chose to delay it and in turn threw away the chance.
1 min later RVP’’s free-kick skimmed the roof of the net after Sagna was brought down on the left.
On 63, Krul was tested for the first time as a lovely move from Arsenal ended in Theo shooting straight at Krul.
On 75, debutant Gervinho saw red for a slap on Barton. It was a needless for Barton to get involved. He did, and Gervinho saw red while he saw yellow.
In extra time Newcastle could have got 3 points but Koshers saved our ass via a strong clearance.
PERSPECTIVE :
One of the dullest performances from an Arsenal team in a very long time. Ramsey is creative but to ask him to lead a team is a bit too much in my opinion. Not everybody is a Fabregas you know. The midfield can be compared to a plant starved of water, and no matter how much belief Wenger has he is deluded to believe that this team can win the league. The defense is but one cannot conclude that it won’t. Newcastle did not give much of a fight to be honest, and if this was a team like Manchester United then we would surely get slaughtered.
Guns-out,
THE ARMOURY
The Preview : Newcastle United FC vs Arsenal FC…We need 5 this time !
The season is finally upon us as Arsenal kick-off at St. James Park. Now we all know what happened last year at St. James Park, and its better for any Arsenal fan to forget the incident(s) that took place there. Its been a long summer for us gooners, so personally tomorrow cannot come faster. Most of the squad should travel to Newcastle, however Jack Wilshere will not take part in the ‘season opener’ due to an ankle problem.
Injury News :
RVP, Gibbs, Vermaelen and Theo are all fit. Jack and Diaby however, are not. Cesc will travel, Nasri on the otherhand will go to Manchester.
Probable Line up :
Subs : Luke, Traore, SQ18, Jenkinson, Rosicky, Chamberlain, Chamakh
Thoughts :
I know about the massacre that happened last season, so this time we have to be very careful, especially in the second half. I know the plight of Nasri, and that he is sick. So ideally I prefer Arshavin to play as CAM. He started off his career in that role, and it would be interesting to see how the man would fare up in one of the best leagues in the world.
All players have had a good break, and should be refreshed for this match. I expect a good performance with us getting the required 3 points.
Guns-out,
THE ARMOURY
Nasri seems to have conned us all…
I don’t care if Samir Nasri leaves. Yes, I would definitely have him stay, but if the bloke does choose to leave, it would make no difference to me. Now I completely understand that players, just like us are human beings, and even they need to support themselves and their family. But one very crucial factor here is that the profession that these players dwell in touch the hearts of millions around the world. And therfore they have to be careful about their actions.
It’s quite similar to politics actually. Why? Because in both fields of work, one ‘has’ to make sacrifices….
I have spoken to a few people about Nasri’s contract details and in short this is what I understood. The French-man was offered 90,000 pounds a week from Arsenal, and this was the clubs first offer. Mind you, 90,000 pounds a week is the same amount RVP gets at Arsenal. Nasri was offered this at first, he sat on it, waited and then refused it. After doing that he came out with this statement :
“Money has never been my motivation. I have always taken my decisions from a football point of view,”
“I don’t want to sign for a club where I wouldn’t be playing the football that I like, where I wouldn’t feel happy, just for the sake of money. We already earn huge wages. The priority is to make a big career and to win titles. This is more important than everything else. I know the value and the meaning of money.
“With no titles under your belt, you can’t be in the list for the Ballon D’Or. I came to England to get trophies because I haven’t won anything in my career, apart from an Under-17 European Championship in 2004.
“We all need to get out of our comfort zone to grow up and test ourselves.”
The player gave a lot to the club last season. He, for the first half of the season was not only Arsenal’s star man but also a strong contender for player of the season. Then suddenly after the Carling Cup final, everything began to breakdown for him.
Nasri’s performance as a player started becoming average, and he was no longer the Sam of the earlier part of the 2010-2011 season.
Yes, contracts talks between the player and the club did stall for a while. But, then it again resumed with the club offering the same wages as Cesc Fabregas – 110,000 pounds a week. Rumour had it that Nasri was looking for 120,000 pounds a week.
After a week or so of negotiation and discussions, in short the club told him ‘Fuck you, you French prick, this is the last offer, take it or leave it.’ And gladly Sam-wise said “No.”
The club has shown intent in the transfer market and signed Gervinho, Jenkinson and Chamberlain. And if rumours are suspected to be true, we may get that defender we always wanted after all.
The main problem with this Nasri situation is that the man BELIEVES that with Arsenal he will win NOTHING. He believes that he has given whatever he could in an Arsenal shirt and that it is time to move on. It’s quite easy to understand that the player wants this, once you read his statement.
I don’t want to sign for a club where I wouldn’t be playing the football that I like, where I wouldn’t feel happy, just for the sake of money. We already earn huge wages. The priority is to make a big career and to win titles.
So, if the priority was to make a huge career and win titles, why can it not be Arsenal ? Let’s look at the difference. Both Man City and Arsenal can offer you champions league football( I think we can beat Udinese), both are in contention for equal number of trophies, and both are title contenders.
Infact, there are only 2 differences between both sides. That being, one plays boring football and another fantastic football. And the other, and the MOST important difference being that one offers you wages as if its offering a cigarette and one offers you wages as if its offering diamonds. Man City are willing to pay Nasri 185,000 pounds a week. That is 10,000 pounds more than Fabregas, Wilshere, and Koscielny combined.
Now it is true that I will feel let-down by Samir if he leaves. Because I actually thought he would stick by this team, a team which requires him a lot. But alas, the world works in enigmatic ways, and if it’s not to be, it just isn’t.
I loved Nasri, the way the player conducted himself throughout the first half of the season, and the way he led this Arsenal team. But now he is just a football player, who plays for Arsenal FC. Not a Gunner, JUST a footballer.
ARSENAL = MESSED UP…
I watched the community shield yesterday. A first look at the champions, why not? Well, it was one cracker of a match. A tale of 2 halves. City were outclassed in both halves. The first half they got 2 goals. And in the second their neighbours got 3. Let me be honest. I was supporting City, but I was laughing by the time we reached the full 90 minutes. It was a joke of a performance from a team which spends ‘a lot of money.’
Anyway, what happens in Manchester is something I am least concerned about. My concern lies primarily in North London.
Arsenal play some of the best football in the world. And even in comparison, with FCB, we play similar if not better (I feel we play better). Yes they have more trophies than us, but the fact still remains that we play similar football to them. BUT, just because you play similar that does not mean you are assured of trophies.
I know watching Arsenal sometimes is painful, VERY Painful. For instance, the match against Newcastle last season. And yet sometimes, I love to watch them. Swift passing and movement, splitting a defense from the middle.
Life from the outside does not look to have changed at the Grove. Nothing has changed. BUT, probably this week, we Gooners may be given some relief.
The Boss hinted last week that we can expect something to happen next week.
All I can ask a person (advice), be it Obama or even Wenger is to ‘be sane, and think logically for a moment.’ Think what has happened, the reasons for its happening, and how to rectify it. Not what has happened and ignore it. Yes, I know many people say that the manager knows perfectly, but I am sorry because if he knew perfectly his actions would certainly show differently. We have a very difficult start to the season. We play 2 qualifiers, 1 title contender, the champions and an Italian team. Oh yeah, also Newcastle, in very quick succession and any major fuck ups is going to cost us dearly.
It seems everybody knows what Arsenal need except the man who matters most.
Today the number of injuries for Arsenal stands at 9. RVP, Vermaelen, Wilshere, Gibbs, Nasri and co. If this is true then all hell will break loose at St. James Park.
I cannot believe that he has not signed a CB. Absolutely disgraceful. The entire summer before the season starts, and he waited for the asking price proposed by clubs to go down. There is a difference between spending like City and spending like a sane human being. City spends on whoever they want, be it good or bad. Arsenal on the other hand doesn’t spend.
The mans stubbornness has cost this club too much, and quite frankly the incapability of the club to win something is because of his ego. I am sick and tired of watching this club fall. It’s like watching a murder, in which you are helpless. And in this case we are actually helpless. No individual is greater than a club, well, that is certainly not the case here. In this case, one individual is greater than the club. And his name is Arsene Wenger.
I loved that old Arsene. The one who use to toy with the English media, the one who was not blindfolded, and the one who was humble. This one says humbly things but acts arrogant. His ego is Mount Everest, and his stubbornness knows no bounds…
Try listening to the voice of reason Arsene, just try once, and see how far that takes you….
This is the last week before the season starts, and to be fair AW may just sign a few players to shut us ‘noisy’ fans up. But I don’t care, because I rather be shut up by my manager than fans of other clubs.
5 days to go….
Guns-out
August, 2011…Here we go !
We have not had an easy start to the season, no, not at all. We start off where ‘we should have ended it’ and we end it where the championship resides. Here is the preview of the month of August – How things are going to come at Arsenal FC.
The season is less than 6 days away. And we start off at St. James Park. A place every Arsenal fan would love to forget after the events that took place last season.
This month is a real crunch time scenario for Arsenal Football Club, and a good start is crucial for us to challenge for the premier league. Its Newcastle first, swiftly followed by the first of our two legged ties for the champions league. Italian ‘Dark horse’ – Udinese. The first leg will be played at the Emirates on the 16th of August.
4 days later, we welcome the Kop into North London. Liverpool are not some mediocre team right now. With signings comprising of Steward Downing and Jordan Henderson they have a new look to their squad. And let’s face it, they are going to be difficult to beat.
After that, we fly to Italy, where the second leg of the champions league qualifiers shall be played at the Stadio Friuli. Now the first leg for such a match is going to be crucial. We have that match at home, and a commanding performance by us will reduce the pressure here. Once this is done, the month draws to an end, waiting, to be capped off by champions Manchester United at Old Trafford.
2 home and 2 away games in quick succession. 15 days 5 games, 3 away 2 home…It IS TIME.
1 out of 5….this ‘drought’ continues
As a supporter sometimes you just have to face the truth. And to do that one just has to accept certain facts. To call what you see is very simple to do, as long as you are not partial to one side. It is only when you are partial that it ‘pricks’ a person to call what is right. That afternoon at the Emirates when a packed stadium booed its players off the ground, it was something worth applauding for. Yes, you read it right, worth applauding for.
Tell me. Are they wrong? Are they disloyal fans ?
What is wrong if they boo their own team in their home ground because of a lousy, lack-lustre performance against a side which thinks it plays ‘soccer?’ There is no difference between the Arsenal of 2010 or 2011. Both are useless in defending and clueless after a certain point, about attacking.
Where teams have re-cooped, adapted and ‘changed,’ all Arsenal have done is stalled and waited. And for what? There is nothing new to see at this club, nothing new. It is the same old shit every fucking season. EVERY damn season. We are promised that the team is ready and that the team will finally step up. A promise good to hear, but one which is hollow and weak…
I am happy that the team was booed off at the Emirates. And I am even happier that Wenger was booed. A man which such a fat ego who just refuses to accept that he CAN get his wrong, that even he, like us is Human. People make mistakes but if you don’t know it’s a mistake, it’s not a mistake.
Recently, I have been very ‘active.’ Trying to figure out ways as how are we going to compete for the new season. But so far, all I have come up with is SQUAT.
There are certain player around which a team revolves. For instance In Real Madrid, its Cristiano Ronaldo, Ozil, Kaka etc, for Barcelona its Messi, Xavi, Iniesta, Villa. On the other hand if you consider us its RVP, our captain, and that bloke Nasri.
Among the 3 above mentioned 1 is very injury prone and 2 are unsettled. So here is the question. What on earth have Arsenal been doing over the course of the summer ?
Can someone help me figure this out, SERIOUSLY.
