Could his inclusion mean that Ø will roam less in build up, helping us to put more pressure in terms of numbers on the opponents back-line (e.g. by ST staying central, LCM pushing up more aggressively and Ø staying between the lines as a receiver rather than a first phase passer)?
Is he really that good?? Concerned about physical profile…not sure his tech level good enough to offset that? He’s good, but not Santi/Silva/B.Silva good - which I think is needed in the prem when you can’t hang physically - bit like F.Vieira.
We would've possibly agreed a contract with MZ, however we haven't triggered his release clause yet. So if his ACL goes pop in May then we may have second thoughts!
And Merino too actually - we at pot shot are big fans of his, but does this move mean he'll be dropped to the bench in favour of rice/zubi/ode? What does that mean for our midfield & final third dynamics?
As @clivepafc.bsky.social says we shouldn't think just in starting XIs. My question would be, What different combinations / configurations of the midfield would be possible? And which are the best for different opponents or game states?
This! Thinking in terms of what skill set is needed in which position to gain control of the game OR what skill set is needed in order to change/effect the game in terms of subs
How inevitable is a Zubi-Dooby-Doo chant and does a dark horse "Zubi, Zubi, Zubi, Zubi, Zubi Mendi-aaa" sung in the key of Karma Chameleon have a chance?
If he does come to the carpet, does this mean both Jorginho and Partey are leaving?… Do we look to buy a more ball carrying type of 8, and Merino becomes a rotation used at 6&8 when needed
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what does he do (well) that Merino doesn't and vice versa? And does Merino's Arsenal arrival make his ex Sociedad colleague's less or more likely?
Cracking subs bench incl. White, Lewis-Skelly, Nwaneri, Martinelli, Havertz, Merino
I can dream...
2) won’t be his main job of course but how do you think he’ll compare to Jorginho i.t.o final third impact?
https://imgflip.com/i/9gp9zm