There are few moments as an Arsenal fan when excitement and tension combines with success.
August 22, 2017 11:56Two of the three FA Cup finals have provided such entertainment, but such a performance is more characteristic of Liverpool under Brendan Rodgers than any recent Arsenal side.
It is easy to dwell on the defensive failures, or wonder at the attacking prowess that seems newly instated, but for once Arsenal fans could enjoy pure jubilation, without the added complexity of emotion that comes with every other Arsenal performance.
Being the first day of the season, the atmosphere of the Emirates was at fever pitch. There was little distraction from the Wenger Out brigade; rather a collective support for the team was seen for the first time in the Premier League in quite a while. It was reminiscent of Highbury days, when such excitement was commonplace, and although the Gunners now lack such a talented side, it felt equally good.
Talent is something that Arsenal have been in search of for many years in the transfer market. Ozil became, debatably, a dud, and other than Alexis Sanchez and perhaps Laurent Koscielny, Arsenal’s financial endeavours have been disappointing.
Therefore, it is forgivable to be sceptical of the ability of Andre Lacazette upon his arrival. However, based on his performance against Leicester, it seems like he deserves his critical acclaim.
Working tirelessly up front, scoring with a well-directed header and fitting in well with Arsenal's occasionally frustrating passing game, he resembles Alexis’ bulldog style of football; a nightmare for defenders and a serious goal threat.
Whether he will survive the duration of the season, or decline in accordance with Arsenal’s annual March meltdown is yet to be seen.
For all the inspiring football played and new signing excitement, the Leicester match was emblematic of Arsenal’s last 10 years. Incredibly tumultuous, promising at times, and giving absolutely no indication of what the future will look like.
With all the uncertainty provided, it is not helpful to speculate endlessly. Therefore, it is time for Arsenal fans to get a well deserved break from the frustration of Arsene Wenger and his team, and relish in the rare moment that football provides its main purpose: entertainment.
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