Arsenal’s frustrating match against Bournemouth was not only a huge blow to their title ambitions this season, but it has also raised a serious concern for Arsene Wenger’s midfield selection. Francis Coquelin’s hamstring injury has left a huge gap in the central midfield left for Gunners and with FA Cup and Champions League to further congest their schedule in the coming months, Arsene Wenger will definitely have to bring in reinforcements.
Santi Cazorla is out until early March at least and Mohamed Elneny isn’t returning from his African Cup of Nations for the next few weeks. Although a timeframe isn’t yet provided by the club on the French midfielder’s injury, it is expected that Coquelin is surely missing the next three weeks. The manager stated in the post-match conference that his injury didn’t look good at all. It leaves Arsenal with only Aaron Ramsey alongside Xhaka.
And the way Aaron Ramsey played last night, the boss won’t take much heart from it. Here are 3 players Wenger should consider bringing in to stabilise their midfield.
Steven Nzonzi
Having played in clubs like Blackburn and Stoke City before, N’Zonzi has more than enough Premier League experience in English football and Arsene Wenger could have him directly into the first team.
One of the rare midfielders, who can demonstrate brute physical strength, with dominating aerial ability and composure, N’Zonzi could be the answer to Arsenal’s timidity against physically attacking team. Alongside Xhaka, he could be a huge presence for the team.
Will Hughes
Hughes has been a popular transfer target among Premier League clubs for some time now. Since his impressive debut for Derby County a while back, the 21-year-old has been eyed by big clubs across Europe and he looks like an ideal for a quick fix in the Arsenal midfield.
A promising midfielder with all-round abilities, Hughes has been ever-present for the Rams since he got his breakthrough a very young age and has 167 appearances to his name to date.
Julian Weigl
Now, he won’t come cheap and Wenger is unlikely to pay something astronomical, but the German midfielder could be a huge upgrade in Arsenal’s midfield. The 21-year-old Dortmund midfielder has been a revelation this season.
At 186cm, he could be a real threat on air and has a sharp eye for penetrating passes, which makes him a valuable asset alongside Xhaka. He also possesses something hardly any Arsenal players have, a consistent focus on the game.
