Mesut Ozil has had a difficult time at Arsenal following the arrival of Unai Emery. While the German has experienced several off-field issues, both in the national team as well as in London, his performances have also deteriorated. He struggled to integrate himself to Emery’s tactical setup as well.
And as Arsenal look to usher in a new era under the Spaniard, they will likely have to offload Ozil sooner rather than later given his hefty wages. In this article, we will discuss three replacements for the German the Gunners could target next summer.
Brahim Diaz
Life hasn’t been easy for Brahim Diaz ever since his surprise move to Real Madrid at the start this year. The Spaniard has struggled to get regular game-time while injuries, too, have played a part in stalling his development in recent months.
And to make things worse, the playmaker was not released by Real Madrid on loan this summer. That means he will have to compete with the likes of Eden Hazard, Rodrygo and Isco among many others to receive regular game-time at the Bernabeu this season.
Arsenal, to that end, could offer him a lifeline next summer – a return to Premier League. Diaz doesn’t necessarily have any experience of playing in the English top flight. But, he has the quality as well as the potential to become a vital component of the Gunners’ creative department in the coming years.
David Brooks
AFC Bournemouth attacker David Brooks was one of the breakout stars of the Premier League last season. He scored seven goals and provided five assists in 30 league matches, helping the Cherries stay away from the relegation scrap.
The 22-year-old’s progress has been halted by ankle surgery. But, his return would surely boost a Bournemouth side that has scored only five goals in four matches, which, in turn, highlights the significance of Brooks.
A former member of the Manchester City youth academy, Brooks is a versatile playmaker, who can also operate as a winger. His ability to break inside and provide dangerous balls into the penalty box could make him an ideal fit for an Arsenal team that boasts the services of two lethal forwards in Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Alexandre Lacazette.
Raphael Guerreiro
Borussia Dortmund star Raphael Guerreiro was hugely linked with a move away from the club this summer, with PSG notably interested in his services. However, the Portuguese ended up staying and is apparently on the verge of extending his contract at Ruhrpott. That, however, doesn’t guarantee his long-term future at the club.
Guerreiro is someone Arsenal should go after next summer as he has the technicality as well as the versatility that could help him integrate to Emery’s tactics. Besides, the ex-Lorient star is known for his one-touch passing game, which tunes in well with Arsenal’s style of play.
The fact that Guerreiro could instantly become a first-team regular at Arsenal should be tempting for the midfielder. But, in the meantime, the Gunners should monitor his progress at Dortmund this season.
