Arsenal may need a new playmaker soon, with recent reports claiming that they are keen to offload Mesut Ozil in January. The German has struggled to integrate to Unai Emery’s tactics, failing to make himself a first-team regular.
Borussia Dortmund’s Mahmoud Dahoud, in that regard, appears as an intriguing alternative for Ozil. The ex-Borussia Monchengladbach star has struggled to get enough game-time at his current club and might be a cost-effective replacement for Ozil in January. But, should the Gunners make a move for him?
Dahoud’s struggles at Borussia Dortmund
Dahoud was regarded as one of Bundesliga’s best talents before he joined Borussia Dortmund in 2017, for a fee of €12m. Since joining the Ruhrpott giants, the German slowly began to decline, mainly due to his lack of opportunities in the first-team.
The 23-year-old mustered just over 1,000 minutes of league football during his debut campaign. And last season, he made only 14 appearances under Lucien Favre, only half of which were starts.
During his ongoing two-year spell at the club, Dahoud has made 58 competitive appearances for Dortmund. And following the arrival of Julian Brandt and Thorgan Hazard this summer, it’s unlikely he will be able to get regular game-time under Favre’s stewardship anytime soon.
Hence, a move away from the Ruhrpott could be on the horizon.
What can he bring to the table?
Despite his struggles, Dahoud’s game has improved and matured a lot at Borussia Dortmund. Initially an explosive playmaker, Dahoud likes to operate in a more deeper role. He is quite fast and is known for his excellent combination play with his teammates.
Moreover, the ex-Borussia Monchengladbach starlet is capable of threading useful balls in behind the opposing defence. And unlike Ozil, he can provide the mobility and tenacity going forward, which is essential for any manager’s tactical philosophy.
Should Arsenal make a move for Dahoud?
Investing in Dahoud may not be a bad idea from Arsenal’s perspective. But, they should do it only if they fail to find a better alternative. Nicolo Zaniolo, for instance, could be a perfect replacement for Ozil.
As far as Dahoud is concerned, his energetic nature and technical quality may tune in well with Emery’s tactical philosophy – certainly more compatible than Ozil. He might be available on a cut-price too as he is unwanted in the BVB camp. Hence, Dahoud could be a viable option for Arsenal.
