Arsenal’s defensive woes have been well documented this season. The Gunners are dawdling in mid-table, having conceded 34 goals so far – a tally only exceeded by Everton in the top half of the Premier League table. While defenders like David Luiz and Sokratis have failed to provide solidity at the back, the much-maligned Shkodran Mustafi hasn’t fared any better.
In this article, we analyse whether or not the German defender has a future at Arsenal in the long run.
Mustafi’s season so far
During the first phase of the campaign, Mustafi was ostracised from the first-team by Unai Emery. He did, however, end up featuring in cup games, where he performed quite well too. He has made 14 appearances in all competitions this season, only six of which have come in the Premier League.
And that’s where the problem lies. Mustafi has simply failed to live up to the expectations when playing against top-flight opposition. He has one way or another, made silly defensive errors, especially in the draw with Chelsea earlier this year, when his poor pass led to Luiz’s red card.
Why has Mustafi struggled this season?
The primary reason behind Mustafi’s lack of consistency is that, often, the German is expected to lead his side’s build-up play from the back. Somehow, he has been identified as a ball-playing defender, which is a reason why most of Mustafi’s defensive errors have originated from poor backpasses.
In fairness, the ex-Valencia star has fared quite well when it comes to defending deep and providing a physical presence in the defensive half. The Arsenal man’s commitment has also been impressive and often highlighted his real quality as a defender.
Will Pablo Mari’s addition impact Mustafi’s future?
Arsenal brought in Pablo Mari on loan from Flamengo in the January transfer window. Although the loan expires at the end of the season, the club has the option to make the deal permanent in the summer.
But, whether or not Mari’s addition could impact Mustafi’s future at Arsenal will solely depend on how the Spaniard manages to integrate to the Premier League. Indeed, the defender has minimal experience of European football, having previously failed to make his breakthrough in England with Manchester City.
At the same time, chances of Mikel Arteta overlooking Mustafi due to the presence Mari is undoubtedly there. But, with Europa League football coming up, along with FA Cup, the German will likely receive a final few opportunities to make his mark at Arsenal, failing which, he is likely to be offloaded in the summer transfer window.
