Arsenal headed into Wednesday’s matchup vs West Ham United with a eye on 4th place as a win would take them into the Champions League slot and above West Ham in the table for the first since since November of 2019, all under the heavy cloud of captain (well, now former-captain) Pierre Emerick-Aubameyang being stripped of his captaincy duties after being late to return from France, reportedly a “straw that broke the camel’s back” incident.
Manager Mikel Arteta opted for the same starting XI that outside of the opening 18 minutes had dominated the match vs Southampton, to an eventual three – nil victory.
Arteta’s decision was justified off the bat as Arsenal played with a level of controlled aggression and balance that left West Ham reeling BUT – as has been the case too often this season – did not result in a tangible difference on the scoreboard with the teams tied nil – nil heading into the break.
However, that was soon to change after the half with Alexander Lacazette and Gabriel Martinelli combining to break the tie and open the scoring on a fluid move that knifed through West Ham’s typically concrete midfield pivot of Tomas Soucek and Declan Rice (arguably the best midfield pairing in the Premier League this season).
Lets go through the entire sequence for Arsenal, from build-up to finish.
The move starts with LCB Gabriel Magalhaes in possession and looking to progress the ball.
He picks out the movement of Lacazette who has moved up into the left channel and the pocket between the 1st and 2nd lines – in front of West Ham’s pivot but occupying the attention of all lines behind him – and Gabriel plays a timely line breaking progressive pass.
Laca does well to recognize the space he has behind him and turn quickly and directly into space to garner even more attention. Attention to the tune of five defenders turning towards him which opens up a gaping channel for Gabriel Martinelli to run into.
Martinelli instantly recognizes the space, uses his elite short-burst speed to accelerate into it and Lacazette times his ball with immaculate weight on it to play Martinelli through. You can see the confusion with West Ham as Soucek points for cover but it’s far too little, too late.
Martinelli takes one heavy touch to take the ball away from the incoming right back and is in the clear and he calmly begins his shooting sequence.
Martinelli targets the far side of the net and leans his hips away from the ball to open up his right side to get the side of his foot flush with the ball. Note the balance as he connects with the ball which ensures he directs the force the way he wants and optimizes his technique.
His accuracy is pinpoint as the ball tucks in right inside the far post. Unstoppable precision and a testament to his composure and maintaining his technique during a crucial moment of the match.
Gabi strides away in in full stride with body lean, with a confidence and swag reminiscent of the only and only Thierry Henry. Another goal for a player who is currently showcasing the hard work he put in on off the pitch and justifying the developmental patience of Arteta and the Arsenal coaching staff.
The entire sequence showcases the recognition, anticipation, and fluidity that Arteta wants to see from front to back – combining it with the unique talents of his current personnel. From Gabriel picking out a pass, to Lacazette astutely finding a pocket and turning into space with eyes and head up, and Martinelli recognizing the moment to make a run off the shoulder into open space, using his blistering pace to get 1v1 with the keeper, and then trusting his training to slot the ball home in style.
A great goal in arguably Arsenal’s best display under manager Mikel Arteta.
Fin. COYG.
Dr. Rajpal Brar, DPT, (@3cbperformance) is a physiotherapist, movement expert, fitness trainer, sports scientist and mindfulness coach. He runs the LA and online based physiotherapy and athletic performance clinic 3CB Performance, is an avid Gooner since 1995, and you can subscribe to his Youtube channel (which posts a variety of Gunners’ related content).