With the World Cup just two days away, and many Arsenal players in attendance, it’s exciting times for Gooners worldwide. Not only will they see their favourite stars link-up with their international sides but it is also the chance to see potential arrivals play on the grandest stage of all. Amongst those linked with a move to Arsenal and featuring at the World Cup are Pedro Rodriguez, Serge Aurier and Lorenzo Insigne.
However, it is the performances of players already in North London that are more important. The World Cup gives these players the chance to set themselves up in perfect fashion next season as they look to hit top form or, in some cases, secure a place in part of Arsene Wenger’s plans for triumph next season.
The three players listed below are all ones to watch at the World Cup for various reasons. A good tournament for the trio will set them up in the perfect fashion for next season, where Arsenal will be gunning for further glory after lifting the FA Cup at Wembley last May.
1. Olivier Giroud
Arsenal’s French striker has come under a lot of criticism this season but to be fair to him, he’s had a very difficult time. As the Gunners only out-and-out striker, Giroud was tasked with leading the Arsenal attack and firing in goals consistently. His return come the finale was decent but Giroud is never going to be a top-scoring striker, he requires a partner.
For his national side, Giroud has been playing up-top alongside Real Madrid’s Karim Benzema. With a partner alongside him, Giroud can display just how talented he is and a decent tournament will be the showing that convinces Arsene Wenger to adopt a new tactic next season with two strikers, instead of simply replacing Giroud in the starting line-up with a new arrival.
Giroud and Yaya Sanogo displayed a few times last season that it is a partner that the Frenchman needs to succeed but Benzema presents a new option altogether, as it will show how important Giroud will be with a top-class finisher up front with him. Arsenal are in the market for a striker this summer and Giroud’s performances in Brazil could determine which sort of player will be arriving at the Emirates. Use the page numbers below to navigate through the rest of the article.Â