It’s been a season of change at Arsenal, with competition for places in the team being more intense than ever before. Having already selected the 5 success stories of the season, it’s also worth noting who the club’s 5 major flops of the season have been and why.
Mathieu Flamini
When the Frenchman returned to the Emirates on a free transfer, after being released from AC Milan two years ago, it was a signing met with mixed emotions.
To the relief and maybe surprise of many, his return to the club last season was a commendable success, but his presence in the team this season hasn’t had the same affect by a long shot.
There were some memorable convincing displays last term in the heart of midfield; Tottenham at home being the most notable. However, the experience and natural talent he possessed seemed to have drained out of him last summer.
I can’t re-call any resounding performance from the 31 year-old this season, which has earned him the reputation as a brave, combative, yellow card worthy tackling defensive midfielder. In fact, whenever he’s been involved his presence seems to lay hoodoo in the team, channelling nerves and sloppiness in the overall play.
Even passing the ball without giving it away seems to be a problem. The games against Liverpool and Newcastle away are two prime examples.
His supposed measured and combative frame from midfield is non existent, as opposition players seem to ghost past him with ease, as a consequence for his lack of tactical awareness. He spends 90 per cent of the time bossing his team mates around and 10 per cent actually playing football.
The only positive highlight was his 1 league goal against West Ham in March. Without the emergence of Francis Coquelin, the team probably wouldn’t have finished the league season as high as they did, if Flamini was the only answer to a DM at our disposal.