After a tremendously successful summer transfer window so far for Arsenal – something we are not accustomed to, we have found ourselves partially obsessed, glued to twitter feeds and searching for the latest “in the know”. In the midst of all of this we have potentially neglected what quality our squad already boasts, Joel Campbell specifically speaking.
Headed into this year’s World Cup, he was a relatively unknown quantity. He departed the world stage with the confidence of Arsene Wenger, who confirmed that Campbell is part of his plans this season and has no intention of selling or loaning out the Costa Rican. Off the back of a noteworthy World Cup campaign, Joel Campbell has left Arsenal fans mulling over where and how he could fit into the Arsenal side. The Gunners faithful got a good first look at him in the comprehensive victory over Benfica in the Emirates Cup where he capped off a compelling performance with a sumptuous half-volley finish. With Yaya Sanogo leading the line, Campbell found himself on the right side of the front 3, which is where a featured predominantly for Olympiacos last season. He did however drift across to the left side on occasion as well, switching with Oxlade-Chamberlain.
At Deportivo Saprissa, where Joel initially made an impression on Arsene Wenger, he was deployed in a second-striker’s role, where he would roam around in all attacking positions. Soon after he sealed his move to Arsenal, he was loaned out to FC Lorient, which marked the beginning of his education in European football. Like many young strikers in Europe, Joel was used frequently in wider areas to develop his all-round game and decision making. Having a bit more time and space available, along with the opportunity to take on defenders one-on-one, allowed Joel to thrive in his new found role. Expanding his game was also vital and his season-long loan to Real Betis offered exactly that. Flair, composure and link-up play was the main improvement for Joel as his time spent in La Liga helped him mature. The 2013/14 season was, however, his breakthrough campaign in which he was a key component for the Greek Superleague winning side. What truly earmarked Campbell’s quality was his outstanding performances in the Uefa Champions League against Manchester United, foreshadowing that he has a big game mentality which proved to be correct during Costa Rica’s fairytale World Cup campaign.
To get the best out of Joel Campbell, Arsenal should give heed to the manner in which he is deployed for his national side – which is as a wide forward. Despite his one-footed nature, he has the ability to turn defenders inside out and make an impact on either side of the attack. Being a striker by nature, he is not prone to hugging the touchline and won’t be whipping in crosses too often but he will make an impact where it counts. Joel is at his best when he is taking on defenders, making one-twos and making runs in behind opposition defense – with Aaron Ramsey and a certain Mesut Ozil as suppliers, there is full capacity for Campbell to perform at a premium. Although his preferred position is as a no.9, he is an honest player, eager to learn and succeed. He might be on the fringes at the beginning stages of the season, given the wealth of attacking options Arsenal possess, but when his opportunities come by, expect him to take it. Along with the talent, he has the proper attitude, which is a dying ember in the game.