Arsenal Beating the Press

This weeks analysis looks at the Community Shield match between Arsenal and Liverpool.

Going into this game we saw a new rejuvenated Arsenal side fresh off their recent FA Cup victory and playing some attractive football under the guidance of Mikel Arteta. What was key in this game was the way Arsenal built from the back, incorporating many strategies to exploit Liverpool high press.

Key ways in which press was broken

• Full backs and midfielders dropping deeper. This overloaded Liverpool and forced them to either withdraw or commit more men

• If more men were committed Arsenal recognized this and looked to exploit the gaps left behind with longer passes into the front three. Arsenal have a quick front line and looked to keep their wide men high a lot to capitalize on the space left by Liverpool’s full backs

• Playing in behind for Aubameyang. Arsenals most dangerous payer was key again in this game. By staying high and looking for balls in behind he was allowed to run at the Liverpool backline. He wasn’t found every time due to poor pass execution but when found produced his usual devastating best

This was a great display from Arsenal. Through Mikel Arteta it shows that they know when to go short, when to long. Identifying key pressing triggers from the opposition to lure them in and then take advantage. It can be risky at times but it shows a new confidence and tactical know-how from a very promising young manager.