Arteta Plots Tactical Tweak That Could Transform Arsenal’s Attack

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·22 August 2025

Arteta Plots Tactical Tweak That Could Transform Arsenal’s Attack

Arsenal’s attack was far from its best against Manchester United. Viktor Gyökeres, starved of chances, struggled on his Premier League debut. Gabriel Martinelli worked hard defensively but provided little going forward, while Noni Madueke, who replaced him, was even less effective. Bukayo Saka looked decent, but he was not at his sharpest either. But Arsenal did walk away with all 3 points taken from Man United..

Why the attack needs a spark

If one thing was clear at Old Trafford, it is that Arsenal need something different to ignite their frontline. Many fans hoped the club would finally add a left winger to provide balance, with some believing the left-hand side is holding the team back. The argument is simple: if Arsenal can find a winger as dangerous as Saka, something Martinelli and Leandro Trossard have not consistently managed, the attack could click into gear.

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While the transfer market continues to be debated, Mikel Arteta must work with what he has. That is why attention has turned to possible tactical adjustments.

Bukayo Saka (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

Saka on the left, Madueke on the right

From Arsenal’s open training session on Wednesday, one intriguing tweak was spotted. Connor Humm, reporting live from London Colney, claimed:“Madueke playing right wing and Saka playing left wing in training.”

The left flank has been a problem area for too long, so it makes sense to try Saka there to give it the lift it needs. Madueke is most effective on the right, while Saka can thrive on either side. That combination almost created a second goal against United and could be worth trying against Leeds.

Martinelli, meanwhile, has not consistently delivered for two seasons. Persisting with him risks holding the team back. A shift that sees Saka left and Madueke right could freshen up the attack, and if it succeeds, it may inspire Martinelli to rediscover the brilliance of 2022-23.

Arteta may well be considering this tweak as a way to finally spark his frontline, and Gooners will be keen to see if it is put into action at the Emirates.

Looking forward to Saturday’s game?

Daniel O

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