Arsenal typically play in a 4-3-3 with a 4-1 build-up, #8's between the lines, & Martinelli/Saka on the sides. However, when Smith-Rowe plays off the left Arteta adjusts the dynamics to suit his players' qualities, which resembles a 3-4-3 (3-2-5) attacking shape.
Elite coaching.
Elite coaching.
Crucially, the 4-3-3 dynamics remain. The width is held, there's presence between the lines, & there's compactness in midfield for defensive transitions, just like it is in the 4-3-3. ESR is closer to a #10 than a winger so Arteta adjusts the system accordingly with him inverting
Xhaka also prefers to operate in the second phase so it suits him as well. Then, off the right-hand side, the dynamics also remain with Cedric still having the license to offer the overlap for Saka on the outside.
As such, Arsenal still have trio's to combine in on either side.
As such, Arsenal still have trio's to combine in on either side.
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