The biggest dilemma that has faced Arsene Wenger lately is the question mark surrounding Mesut Ozil. The 42.5 million signing from Real Madrid set the Premier League alight with some strong performances but his form has somewhat deteriorated just when Arsenal needed their record signing the most.
He played just 24 minutes against Stoke City and had no effect on the outcome of the game. It never seemed Ozil would really stamp his authority on a game against a side that are extremely physical. This was more than likely the thinking behind Wenger’s exclusion of Mesut from the starting 11.
His body language indicates that he isn’t particularly a player who is prepared to graft and cover the yards to retain possession and with Arsenal at home to Swansea City this Saturday the midfielders will need to press high to win the ball. But his defensive contribution is what seems to concern Arsene Wenger the most and Mesut may be considered a luxury player to have at this point.
However, the German playmaker still possesses the natural killer pass instinct which can unlock any defence at any given time. Olivier Giroud will thrive off this type of service. His ability to hold onto the ball in crowded areas is one of his strongest attributes. Swansea City, their next opponents are a team who like to keep hold of the ball so Arsenal will need to be equally as efficient with the ball.
His ability is obvious for all to see and it is just a spell for the German where he is low on confidence. Wenger will need his record signing to start performing if Arsenal stands any chance of maintaining a realistic title challenge for the rest of the campaign and giving him 25 minutes here or there isn’t going to improve his confidence which is why the German’s return needs to be sooner rather than later.