Arsenal have several players capable of playing as defenders in the squad but it is clear that they need a more reliable player in the next season.
Maitland-Niles is one of Arsenal midfielders, the English has been with Arsenal since 2017 but he’s found himself at left wing-back. However, he has never truly convinced during that time. Not good enough for one of the world’s elite clubs.
Meanwhile, Arsenal defender Laurent Koscielny, is making plan for his future in football. The Frenchman current deal at the Emirates Stadium is set to expire in 2020.
Last year, Koscielny was sidelined with an achilles injury, which is set to see him miss out for the remainder of the year.
Speaking to media, former Arsenal striker, Charlie Nicholas says he wouldn’t keep hold of any of the Gunners’ defenders if he was manager.
“I wouldn’t keep any of the defenders. Maitland-Niles I feel sorry for because he’s not defensive-minded, he’s more of a central midfield player. He’s a good athlete but he’s not getting taught how to defend by these players who are on survival courses.” Nicholas said.
“Koscielny’s been in the deep end now for three years. Arsene Wenger, when he started playing Monreal at centre-back we knew Arsenal were in trouble. I’m sorry to criticise individuals because they give every ounce that they have but they’re not good defensively, I would let them all go whatever it takes.” Nicholas added.
Hector Berlin had undergone successful knee surgery in Spain to treat his ruptured anterior cruciate ligament injury. The Spanish defender is set to return next season.
“I don’t think it will take £150m to get them out and rebuild and build a new dynamic back four. The genuine aspects of it is I think £60m-£70m would make it better than it currently is.” Nicholas said.
“We have a decent goalkeeper but we need pace and younger legs at the back. Bellerin and Holding will come back. It’s time to use the younger players, like Nelson and Willock. But defensively everything must be pin-pointed to sort the centre of defence and a left-back.” he added.
