26 Jul 2014 11:43:08
I know everybody on here wants Wenger to sign a CDM, but for me the key question is, does he see it as a key position. I am not so sure. In the past we have had only Gilberto and Song in a CDM type role, and both we're let go. When Arsene looks back at his best ever midfield, Viera and Petit, neither were CDMs. Instead both shared defensive and forward responsibilities, which seems much more a style that Wenger likes, I.e. Intelligent skillfull footballers who communicate. So I guess we will find out shortly, but whoever we sign I doubt (and hope) it won't be a player based purely on his tackling stats, but instead an intelligent footballer who will compliment what he already has, ie someone who will fit alongside Ramsey. For me we were linked with one player who IMO fits that role perfectly, Khedira. When we were linked with him I was as excited as for the Sanchez signing. Sadly it doesn't look like it's going to happen, but I thought he would compliment Ramsey perfectly, just like how he partnered with Kroos for Germany (he sits in the right hand CM spot which I think compliments Ramsey, who like Kroos for Germany, tends to sit in the left hand slot). Also Kedira has been there seen it done it in the Spanish league at a massive club, and as a result would have been a signing that, following on from Sanchez, would really make the footballing world sit up and fear what we are building. No offence to Schenderling but will the good peoples of Milan or Barca really take much notice if we signed ultimately just a good premiership player? Anyway as I said it's just a pipe dream now anyway, and hopefully whoever does come as long as they wear the red and white shirt with pride I guess that's the key.

{Ed001's Note - Petit was a defensive midfielder mate, he has said so himself. He was a central defender that Wenger played in front of the defence as extra insurance to allow the wide players and full backs more freedom. I had a long chat with Wenger once about footie, obviously, and he told me how it was one of the most crucial positions in the game. This was a long time ago now though, so his thinking might have changed.}

1.) 26 Jul 2014
26 Jul 2014 12:15:47
Good post and I do agree the role you're saying khedira would've been a perfect fit. However I do think we need a tough tackling dm

2.) 26 Jul 2014
I think that makes a lot of sense Ed001 and it must be said also that a certain Mister Vieira playing with him helped the team offensively an defensively regardless of exact positions.

The DM role is still vital for sure but like football, it has changed. Similar to CB these days they need to be very comfortable on the ball, passing, etc. So I can see Wenger getting a DM but not a bruiser. He loves Arteta and his game (I don't think he has it anymore ) but i'm sure Wenger is looking at Schneiderlin and thinking he could have a ready made replacement

3.) 26 Jul 2014
I don't think we dare go to Anfield, the etihad or boot sale stadium again without one D

4.) 26 Jul 2014
To be fair using the Germany example, Kroos and Khederia did have the magnificent Schweinsteiger behind them. I suppose it's asking too much for us to sign both Schenderling and Khederia!