Arsenal
Three Reasons Why Jamie Gittens Could Be Arsenal’s Perfect Wing Solution
While Jamie Gittens may currently prefer a move to Chelsea, Arsenal should continue their pursuit of the Borussia Dortmund winger. Despite the player’s apparent preference for Stamford Bridge, the tactical and strategic benefits of bringing Gittens to the Emirates Stadium are undeniable. Here are 3 compelling reasons why the 20-year-old could be the missing piece in Mikel Arteta’s attacking puzzle.
1. The Pace Arsenal Have Been Desperately Missing
Arsenal’s biggest tactical weakness over the past two seasons has been their lack of genuine pace on the flanks. While Gabriel Martinelli offers speed, his inconsistency and tendency to drift infield has left Arsenal predictable in wide areas. Gittens brings the kind of raw pace that can stretch defenses vertically and create the space Arsenal’s technical players thrive in.
The England U21 international’s ability to beat defenders in foot races fundamentally changes how opponents approach defending against Arsenal. Teams that have successfully nullified the Gunners by sitting deep and compact would be forced to account for Gittens’ pace behind their defensive line, creating opportunities for through balls and opening up space for Martin Ødegaard and Bukayo Saka to operate.
His pace isn’t just about straight-line speed; Gittens possesses the acceleration and change of direction that makes him impossible to defend in one-on-one situations. This quality has been evident throughout his breakthrough season at Dortmund, where he’s consistently been one of the Bundesliga’s most dangerous wingers in transition moments.
2. Tactical Flexibility That Suits Mikel Arteta’s System
Arteta’s tactical evolution has increasingly relied on players who can operate in multiple positions and adapt to different phases of play. Gittens’ versatility makes him an ideal fit for this approach. The winger can operate as a traditional wide player, an inverted winger cutting inside, or even as a wing-back in certain defensive phases.
His ability to track back and contribute defensively has impressed scouts throughout the season, showing the kind of work rate and tactical discipline that Arteta demands from his wide players. Unlike many pace-focused wingers who can be defensive liabilities, Gittens has shown maturity in his positioning and willingness to help his full-back.
The winger’s technical ability on the ball also allows him to participate in Arsenal’s intricate passing combinations. His passing accuracy and decision-making in tight spaces have improved significantly under Edin Terzić, suggesting he could adapt well to Arsenal’s possession-heavy style while providing the direct threat they’ve been missing.
3. Long-Term Investment in Arsenal’s Future
At 20 years old, Gittens represents exactly the kind of long-term investment Arsenal have been making in their recruitment strategy. His age profile aligns perfectly with Arsenal’s core group of young players, potentially forming relationships with teammates like Saka, Ødegaard, and William Saliba that could define the club for the next decade.
The financial outlay required for Gittens, while substantial at around £55 million, represents excellent value when considering his potential for development. His Champions League experience with Dortmund provides valuable European pedigree, while his familiarity with English football through his academy days suggests he could adapt quickly to the Premier League’s demands.
Perhaps most importantly, Gittens has shown the kind of mentality and work ethic that suggests he could thrive under Arteta’s demanding tactical approach. His progression at Dortmund demonstrates his ability to learn and adapt, qualities that would be crucial in making the step up to a title-challenging Arsenal side.
The Opportunity Arsenal Cannot Afford to Miss
Despite Gittens’ apparent preference for Chelsea, Arsenal should continue their pursuit with confidence. The Gunners can offer guaranteed first-team football, a clear pathway to development, and the chance to be part of a young, ambitious project under one of Europe’s most promising coaches.
While Chelsea’s interest remains strong, their squad depth and tactical uncertainty could work in Arsenal’s favor. The opportunity to convince Gittens that the Emirates Stadium is the ideal environment for his development remains open, and Arsenal should look to seize it.
Arsenal host Chelsea at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday in what could prove decisive for the Gunners’ Premier League title ambitions. Arsenal sit top of the table with 61 points from 28 matches, five points clear of Manchester City, who still have a game in hand, while Chelsea occupy 7th with 45 points after being held to a frustrating 1-1 draw by Burnley at Stamford Bridge last weekend.
This represents a huge opportunity for Mikel Arteta’s side to put further distance between themselves and the chasing pack before facing Brighton away on Wednesday. Chelsea arrive at the Emirates in patchy form under Liam Rosenior, who has won just two of his eight league matches since replacing Enzo Maresca in January despite an encouraging start to his tenure.
Kick-off: 4:30 GMT, Sunday, March 1, 2026
Venue: Emirates Stadium
TV: Sky Sports
Kai Havertz Returns to Haunt Former Club
Mikel Arteta confirmed on Friday that Kai Havertz will train on Saturday ahead of the Chelsea clash, giving the German a chance to feature against his former employers. Havertz has been sidelined with a hamstring injury since early February, but scored the winner in Arsenal’s 1-0 Carabao Cup semi final victory over Chelsea earlier this month.
The 26 year old has endured a nightmare campaign with injuries limiting him to just 158 Premier League minutes this season, though he has still managed two goals and two assists when available. Viktor Gyokeres has flourished in Havertz’s absence, scoring twice in the 4-1 North London Derby demolition of Tottenham last weekend.
Rosenior Yet to Face Top Six Opposition
Liam Rosenior faces his first test against a top six side in the league since taking charge of Chelsea, having only faced teams sitting 7th or lower during his opening eight matches. His winning run needs proper context, given the quality of opposition, with recent dropped points against Leeds and Burnley at Stamford Bridge exposing serious vulnerabilities.
Arteta has beaten Rosenior twice already this season in the two legged Carabao Cup semi final, and the Spanish manager will fancy his chances of completing a treble over the Chelsea boss. Bukayo Saka should be fit despite limping off late against Spurs, while Ben White remains doubtful with a niggle.
Predicted Lineups: Arsenal (4-3-3): Raya; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Timber; Rice, Zubimendi, Odegaard; Saka, Gyokeres, Eze
Chelsea (4-2-3-1): Sanchez; James, Disasi, Colwill, Cucurella; Fernandez, Caicedo; Madueke, Palmer, Mudryk; Jackson
Also read: Kai Havertz Injury Update: Real Timeline and Medical Details Revealed!
Arsenal Dragon
Update Given Following Arsenal Injury Scare as Olivia Smith Discharged From Hospital After Being Stretchered Off During FA Cup Win Over Bristol City
Arsenal star Olivia Smith has been discharged from hospital after being stretchered off the field during their Women’s FA Cup game against Bristol City. The forward, who joined the Gunners in the summer, played just under an hour before being forced off with pictures showing a neck brace around the 21 year old at Meadow Park.
This was a worrying moment for Arsenal supporters watching on Sunday afternoon. The Canadian international went down, receiving lengthy treatment before being taken off on a stretcher as a precaution. Thankfully, the injury appears to be far less serious than initially feared.
Left Hospital Yesterday Evening
According to Arsenal reporter Tim Stillman, Olivia Smith left the hospital yesterday evening after tests were run and will return to be assessed this week ahead of the March international break. This is brilliant news for Arsenal, who cannot afford to lose Smith for any length of time, given her importance to the team.
It is believed that her involvement with Canada is still up in the air, with the Canucks facing a triple header of friendlies against Colombia, Argentina, and the United States over the coming two weeks. Arsenal’s next match sees them face London City Lionesses in mid March.
Big Boost for Champions League Hopes
With no video available for Arsenal’s cup game against Bristol City, there was huge concern surrounding Smith’s condition for those unable to attend the game at Meadow Park. Thankfully, what seemed initially to be a severe injury has turned out to be a fairly minor incident.
While Stina Blackstenius and Alessia Russo are both more than capable options to lead the line, it has been Smith who has been Renee Slegers’ favoured choice and proven to be a brilliant signing since her arrival from Liverpool. Having Smith likely available for both legs of the Chelsea Champions League quarter final is a massive boost for Arsenal’s hopes of retaining their European crown.
Arsenal
Arsenal Star Named WSL Player of the Month for January as Midfielder Continues Outstanding Form Following 400th Appearance Milestone
Kim Little has been named January’s Barclays Women’s Super League Player of the Month, recognition that follows her 400th appearance for Arsenal. The captain has made an outstanding start to 2026, completing every minute in the WSL and helping secure two clean sheets and four points from fixtures against Manchester United and Chelsea.
Little drove the midfield against United in the 0-0 draw at the Emirates Stadium and was again pivotal in the disciplined defensive display at Stamford Bridge that delivered that historic 2-0 win over the Blues. This is absolutely deserved recognition for one of Arsenal’s most influential players, who continues to perform at the highest level despite being 35 years old.
400th Appearance Came in Belgium
Little’s landmark 400th appearance came in Belgium as Arsenal won 4-0 at OH Leuven to close in on a Champions League London derby with Chelsea. The Scottish playmaker came on as a second half substitute in the 82nd minute, replacing Olivia Smith, to reach 400 appearances.
This achievement is even more notable given the time she spent playing in the USA and Australia during her career. Little has become one of the defining figures of the modern Arsenal era, establishing herself as an absolute legend at the club.
Chelsea Awaits in Champions League Quarterfinals
Provided nothing dramatic unfolds at Meadow Park next week, Chelsea awaits in the quarterfinals of the UEFA Women’s Champions League. Arsenal hold a commanding 4-0 advantage from the first leg and are overwhelming favorites to progress to a mouth watering London derby in the last eight.
Little will be central to Arsenal’s hopes of defending their Champions League crown, with the midfielder’s experience and leadership qualities proving invaluable during the knockout stages of major competitions. Her consistent performances continue to set the standard for everyone around her.
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