Connect with us

Arsenal

“He’s a cheat”, “Thank God there’s VAR next season”: Some Arsenal fans left fuming after shock 3-2 loss vs Crystal Palace + Match report

Published

on

Arsenal vs Crystal Palace Report: Arsenal Match Report

Arsenal failed to leapfrog their North London rivals after a shock 3-2 loss to Crystal Palace at home. Goals from Christian Benteke, Wilfried Zaha and James McArthur was enough to give the visitors the three points.

The hosts had the first chance of the game after the ball ricocheted into the path of Mesut Ozil at the edge of the box but his shot was comfortably saved by Guaita.

Palace’s first chance came from a corner a few minutes later where Dann had a free header but Arsenal held on. Mohamed Elneny had a golden opportunity to give Arsenal the deal but his volley flew over the bar. 

Dann was found free in the box yet again and his header this time fell into the path of Kelly but his shot under pressure from Mavropanos was off target. Good defending from the Greek there but Palace should’ve been ahead.

However, Palace did go ahead in the 17th minute after Benteke was left free in the box from a freekick and his header found the net despite a hand from Bernd Leno. Some poor defending from Mustafi gave the Belgian so much space.

The hosts started to get in on the game as Alexandre Lacazette’s shot on the turn was well blocked by Kelly. 

Roy Hodgson’s side showed outstanding organisation with almost everybody back when not in possession. Mustafi had a huge chance to make up for his mistake at the back but his header from Ozil’s corner went over.

Mavropanos drove past three players but his shot from outside the box went wide. Arsenal had a massive shout for a penalty after Kolasinac’s cross struck Wan-Bissaka’s arm but the referee failed to spot it.

Palace had a huge chance to double their lead moments before halftime but Leno brilliantly saved twice from Kouyate. A big let-off for the Gunners as they headed into the break 1-0 down. 

Unai Emery brought on Alex Iwobi and Ainsley Maitland-Niles in place of Carl Jenkinson and Mavropanos and the change worked immediately. Iwobi flicked the ball into Lacazette whose reverse pass found Ozil and the German finished with his trademark chip. 

Arsenal began to increase the tempo of the game with Ozil the key player on the pitch. Palace struggled to get on the ball but had bodies behind to contain the Gunners. 

However, at the hour mark, Shkodran Mustafi blindly let the ball roll into the box in the hope of Leno picking it up but Wilfried Zaha buried it in to restore Palace’s lead. 

The goal was completely against the run of play but the Gunners’ defensive woes continued as Palace extended their lead a few minutes later. Skipper Milivojevic’s corner was flicked on into the path of McArthur, who nodded the ball home. 

Shocking defending from Arsenal yet again as the Eagles now had a two-goal cushion. Arsenal brought on Lucas Torreira in place of Elneny as Unai Emery looked for a comeback. 

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang drove into the Palace box brilliantly and threaded a ball into to Lacazette but the pass bounced off a Palace defender back into his path and he smashed it home with 13 minutes to spare. 

Alex Lacazette dribbled past Dann into the box and the Frenchman looked to be clipped from behind but John Moss waved play on, leaving the Gunners frustrated.

Mustafi’s poor night continued as he went into the book for simulation in the 85th minute. Ozil’s delightful cross from the right flank almost crept in at the far post but Guaita did well to push it away. 

The Gunners piled the pressure on the visitors as Matteo Guendouzi and Lacazette linked up brilliantly and the latter found Iwobi in the box but the Nigerian’s weak shot was saved comfortably. 

Palace held on to pick up the three points as Arsenal’s defensive woes continue to hurt their chances of finishing in the top 4. 

Read more Arsenal news, click here: Arsenal latest news

Here’s how some Arsenal fans reacted after the disappointing result:

https://twitter.com/Jonny_Singer/status/1119999206960316416
https://twitter.com/MarkBFoot/status/1119990667919462400
https://twitter.com/YankeeGunner/status/1120009830540939264
https://twitter.com/sam_basten/status/1120011552608980993
https://twitter.com/DareToWenger/status/1120003793951907845
https://twitter.com/_AdamKeys/status/1120008265893543936
https://twitter.com/Stillberto/status/1120008317861023751
https://twitter.com/MikeKovacs_LWOS/status/1120007567902674944
https://twitter.com/EmmaStonePT/status/1120007945910149120

Arsenal

€50 million Star’s Arsenal Blueprint: How Barcelona’s Midfield Gem Fits Mikel Arteta’s Current System

Published

on

`€50 million Star's Arsenal Blueprint: How Barcelona's Midfield Gem Fits Mikel Arteta's Current System Marc Casado Fabrizio Romano

Arsenal’s pursuit of Marc Casado represents more than just squad depth—it’s a strategic move that could transform their tactical flexibility. With Martin Zubimendi arriving from Real Sociedad for £55 million and the departures of Thomas Partey and Jorginho, Casado would slot seamlessly into Arsenal’s evolving midfield structure.

The New Midfield Hierarchy

In Arteta’s preferred 4-3-3 formation, Zubimendi sits at the base of midfield with Rice operating as a number eight and Odegaard enjoying attacking freedom. Casado’s arrival would provide crucial rotation options and tactical variations. His defensive-minded approach perfectly complements Zubimendi’s ball-playing abilities, offering Arteta different solutions depending on opposition threats.

Marc Casado to Arsenal
Marc Casado (via Everything Barca)

The Barcelona midfielder’s positional discipline would be particularly valuable when Arsenal need to prioritize defensive stability. Against counter-attacking teams, Casado could partner Zubimendi in a deeper double pivot, allowing Rice to push forward and support Arsenal’s attacking phases more effectively.

Read More: Why Dusan Vlahovic Could Be Arsenal’s Perfect Free Transfer Gamble: Three Key Reasons

Tactical Integration

Arsenal’s current XI features David Raya in goal, with Jurrien Timber at right-back, William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes in central defense, and Riccardo Calafiori or Myles Lewis-Skelly at left-back. This defensive foundation would benefit from Casado’s screening presence, particularly during Arsenal’s high defensive line implementation.

Arsenal's Myles Lewis Skelly and Ethan Nwaneri
Arsenal’s Myles Lewis Skelly and Ethan Nwaneri (Via ESPN)

Arteta’s emphasis on playing through opposition press rather than over it would suit Casado’s technical abilities. His Barcelona training ensures comfort in tight spaces, while his passing range could help Arsenal break lines more effectively. The young Spaniard’s ability to receive passes under pressure would be crucial in Arsenal’s build-up play.

Casado’s arrival would also provide tactical flexibility in big matches. Arsenal could deploy him alongside Zubimendi in a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Rice pushing into the number ten role behind the front three. This would offer additional defensive protection while maintaining Arsenal’s attacking threat through Rice’s box-to-box capabilities.

Competition and Rotation

The current attacking trio of Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz, and Gabriel Martinelli would benefit from improved midfield protection. Casado’s defensive work rate would allow Arsenal’s forwards to press more aggressively, knowing they have reliable cover behind them.

His presence would also ease the burden on Zubimendi, who arrived as Arsenal’s primary midfield solution. The rotation possibilities between Casado, Zubimendi, and Rice would keep all three players fresh throughout Arsenal’s demanding schedule, including Champions League commitments.

Developmental Pathway

At 21, Casado represents a long-term investment that aligns with Arsenal’s squad planning. His La Liga experience and Barcelona pedigree suggest he could adapt quickly to Premier League demands, while his age profile fits perfectly with Arsenal’s core group of players.

The midfielder’s ability to learn from Zubimendi, another Spanish international, would accelerate his Premier League adaptation. Their partnership could develop into one of the league’s most effective defensive midfield combinations, providing Arsenal with the foundation needed for sustained success.

Conclusion

Marc Casado’s potential arrival would complete Arsenal’s midfield transformation. His defensive discipline, technical ability, and tactical intelligence would provide Arteta with the flexibility to adapt his system based on opposition strengths. Combined with Zubimendi’s creativity and Rice’s box-to-box energy, Casado would form part of a midfield trio capable of competing at the highest level.

The Barcelona midfielder’s integration would be seamless, offering both immediate impact and long-term potential. For Arsenal’s title ambitions, Casado represents the final piece of their tactical puzzle.

Read More: Why Arsenal’s £1m Gamble on Igor Tyjon Could Be Their Next Academy Goldmine

Continue Reading

Arsenal

Marc Casado to Arsenal: Scout Report & SWOT Analysis

Published

on

Scout Report and Swot Analysis of Marc Casado

Arsenal are reportedly preparing a €40 million bid for Barcelona’s defensive midfielder Marc Casado, with Mikel Arteta having made an “express request” for the 21-year-old’s services. The Gunners face competition from Chelsea and Manchester United for the Spanish international’s signature, making this one of the summer’s most intriguing midfield battles.

Player Profile & Current Status

Marc Casado has emerged as one of Barcelona’s most promising homegrown talents, establishing himself as a regular first-team player under Xavi and continuing to impress under Hansi Flick. The 21-year-old defensive midfielder from Sant Pere de Vilamajor has transformed from Barcelona Atletic captain to a key figure in La Liga’s most demanding midfield environment.

Standing at an ideal height for his position, Casado possesses the physical attributes to compete in the Premier League’s intense midfield battles. His rapid progression through Barcelona’s academy system and seamless transition to senior football demonstrates the mental fortitude required at the highest level.

Tactical Analysis & Style of Play

Casado operates as a classic defensive midfielder, excelling in the number six role that has become increasingly crucial in modern football. His positional discipline allows Barcelona to maintain their high defensive line while providing a crucial shield for the back four. The Spaniard’s ability to break up play and initiate attacks from deep positions aligns perfectly with Arsenal’s current tactical setup under Arteta.

His passing range sets him apart from typical defensive midfielders. Casado can switch play with precision, threading passes through tight spaces while maintaining excellent ball retention statistics. This technical proficiency would complement Arsenal’s possession-based approach, offering the creative distribution that has sometimes been missing from their midfield.

Marc Casado to Arsenal
BARCELONA, SPAIN – AUGUST 12: Marc Casado of FC Barcelona looks on during the Joan Gamper Trophy match between FC Barcelona and AS Monaco at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys on August 12, 2024 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)

The Barcelona academy graduate demonstrates excellent spatial awareness, consistently positioning himself to receive passes under pressure. His ability to turn defense into attack quickly would suit Arsenal’s counter-pressing system, where rapid transitions are essential for creating scoring opportunities.

Performance Data & Statistics

During the 2024-25 season, Casado has made 23 La Liga appearances, scoring one goal and providing three assists. While these attacking numbers might seem modest, they reflect his primary role as a defensive anchor rather than a creative force. His underlying statistics tell a more complete story of his impact.

With 116 tackles completed and 21 aerial duels won, Casado has proven his defensive reliability in Spain’s top flight. His three assists place him among the contributing midfielders in La Liga, while his chances created demonstrate an eye for the final ball when opportunities arise.

The midfielder’s consistency has been remarkable, missing only a brief period due to injury in March. His durability and fitness levels suggest he could handle the Premier League’s physical demands without significant adaptation time.

Transfer Market Context

Barcelona’s willingness to entertain offers around €40 million reflects both their financial pressures and Casado’s current market value. The Catalan club view this as a potentially beneficial operation that wouldn’t significantly impact their squad structure, given their midfield depth.

Arsenal’s interest makes tactical sense, particularly considering their summer reinforcements of Martin Zubimendi and Christian Norgaard. However, Casado would offer different qualities to both players, providing a more defensively minded option who could unlock different tactical formations for Arteta.

The competition from Chelsea and Manchester United adds urgency to any potential deal. Chelsea’s recent midfield investments and United’s ongoing squad rebuild suggest Arsenal may need to move quickly to secure Casado’s signature.

SWOT Analysis

Strengths

Casado’s primary strength lies in his defensive positioning and reading of the game. His ability to anticipate opposition attacks and intercept passes has made him indispensable to Barcelona’s defensive structure. The young midfielder rarely loses possession, maintaining impressive passing accuracy even under intense pressure.

His versatility within midfield roles provides tactical flexibility. While primarily a defensive midfielder, Casado can operate as a box-to-box player or even drop deeper to form a back three when required. This adaptability would give Arteta multiple tactical options throughout matches.

The psychological advantage of Barcelona’s academy training cannot be understated. Casado has been developed within one of football’s most demanding environments, learning to play under pressure from an early age. His La Liga experience and recent Spain call-ups demonstrate his ability to perform at the highest level.

Read More: Antonio Nusa to Arsenal: Scout Report + SWOT Analysis

Weaknesses

Physical adaptation to the Premier League represents Casado’s most significant challenge. While technically gifted, the increased pace and physicality of English football could initially impact his effectiveness. The midfielder’s relatively slight frame might require strengthening to compete with Premier League forwards.

Goal threat remains limited, with only one strike in 23 appearances. Arsenal’s midfield has sometimes lacked penetration from central areas, and Casado’s conservative attacking approach might not immediately address this concern.

Age and experience factors could prove decisive in crucial moments. At 21, Casado still has developmental aspects to his game, particularly in game management and leadership qualities that come with maturity.

Opportunities

Arsenal’s current tactical evolution presents perfect timing for Casado’s arrival. Arteta’s increasing emphasis on possession-based football and high pressing would suit the Spaniard’s skill set, potentially accelerating his development under familiar tactical principles.

The Premier League’s global profile offers career advancement opportunities that could accelerate Casado’s progression toward Spain’s senior national team. Regular Champions League football at Arsenal would provide the platform for international recognition.

Partnership possibilities with existing Arsenal midfielders could create devastating combinations. Casado’s defensive discipline would allow more attacking players to express themselves, potentially unlocking new tactical dimensions for the Gunners.

Threats

Adaptation struggles have affected many La Liga imports to the Premier League. The increased physicality and pace could initially overwhelm Casado, potentially leading to confidence issues that might impact his long-term development.

Competition for places at Arsenal has intensified with summer signings. Casado would need to establish himself quickly to justify his price tag and maintain regular playing time essential for his continued development.

Barcelona’s buy-back clause considerations could complicate the transfer. While not explicitly mentioned in current reports, the Catalan club’s history of including such clauses might limit Arsenal’s long-term security over the player.

Conclusion & Recommendation

Marc Casado represents exactly the type of signing Arsenal should pursue: young, technically excellent, and tactically intelligent. His Barcelona pedigree and La Liga experience suggest he possesses the quality to succeed in the Premier League, while his age profile fits Arsenal’s strategic planning.

The €40 million valuation appears reasonable in today’s market, particularly considering comparable transfers for players of similar age and potential. Casado’s defensive reliability would provide Arteta with tactical flexibility while his distribution skills could unlock new attacking patterns.

Arsenal should prioritize this signing, recognizing that competition from Chelsea and Manchester United makes swift action essential. Casado’s profile suggests he could develop into a cornerstone of Arsenal’s midfield for years to come, making this transfer both strategically sound and financially prudent.

The key to success would be providing Casado with adequate adaptation time while maintaining confidence in his abilities. His Barcelona background suggests he possesses the mental strength to handle pressure, but patience during his Premier League adjustment period would be crucial for long-term success.

Checkout All our Scout Reports

Continue Reading

Arsenal

The €50m Gamble: Why Marc Casado Makes Perfect Sense for Arsenal

Published

on

Marc Casado is targeted by Mikel Arteta's Arsenal

Arsenal‘s pursuit of Marc Casado has intensified significantly, with the Gunners making enquiries for the Barcelona midfielder alongside Chelsea as the summer transfer window heats up. Both Arsenal and Chelsea have made initial enquiries, with Barcelona warming to the idea of selling for around €50 million to address their ongoing financial constraints.

The 21-year-old’s situation at Barcelona presents Arsenal with a golden opportunity. Marc Casado could be the victim of Barcelona’s financial issues this summer, as a viable offer could tempt the club to consider a sale. Despite his breakthrough season under Hansi Flick, Casado has a €100 million release clause in his Barcelona contract, but the Catalan giants are reportedly willing to negotiate for far less.

Tactical Profile That Fits Mikel Arteta’s Vision

Marc Casado is a versatile defensive midfielder known for his stamina, tenacity, and tactical intelligence. His La Masia pedigree shines through in his technical ability and game intelligence, qualities that would seamlessly integrate into Arsenal’s possession-based system under Mikel Arteta.

At just 21, Casado plays as a defensive midfielder for Barcelona and the Spain national team, demonstrating his quality at the highest level. With experience at right-back and center-back, he excels at breaking up play, offering the positional versatility that Arteta values highly in his squad construction.

The young Spaniard’s ability to play multiple positions addresses Arsenal’s tactical needs perfectly. He can play both as a deep-lying and central midfielder, providing the flexibility to operate in different phases of play depending on the opponent. His capacity to drop between center-backs during build-up play would complement Arsenal’s progressive passing patterns.

Read More: Why Arsenal’s £1m Gamble on Igor Tyjon Could Be Their Next Academy Goldmine

Perfect Age Profile and Development Potential

Marc Casado is 21 years old, 172 cm tall, representing the ideal age profile for Arsenal’s long-term planning. Unlike aging alternatives in the market, Casado offers immediate impact potential while possessing years of development ahead of him.

Marc Casado enjoyed his breakthrough season at FC Barcelona under Hansi Flick, establishing himself as a key player during the injury-enforced absences of Frenkie de Jong and Marc Bernal. This experience of stepping up during crucial moments demonstrates the mental fortitude required for Arsenal’s title ambitions.

Marc Casado is targeted by Arsenal
Marc Casado (via Everything Barca)

His La Masia background provides additional assurance about his technical foundation. The Catalan midfielder has stood out throughout his time in youth development at Barça, becoming one of the leaders, suggesting natural leadership qualities that could prove valuable in Arsenal’s relatively young squad.

Financial Viability and Market Opportunity

The transfer represents excellent value in today’s inflated market. Casado’s market value stands at €30 million, while Arsenal are preparing a €40 million offer to sign the 21-year-old midfielder. This pricing represents a significant discount compared to established Premier League midfielders of similar quality.

Barcelona’s financial pressures work in Arsenal’s favor. The Catalan giants are reportedly willing to part ways with the player for a whopping sum of €50 million, paving the way for a potential blockbuster transfer as they strive to comply with La Liga’s financial regulations.

The Missing Piece

Arsenal’s midfield has lacked a natural defensive midfielder since the departure of Granit Xhaka. While Declan Rice has excelled in a more advanced role, Casado’s presence would allow Rice greater freedom to influence games in the final third. His ability to shield the defense while maintaining Barcelona’s trademark passing accuracy makes him an ideal fit for Arteta’s system.

Declan Rice
Declan Rice (via Hayters)

Arsenal have indicated an increasing interest in Barcelona midfielder Marc Casado and regard him as a valuable potential acquisition. With his combination of youth, technical ability, and positional intelligence, Casado represents exactly the type of signing that could elevate Arsenal’s title credentials for years to come.

Read More: Dusan Vlahovic to Arsenal: Scout Report + SWOT Analysis

Continue Reading

Home » Teams » Arsenal » “He’s a cheat”, “Thank God there’s VAR next season”: Some Arsenal fans left fuming after shock 3-2 loss vs Crystal Palace + Match report

Trending