Arsenal
In Wenger We Trust Or In Wenger We Rust?
Arsene Wenger, the man to have revolutionized the “English football” way by his vision, tactics, training methods and dietary plans for players is being shunned and called names by the Arsenal faithful as they grow increasingly frustrated with the team’s almost 8 years of no trophies. One can argue what they like about Arsenal playing the best football in England, but with no trophies to show for it, one cannot blame Arsenal fans.
Arsenal are said to have one of the best youth systems as it has been proven time and again.
“We do not buy superstars. We make them.” – Arsene Wenger
Does Wenger deserve this?
It is the truth, they have brought players with immense potential and made them into superstars. Arsenal were a team everyone looked up to. They had that aura about them especially in the season of 2003-04 when they went on to become champions of English and too being undefeated in an entire season. So what has happened now?
Arsenal have always been competitive and near about to the top of the Premier League and cup runs , but I do wonder after at least 4 seasons without a trophy, why didn’t Arsene look to win the League cup and especially with the young players at his disposal he could have. The answer is that Arsenal are a “BIG” club, and with no disrespect to the trophy, Arsene played the team he thought could win the match and gave experience to his fringe players in the competition much like any other club does. He has been backed by players all throughout his career and has made kids look like footballing legends that your mother used to tell you about. Take Jack Wilshere, let alone his talent, Wenger has used him well and has made him what he is today – if not THE BEST , one of the best 21 year old midfielders out there. This example was used for people who have just recently started watching the beautiful game. Fabregas is another example.
Now one may argue that Arsenal have sold their best players in recent seasons which started with Thierry Henry being sold to Barcelona in 2007 but do Arsenal still lack the talent to win any trophies? I beg to differ. Any team would feel the loss of Samir Nasri, Cesc Fabregas, Robin van Persie being sold in the space of two seasons and no marquee signings to make up for that. Arsene Wenger has bought players with enough potential and promoted players he thinks are good enough. Every season starts with Arsenal doing well and everyone lauding Arsene’s vision with players and then around the new year’s time they faulter and Wenger is the villain. It is what some players have voiced too, the concern is with the selling policy but that comes down the Arsenal board. With rival clubs spending and growing big and especially since Tottenham Hotspur coming closer to Arsenal by the day, fans would love to stay above them and watch the “old” Arsenal that used to have them in their awe.
Arsenal’s current squad is good enough to win at least one of the domestic cups in the English region but again they crashed out. It is not the manager but the board that doesn’t support the club going forward with Arsenal shareholder Alisher Usmanov ( world’s 28th richest person ) claiming that Arsenal legend Henry wants him to buy out the rest of the club too. I follow the no player is bigger than the club policy but Ivan Gazidis has failed as the CEO of the club and it is not Wenger who deserves the wrath of the fans but the board and the players.
Wilshere recently claimed that Wenger was not to be blamed but it was the players which is also true. Just when Arsenal conceded against Bayern in their Champions League tie, all I could see is Per Mertesacker looking for ways to give away the ball and just get it done with it. Only few players like Jack Wilshere and Theo Walcott were trying to play for the club, the crest in front of the jersey and not the name at the back of it. Wenger surely has not lost the plot . What he has lost it, a decent Arsenal board, a fray of players that love the club more than themselves. It can be argued that it is the manager that motivates the team and players to do better. Which is the truth, considering Everton do so well in the current season. Arsene Wenger is at blame too, but not as much as the abuse he is getting from fans and celebrity fans like Piers Morgan who thinks just because he is a celebrity, his non-footballing opinion matters.
Every club has a tough time and no manager could love the club more than Arsene Wenger does. A strong CEO and a couple of summer signings and watch Arsenal be back to their best. Arsene Wenger has made Arsenal what they are today. Well the good and the bad and it is him who will bring them back to where they were. I along with everyone wants the same. So let’s hope with some magic Arsenal sign a couple of players that are desperately needed while the new players realize what it means to be an Arsenal player and do well. Maybe some 2-3 DVDs of season reviews would help them.
Arsenal Dragon
Three Years, Eight Months and 10 Days: Arsenal Stalemate Ends ‘This’ Run For Tottenham Which Began Way Back in 2022
Tottenham Women’s extraordinary 81-game streak without a goalless draw in the WSL finally ended on Sunday after a disciplined 0-0 stalemate against Arsenal at Brisbane Road.
The remarkable run spanning three years, eight months and 10 days represented one of the most unusual statistical quirks in women’s football, stretching all the way back to March 2022.
Tottenham’s Remarkable 81-Game Run Without Goalless Draw Finally Ends in Arsenal Stalemate After 1,346 Days
Tottenham’s last goalless draw before Sunday came against Reading on March 13, 2022. The statistics are staggering. Across 69 complete league matches spanning the 2022/23, 2023/24 and 2024/25 seasons, Tottenham never failed to find the net or concede.
Sunday’s result at Brisbane Road broke that pattern in front of a record-breaking 6,778 fans who witnessed a tactical battle where neither attack could break through. Arsenal dominated possession and registered 13 shots but found Tottenham’s defensive organization impenetrable.
Defensive Foundation for Impressive Campaign
The clean sheet showcased the defensive progress under manager Robert Vilahamn. Goalkeeper Lize Kop and her backline recorded their fourth WSL clean sheet of the campaign—six across all competitions, matching Chelsea’s Hannah Hampton for the joint-highest tally in the division at this stage.
Tottenham’s start to the 2025/26 season has exceeded expectations. They sit fifth in the table with 16 points from nine matches, just four points shy of last season’s entire total achieved across 22 games.
The point gained in the north London derby felt like a significant statement. Tottenham frustrated their fierce rivals whilst ending a statistical anomaly that had defined their recent WSL existence.
Whether this signals a tactical evolution towards greater defensive discipline or simply represents a one-off remains to be seen, but the 1,346-day wait for another goalless draw has finally concluded.
Read More: 3 Things We Learned From Arsenal Women’s Frustrating 0-0 Draw Against Tottenham Women
Player Profile
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Yan Diomande |
| Age | 19 years old (Born: November 14, 2006) |
| Position | Left Winger / Right Winger |
| Current Club | RB Leipzig |
| Height | Not publicly disclosed |
| Preferred Foot | Right |
| Contract | Until June 2030 (5-year deal) |
| Market Value | €100 million (Leipzig valuation) |
| Transfer Fee Paid | €20 million (from Leganes, July 2025) |
| International | Ivory Coast (2 caps, 2 goals) |
| Previous Clubs | Leganes, DME Academy (USA) |
Scout Report
Overview
Yan Diomande represents one of European football’s most remarkable breakout stories in 2025-26. The 19-year-old Ivorian winger has exploded onto the Bundesliga scene just months after RB Leipzig activated his €20 million release clause from Spanish second-tier side Leganes. His four goals and three assists in 10 appearances have attracted interest from Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United, Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, Barcelona, and PSG.
Career Path
Diomande’s journey began in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, before his family relocated to the United States. He played high school football for Yulee Hornets in Florida before enrolling at DME Academy in Daytona Beach, where scouts first noticed his raw talent.
He featured for DME’s affiliate AS Frenzi in the amateur UPSL, winning the 2023 United Premier Soccer League Premier Division and earning 2023 STARI Player of the Year honors.
After unsuccessful trials with MLS sides Colorado Rapids and Charlotte FC, plus Scottish giants Rangers and clubs in England and Greece, Diomande signed with Leganes in November 2024. Shortly before his move to Spain, tragedy struck when his younger sister passed away. “My little sister died shortly before I signed my contract in Spain,” Diomande revealed. He promised his mother to dedicate his next goal to her, breaking down emotionally when scoring his first professional goal in May 2025 against Espanyol.
He made just seven appearances for Leganes before Leipzig identified him as a future star, paying his €20 million release clause in July 2025 and securing him on a five-year contract through June 2030.
Playing Style
Diomande operates primarily as a left winger despite being right-footed, allowing him to cut inside and create shooting opportunities. His technical ability in tight spaces, combined with sharp movement and creativity, makes him dangerous when receiving possession in advanced positions.
His purple patch of form has been extraordinary—scoring three goals in three consecutive games while registering three assists in his last three outings. These numbers reflect either a hot streak or genuine elite quality emerging. Time will determine which, but his current trajectory suggests the latter.
Diomande’s versatility allows him to play on both flanks and feature in midfield, offering tactical flexibility managers crave. His attacking awareness and eye for goal have impressed scouts across Europe, particularly during his Player of the Match performance against Stuttgart where he scored in a 3-1 victory in front of numerous observers.
Physical Attributes
While specific height and weight measurements aren’t publicly available, match footage shows Diomande possesses the pace and agility needed to beat defenders one-on-one. His quick feet and ability to change direction rapidly make him difficult to contain in wide areas.
His stamina allows him to maintain intensity across 90 minutes, pressing defensively when required while making repeated attacking runs. This work rate aligns with modern winger expectations at elite clubs like Arsenal.
Mental Attributes
Diomande’s mental strength is remarkable considering his age and recent personal tragedy. Making his senior Ivory Coast debut in November 2025 and scoring in both of his first two international appearances demonstrates confidence and composure under pressure.
His ability to dedicate his first professional goal to his late sister while maintaining emotional control shows maturity beyond his teenage years. This psychological resilience will prove crucial if he moves to the Premier League’s intense environment.
Diomande’s willingness to relocate from the United States to Spain, then Germany within 12 months demonstrates adaptability and ambition unusual for teenagers. Most players his age prefer stability, but Diomande chases opportunities aggressively.
SWOT Analysis
Strengths
Explosive Form: Four goals and three assists in 10 Bundesliga appearances represents exceptional output for an 19-year-old winger in his debut season at a major European league. His recent run of three goals and three assists in consecutive matches suggests genuine quality rather than lucky variance.
International Recognition: Earning senior Ivory Coast caps within months of his Leipzig debut validates his talent beyond just club performances. Scoring in both international appearances demonstrates he produces at multiple competitive levels.
Versatility Across Forward Line: Can operate on both wings and in midfield, providing tactical flexibility managers value. This adaptability allows rotation without dropping quality, crucial for squads competing across multiple competitions.
Youth and Resale Value: At 19, Diomande offers 10-12 years of peak football. Any club signing him secures an asset that appreciates if his development continues, protecting investment even if he doesn’t work out immediately.
Technical Security: His quick feet and calm touch in tight areas allow him to receive possession under pressure and eliminate defenders with close control. This technical foundation suggests he’ll adapt to Premier League physicality.
No Release Clause: Leipzig removed any release clause from his contract, meaning they control negotiations completely. This provides contract security while allowing Leipzig to demand maximum value if selling.
Proven Adaptability: Successfully transitioning from American high school football to Spanish segunda division to Bundesliga within 18 months demonstrates rapid learning curve and mental resilience unusual for teenagers.
Weaknesses
Extremely Limited Sample Size: 10 professional appearances at elite level represents insufficient data to project long-term trajectory. Many players produce excellent short-term numbers before regression toward mean performance levels.
Physical Profile Unknown: Lack of publicly available height, weight, and athletic metrics makes comprehensive scouting difficult. Premier League demands specific physical attributes, and insufficient information exists to project his suitability.
Unproven Against Elite Opposition: Has yet to face Champions League football or genuine top-tier defensive systems. Bundesliga provides competitive environment but differs significantly from Premier League’s intensity and tactical sophistication.
Potential Purple Patch Player: His recent three-goal, three-assist run in consecutive matches could represent variance rather than sustainable performance. History shows many players produce excellent short periods before fading.
Adaptation Risk: Moving from high school football to Bundesliga in under two years seems remarkable, but Premier League represents another significant step up. Players often struggle when making too many transitions quickly without consolidation periods.
Age and Development Uncertainty: At 19, predicting his ceiling remains speculative. Physical and technical development could plateau, or injuries could derail trajectory before reaching predicted potential.
Language Barriers: Has relocated from United States to Spain to Germany within 18 months, potentially speaking limited Spanish and German fluently. Communication challenges could impact tactical understanding and integration.
Opportunities
Gabriel Martinelli’s Injury: Arsenal’s Brazilian winger has been sidelined with a thigh injury since October 26, creating immediate vacancy on the left wing. Diomande’s profile fits this position perfectly.
Gabriel Jesus’ Fitness Issues: Arsenal’s backup striker continues struggling with injury problems. Diomande’s ability to play multiple forward positions provides cover across attacking line.
Noni Madueke’s Knee Injury: The Chelsea transfer suffered knee problems after joining Arsenal last summer, highlighting squad depth concerns. Adding another winger addresses this vulnerability.
January Transfer Window Timing: Arsenal sit top of the Premier League and could use January reinforcement to consolidate position. Diomande’s form makes him available target during crucial period.
Leipzig’s Sales History: The German club has track record of selling young talents to Premier League—Benjamin Sesko, Josko Gvardiol, Dominik Szoboszlai all made similar moves recently. Leipzig understand Premier League valuations.
Reduced Competition in January: Many clubs wait until summer to pursue targets. Acting in January could secure Diomande before bidding war intensifies with Real Madrid, Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and PSG all interested.
Ivory Coast AFCON Participation: If selected for upcoming Africa Cup of Nations, Diomande gains additional platform to showcase abilities. Strong tournament performance would increase Arsenal’s confidence in investment.
Comparable to Erling Haaland Trajectory: Experts suggest Diomande could become Leipzig’s most valuable player since Haaland. If comparisons prove accurate, any price paid now will seem bargain within 18 months.
Threats
€100 Million Valuation: Leipzig reportedly value Diomande at €100 million despite paying just €20 million six months ago. This 500% markup seems unrealistic for player with 10 senior appearances, creating negotiation impasse.
Overwhelming Competition: Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United, Tottenham, Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, and PSG all monitoring him. Competition from clubs with deeper pockets threatens any deal.
Leipzig’s Development Track Record: RB Leipzig specializes in developing young talents before selling at premium prices. Diomande might benefit more from staying in Germany to consolidate development before Premier League move.
Premier League Adaptation Concerns: Transition from Bundesliga to Premier League has destroyed many promising careers. Physical intensity, tactical sophistication, and pressure differ significantly from German football.
No Guarantee of Playing Time: At Arsenal, Diomande would compete with Saka, Martinelli, Madueke, Eze, and Trossard for minutes. Lack of guaranteed starts could stunt development or create frustration leading to departure demands.
Contract Length Until 2030: Leipzig hold all negotiating leverage with five years remaining. They can demand astronomical fees knowing Diomande cannot force exit through contract pressure.
Potential For Overvaluation: His €100 million reported valuation after 10 appearances represents extreme overvaluation unless he becomes generational talent. Arsenal risk overpaying for potential that never materializes.
Personal Tragedy Impact: Losing his sister shortly before turning professional could have long-term psychological effects not yet apparent. Mental health challenges sometimes emerge months or years after traumatic events.
Verdict for Arsenal
Yan Diomande represents exactly the profile Arsenal typically pursue—young, talented, technically secure, and capable of playing multiple positions. His explosive start at Leipzig validates his potential as future elite winger.
However, the €100 million valuation after just 10 senior appearances represents insane overvaluation that Arsenal should reject immediately. Paying that sum for unproven teenager with such limited sample size would be financial malpractice regardless of talent.
If Leipzig reduce demands to €40-50 million, conversation becomes more reasonable. At that price, Arsenal acquire a prospect with genuine upside while maintaining financial flexibility for other positions.
The timing feels premature. Diomande should consolidate his Bundesliga performances across full season before making another significant move. Jumping from high school to segunda division to Bundesliga to Premier League within three years risks overwhelming development with too many transitions.
Arsenal’s left-wing situation isn’t desperate enough to justify €100 million gamble. Martinelli will return from injury, Eze can cover, and Trossard provides experience. Investing that sum in proven talent like Rafael Leao or Antoine Griezmann makes more strategic sense if addressing immediate title ambitions.
Summer 2026 represents better timing. By then, Diomande will have full Bundesliga season completed, providing larger sample size for evaluation. His valuation might decrease if form regresses, or Arsenal’s conviction strengthens if he maintains production.
Rating: 7/10 transfer prospect for summer 2026, 4/10 for January 2026—exciting talent with genuine potential but premature timing and unrealistic valuation make immediate move illogical.
Read More:
Arsenal
Bukayo Saka Names Former Arsenal Star as Best Player He’s Played With Despite Kane and Rice Options
Bukayo Saka overlooked current Arsenal teammates and England stars to name Mesut Ozil as the best player he’s shared a pitch with during his career. The 24-year-old’s choice surprised many given he’s played alongside Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, Declan Rice, and Phil Foden at international level.
Speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live, Saka was unequivocal when asked about his best teammate. “Maybe Mesut Ozil. High quality player, man. It was just fun, hard to describe it. Fun to play with him, fun to watch him.”
The endorsement holds particular weight considering Saka played just 17 matches alongside Özil during the 2018-19 and 2019-20 seasons. His Arsenal debut came in December 2018 against Qarabağ FK, where the then-17-year-old earned Player of the Match honors in a match decided by Özil’s assist for the game’s only goal.
Mesut Ozil Was Instrumental in Arsenal’s Multiple FA Cup Success
Özil joined Arsenal from Real Madrid in 2013, accumulating 44 goals and 77 assists across 254 appearances. His 19 Premier League assists during the 2015-16 season remain second only to Thierry Henry in Arsenal history, demonstrating the creative excellence that captivated young Saka.
The German playmaker helped Arsenal secure four FA Cup titles, breaking their nine-year trophy drought. However, his Arsenal career ended controversially after publicly criticizing China’s human rights policies in 2019, leading to marginalization under Mikel Arteta and eventual departure to Fenerbahce in January 2021.
Saka’s choice becomes more intriguing when considering Martin Ødegaard has already surpassed Özil’s Premier League goal total despite playing 3,000 fewer minutes. Yet the England international’s admiration for Özil’s effortless quality clearly left an indelible impression during those brief 17 matches together.
Özil retired from professional football in March 2023 after spells with Fenerbahce and İstanbul Başakşehir. He joined Turkey’s ruling Justice and Development Party’s central council in 2025, pursuing political interests alongside business ventures including esports and Mexican club Necaxa ownership.
Also Read: Gabriel Magalhaes Suffers Injury During International Break: What Do We Know So Far?
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