**Merino: Arteta's Arsenal Plays Like Basketball**

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Post on Oct 22, 2024

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Merino: Arteta's Arsenal Plays Like Basketball

Yo, it's like this: Arsenal under Arteta has become a total game-changer, and it's all about that basketball-style play. Let's break down how they're dominating the pitch with a bunch of fast breaks and slick passes.

The Arsenal "Fast Break"

Forget that slow, methodical build-up. Arteta has injected pure speed and aggression into the Gunners' game. Think quick transitions after winning the ball, exploiting spaces behind the opposition, and diagonal balls finding runners on the wings. It's like watching a team of NBA players on the court, man!

Example: Imagine Arsenal snatching the ball in midfield. They're not just going to pass it around, they're gonna launch it forward like a rocket, looking for that killer through ball to a striker. The forwards are constantly making runs in behind the defense, ready to explode past the last man and score.

The "Pick and Roll"

Another key part of Arteta's tactics is the "pick and roll" move that we see in basketball. It's basically where a midfielder drops back to draw the defender, leaving their partner free to make a run into the box. This creates a mismatch and a dangerous scoring opportunity.

Example: Think of Xhaka and Saka. Xhaka drops deep, drawing the defender towards him, then Saka shoots off like a bullet towards the goal. The defender is stuck between a rock and a hard place, leaving Saka open to receive a pass and shoot!

The "Triangle Offense"

Arsenal are also using the "triangle offense", a classic basketball move that focuses on fluid ball movement and creating opportunities for teammates. It's a strategy that can confuse the opposition with its constant flow and changes in direction.

Example: Imagine Arsenal in their attacking third. The ball is passed between three players in a triangular formation, drawing defenders towards one another and creating space for a fourth player to make a decisive run into the penalty box. It's all about making quick, smart decisions and keeping the ball moving.

More Than Just Tactics

It's not just the tactics, though. It's also about the mentality of the Arsenal players. They're playing with passion, aggression, and a winning spirit. It's infectious and inspiring for the fans, creating a buzz and energy that's hard to match.

So, yeah, Arsenal under Arteta is a sight to behold. They're playing football like it's basketball, and it's working like a charm! It's fast, it's exciting, and it's changing the game.