Arsenal is set for a crucial 2024/25 season as they attempt to surpass Manchester City at the pinnacle of the Premier League. With Pep Guardiola potentially entering his final season in Manchester, the pressure is on Mikel Arteta to capitalize on this opportunity and challenge the team he once helped build.
Strengthening the Squad
Recent Additions
- Riccardo Calafiori: Arsenal’s focus this transfer window has been on strengthening the defense, bringing in Calafiori, a left-sided defender from Bologna.
- Midfield Reinforcement: Arsenal is in the market for a central midfielder, with PSG’s Fabian Ruiz emerging as a key target after his standout performances at Euro 2024.
Comparing Key Midfield Targets: Fabian Ruiz vs. Martin Odegaard
Ball Retention
Martin Odegaard:
- Passing: Odegaard has evolved into a deeper-lying playmaker, attempting 58.5 passes per 90 minutes with a completion rate of 84.3%.
- Dispossession: He was dispossessed 1.69 times per 90 minutes in the Premier League.
Fabian Ruiz:
- Passing: Ruiz attempted 65.6 passes per 90 minutes in Ligue 1 with a success rate of 89.2%.
- Dispossession: Remarkably difficult to dispossess, with just 0.23 times per 90 minutes last season.
Playmaking
Martin Odegaard:
- Role: Primarily a number 10, now capable of influencing all phases of play.
- Assists and Creativity: Registered 10 Premier League assists and 6.41 shot-creating actions per 90 minutes.
Fabian Ruiz:
- Role: Box-to-box midfielder, not a natural assist provider but excellent at penetrating defenses.
- Assists and Creativity: Averaged 3.01 shot-creating actions per 90 minutes, with a highest single-season assist tally of six.
Goalscoring
Martin Odegaard:
- Scoring Record: Scored 23 Premier League goals in the past two seasons, known for his precise finishing.
- Expected Goals: Has consistently matched or exceeded his expected goals.
Fabian Ruiz:
- Scoring Record: Scored four Ligue 1 goals in two years at PSG.
- Potential: Showed potential for more scoring with crucial goals at Euro 2024.
Out of Possession
Martin Odegaard:
- Defensive Contribution: Leads Arsenal’s pressing from the front, contributing significantly to their defensive efforts.
- Defensive Stats: 1.92 tackles and interceptions per 90 minutes in the Premier League.
Fabian Ruiz:
- Defensive Contribution: More imposing and adept in midfield duels.
- Defensive Stats: Recorded 3.38 tackles and interceptions per 90 minutes in Ligue 1.
Tactical Fit
If Arsenal secures Fabian Ruiz, he would likely partner Declan Rice in a midfield pivot, providing both defensive solidity and progressive play. Odegaard would continue leading the press and orchestrating play in the attacking third.
Conclusion
Arsenal’s pursuit of Fabian Ruiz highlights their ambition to refine an already strong squad. With strategic signings and tactical adjustments, Mikel Arteta aims to finally topple Manchester City and secure Premier League glory.
