How Leicester City flourished against an extremely poor Arsenal side

A partnered high-line becomes problematic as Jamie Vardy is always on the shoulder, awaiting one simple pass in-behind. Neither Shkodran Mustafi or Sokratis are fast enough to track the run if the right pass is made. Overall, this results in a midfield free to play the passes they feel like, with attackers having the entire freedom of the final third to make their runs in-behind Arsenal’s defence. More times than not, giving them a good shooting/crossing opportunity after a simple passing exchange rather than having to intricately play their way through a compact defensive unit, like Newcastle United and West Ham United had done the weeks prior.

Leicester, under Rodgers, have shown they’re strongest when playing expansively with the fullbacks making offensive runs, getting the best out of Ben Chilwell and Ricardo Pereira.

Arsenal composed their defence of four centre-back styled players (after the red card to Maitland-Niles); Lauren Koscielny, Sead Kolasinac, Shkodran Mustafi and Sokratis. This composition shows a lack of research on Emery’s behalf. Mustafi and Kolasinac didn’t stay close to their respective wingers, they defended like centre-backs. Dropping deep when out of possession and giving them too much space when one-on-one, respecting the qualities Marc Albrighton and Harvey Barnes posses without attempting to force their weaknesses (decision-making).

Mkhitaryan and Iwobi showed no intention of supporting the full-backs and struggled to track the runs of Chilwell and Pereira making the situation a two-on-one in Leicester’s favour. Adding to Emery’s woes; if he correctly identified the frailties, which is of course debatable due to his personnel choices.

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The entire game plan of Arsenal seemed uncoordinated. A bizarre performed which lacked belief, considering they had been presented a golden opportunity to push for the final Champions League spot after the results around them went in their favour.

Leicester City capitalised magnificently, arguably the most convincing performance all season, especially under Rodgers. Outlining just how important it is to sign Youri Tielemans on a permanent basis as he gets the best out of the players around him. According to Leicester Mercury there will be significant transfer business conducted by this summer by the Foxes.