Where Does Guimaraes Fit in at Arsenal?

The signing of Bruno Guimaraes by Arsenal has sparked debate about how Mikel Arteta will deploy his new midfielder. On the surface, Guimaraes seems like a perfect fit for Arteta’s team: a player who can dominate and destroy at the base of midfield, but also score and create goals with his passing ability.

However, scratch beneath the surface and you’ll find that Guimaraes’ arrival presents Arteta with several conundrums. The new signing is capable of playing in multiple positions, which means he can be used to great effect in different roles. But it also raises questions about where he fits into the team’s existing midfield structure.

One option would be for Arteta to use Guimaraes as a deep-lying midfielder, sitting alongside Martin Zubimendi in a double pivot. This would allow him to bring his defensive qualities to the fore and provide cover for the full-backs. However, it also means that Arsenal are essentially replicating a midfield duo they already have - Declan Rice and Zubimendi.

Alternatively, Arteta could use Guimaraes as a more advanced No 8, allowing him to get forward and support the attackers. This would be in line with his preferred playing style, but it also means that Arsenal are relying on one player to do too much. The demands of the Premier League mean that teams need strong squad depth rather than individual brilliance.

The other option is for Arteta to use Guimaraes in a hybrid role, playing him alongside Rice as part of a double pivot. This would allow Arsenal to combine physicality with flair and provide a more balanced midfield unit. However, it also means the team are taking a risk - what if Guimaraes doesn’t adapt to this new role?

Arteta’s greatest challenge is not finding a specific position for Guimaraes but creating a cohesive midfield structure that allows him to flourish. This task is complicated by Arsenal having spent big on several players in recent years and struggling to integrate them into their existing squad.

One thing Arteta has going for him is his willingness to adapt and change his approach. He has shown time and again that he’s not afraid to try new things, even if it means sacrificing familiarity. When it comes to Guimaraes, the key will be finding a balance between giving him the freedom to express himself while also providing necessary structure and discipline.

Ultimately, Arteta’s success with Guimaraes will depend on his ability to get the best out of him in different roles while creating a cohesive team around him. It won’t be easy - but it’s a challenge that he relishes, and one that could ultimately define the course of Arsenal’s season.

The Double Pivot: A Necessary Evil?

Using Guimaraes as part of a double pivot alongside Declan Rice or Martin Zubimendi would allow him to bring his defensive qualities to the fore while providing cover for the full-backs. However, this system can be vulnerable to counter-attacks if not executed properly.

Several teams have experimented with double pivots in recent years - Manchester City, Liverpool, and Chelsea are notable examples. But these teams have deep squads and extensive resources at their disposal. For Arsenal, using a double pivot would require sacrificing some of their attacking flair in order to gain greater solidity in midfield.

But it’s not just about the system itself; it’s also about the players Arteta has available to him. Guimaraes is a versatile player who can play multiple positions but needs to be managed carefully. If Arteta decides to use him as part of a double pivot, he’ll need to ensure that he’s not overplaying him or putting too much pressure on his shoulders.

Rice and Guimaraes: A Perfect Pairing?

One thing that might work in Arsenal’s favor is the pairing of Declan Rice and Bruno Guimaraes. Both players have shown their ability to get up and down the pitch, winning the ball back and distributing it effectively. They also possess a strong defensive work rate, which would allow them to provide cover for each other.

What really sets them apart is their passing range - both players have an uncanny ability to pick out a pass from deep midfield. Together, they would form a formidable partnership that could dominate central midfield for long periods.

Arteta will also need to consider the role of Martin Odegaard, who has been instrumental in providing creativity and attacking flair for Arsenal over the past two seasons. Can he continue to play as a pure No 10, or will Guimaraes and Rice take on some of those responsibilities?