With Arsenal really dependent on a framework that has made key stars somewhat dependent and lack of effort. However, Mikel Arteta has quelled this mindset by building a highly competitive squad.
Even a quality player like Emile Smith Rowe is now on the bench. The England international has often played on the wrong side this season, however, the sublimation of Gabriel Martinelli has made him gradually lose the opportunity.
Smith Rowe is holding the number 10 Arsenal shirt.
In fact, Smith Rowe still makes an impact from the bench, scoring three goals in three games as a substitute against West Ham, Leeds United and Norwich City. But after the January transfer window ends, the competition for the attacking midfielder position and left wing is likely to become more fierce, when it is reported that Arsenal are about to sign another No 10.
Journalist Albert Roge, an expert on news surrounding Barcelona and La Masia academy, has confirmed the North London team wants to borrow Philippe Coutinho.
On his personal Twitter status, Roge made an announcement: “Arsenal are considering a loan without a mandatory purchase option for Coutinho.”
The arrival of Coutinho will affect the starting opportunity for Smith Rowe.
Director Edu believes that recruiting the former Liverpool star will significantly improve the ability to create mutations in the club’s play. But the above transfer plan will also bring a downside, because surely Coutinho’s presence will directly affect the frequency of appearances for Smith Rowe and Martin Odegaard. Not to mention, they also have another potential backup plan, which is Charlie Patino.
Overall, bringing Coutinho to Emirates not only goes against the club’s transfer principle, when they only focus on targets aged 24 and under, but also wastes salary funds. While Arsenal really need a quality central midfielder to fill the gap left by Thomas Partey.
Further, if Arteta regularly gives Coutinho opportunities, Smith Rowe’s development will be interrupted and does not exclude the possibility that the star born in 2000 will find a suitable destination, similar to the case of Ainsley Maitland-Niles – who is about to move to AS Roma.
