Mikel Arteta’s approach to tactics at Arsenal has always focused on keeping opponents uncertain about what to expect. During Arsenal’s pre-season tour in the USA in July 2023, he highlighted the importance of becoming “more unpredictable every year.” Yet, as the 2024/25 season progresses, questions are being raised over whether his tactical changes have genuinely brought unpredictability or if his strategies have become too predictable.
One of Arteta’s most notable tactical experiments has been positioning Kai Havertz as a No. 9. Originally intended to strengthen the midfield, Havertz has adjusted well as a forward, impressing with his ability to find space and connect plays. This shift, along with Declan Rice’s evolution into a more mobile, ball-winning midfielder, has added a dynamic layer to Arsenal’s midfield.
Arteta’s reliance on a 4-3-3 formation, transitioning to a 5-3-2 during attacking phases, is rooted in the principles of Total Football. This tactical structure compresses space in the opponent’s half and maintains a high defensive line.
However, this approach has made Arsenal’s play more predictable, especially when Arteta adopts a more defensive stance, compacting his team within the 20-yard box to protect leads. Opponents have started to anticipate Arsenal’s slower build-up and well-organized structure, particularly when facing high presses.
A key challenge for Arteta is finding ways to maximize the effectiveness of players like Bukayo Saka. Teams have learned to neutralize Saka’s cutting-in tactic by
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