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Arsenal sent two new players out into the starting XI in Lucas and Shkodran Mustafi, so let’s grade how the new Gunners did in their maiden voyage.
It’s always exciting to see a brand new player in an Arsenal kit for the first time. It has happened so infrequently lately. And to see it happening at two major problem areas for Wenger – striker and central defense – just adds to the mystique surrounding their arrivals.
The first match is always going to be difficult with nerves and getting used to a new style at a new team. Lucas and Shkodran Mustafi both showed a degree of nerves, but aside from that, we should be pleased. So let’s put it down to a grade, starting with the elder of the two.
Lucas: B+
I heard some scattered rumblings of discontent at Lucas’s debut on social media, so to make sure I had seen the right thing, I watched the game again. I don’t see where the problem is. The numbers will tell you that Lucas struggled. Our starting striker fired just one off target shot and, despite his chance-creation over in Spain, created none against Southampton.
For starters, he’s new to England, that’s to be expected (I feel like I’ve said that 18 times already). But even beyond that, you have to think of what it takes to get in sync with an offense like Arsenal’s, where the minds of Ozil and Cazorla are at work.
Related: 5 Late Bloomers Just Like Lucas
Lucas was almost in sync already. He looked a tad disjointed throughout, as his passes were a smidgen off and his link-up play was too. But you could see where his head was at, what he was trying to do and how wonderful it will be once he does sync up.
Plus, he did have a few near chances to score his first Arsenal goal on his debut. Again, it’s just a matter of time before those near chances turn into much more.
Shkodran Mustafi: A
Early in the game he fired a wayward pass, but that was just him doing his Calum Chambers impression (sorry Calum…). After that moment, the German looked like he’d been in this defense for quite some time. He had a few rusty moments, but nothing to think that he isn’t ready.
I pointed out in the ‘5 things we learned’ slideshow earlier today that I was so impressed by how well he and Koscielny were in sync. They had this unspoken understanding that kept the defense settled and kept Southampton from forming too much of a threat.
Plus, seeing someone of Mustafi’s athleticism next to Koscielny is an amazing sight that we will get to enjoy for years to come. So here’s to looking forward to that.
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