Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is under pressure to make a crucial change to his attacking lineup ahead of a vital Premier League clash with Brentford, following direct advice from club icon David Seaman.
Seaman's Striker Verdict for Brentford Clash
The call comes after the league leaders were held to a 1-1 draw by a 10-man Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Sunday, a result that left Arteta frustrated despite maintaining a six-point cushion over their London rivals. With the title race intensifying, every point is critical, and Seaman believes the solution lies in deploying a traditional number nine.
Seaman has publicly urged Arteta to bench midfielder Mikel Merino and start summer signing Viktor Gyokeres against Brentford. Merino has filled in admirably as a makeshift forward during an injury crisis, even scoring the vital equaliser against Chelsea with a superb header. However, the former Arsenal goalkeeper argues the team now needs a different profile.
"He has done a decent job, but when you look at Merino, he’s more of a false nine; he drops back quite a lot," Seaman told talkSPORT. "When you’ve got Gyokeres in there, he’s an out-and-out striker. He gives you that option of holding the ball up and letting us get out."
Arteta's Welcome Selection Headache
The manager's dilemma is a sign of the squad's returning strength. Gyokeres and Gabriel Jesus are now back from injury, while Kai Havertz is nearing full fitness, giving Arteta multiple options for the first time in weeks. This presents both a luxury and a tactical challenge for the Spanish coach.
Seaman emphasised that Gyokeres, who came close to scoring a winner at Chelsea, offers the physical presence and penalty-box focus that Arsenal have sometimes lacked. The Swedish striker's style could be key to breaking down stubborn defences like Brentford's as the Gunners chase their first Premier League crown since the 2004 'Invincibles' season.
The debate centres on system preference: "Are they going to play with an out-and-out striker, or do they want to pack the midfield that little bit more? If that’s what you want to do, then Merino stays in there, but for me, I’d play Gyokeres," Seaman concluded.
On-Field Battle and Off-Field Fine
Arsenal's match at Brentford is an opportunity to regain winning momentum after a demanding run of fixtures that included a win over Tottenham and a Champions League tie against Bayern Munich.
In a separate development, the club is also facing a substantial financial penalty from the Football Association following the fiery Chelsea draw. The Premier League's official match report showed referee Anthony Taylor issued seven yellow cards, with six going to Arsenal players—three of which were awarded within the first half-hour.
All eyes will now be on Arteta's team sheet as Arsenal navigate a tight title race, with legends like Seaman making their opinions on the best path forward loudly clear.
