A scoring start to the season was just what Alexandre Lacazette needed. With Arsenal reportedly needing to sell to recruit reinforcements, Lacazette was a rumoured make-way for new players.
A then club-record signing, in 2017 from Lyon, he has two years left on his current deal, making this season pivotal in his Arsenal career. If performances aren’t up to the standard of manager Mikel Arteta, the Frenchman could depart next summer.
The signing of Thomas Partey can be the move that helps Arteta switch to a favourable 4-3-3, which he worked on so well with at Manchester City. Arsenal have very flexible forward options, putting Lacazette’s starting role at risk.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has been a regular down the left, but when Gabriel Martinelli returns he could move back down the middle. Eddie Nketiah came in for Lacazette against Sheffield United as he did frequently during project restart.
Under Unai Emery, Lacazette scored vital goals in big games, Liverpool, Tottenham, Chelsea and Valencia for example. But last season struggled scoring just 10, which shows a decrease every season since he signed. His physical presence is vital away from home, using his exceptional hold-up play to bring the side further up the pitch.
However, from February ‘19 to July ‘20, he went 16 away games without scoring. With the various attacking options available, if Lacazette isn’t providing enough goals, Arteta has proved he’s ruthless enough to drop him.
That goal against Tottenham in project restart, his performances in the semi-final and final of the FA Cup. That is evidence of all the qualities Lacazette can bring to the team. He has began by hitting the back of the net, but he can’t have too many moments like that one-on-one at Anfield.
It’s now or never this season for Alexandre Lacazette.
Sam Tonks 