Victor Osimhen, the Super Eagles forward on loan at Turkish giants Galatasaray, has been in scintillating form this season. With 14 goals and five assists in 18 appearances for the Turkish champions, it’s no wonder that he’s attracting interest from top European clubs, including Arsenal.
While his goal-scoring prowess is undeniable, questions arise as to whether he would truly be the solution to Arsenal's attacking struggles.
To better understand the implications of this potential signing, it's crucial to evaluate the team's current needs and how Osimhen’s style might align with the system the Spanish manager has implemented at Arsenal.
Arsenal's need for creative solutions over a pure goal-scorer
Arsenal’s attacking struggles this season have been exacerbated by the absence of their key creative player, Bukayo Saka.
Before his injury, Saka had an impressive tally of five goals, 10 assists, and 42 chances created in just 16 Premier League games. His ability to create opportunities and break down defenses was a crucial part of Arteta's system.
Without him, the team has struggled to replicate that level of creativity, highlighting the need for a player who can consistently supply service into the box for the forwards.
Osimhen’s proven ability to find the back of the net is not in question. However, Arsenal’s possession-heavy, patient approach may not align with Osimhen's playing style.
The towering forward thrives on quick, direct passes into the box and has often been at his best in a system where balls are played to him on the move. Arsenal’s approach, in contrast, involves a more methodical build-up, with an emphasis on short passing and recycling possession.
Given that, would Osimhen’s directness be stifled in this kind of setup? Would his impact be diminished?
Does Osimhen fit in Arsenal’s possession-based play?
Arsenal's current system might see Osimhen struggling to thrive in the way he does at Galatasaray, where he benefits from quick, aggressive transitions.
His lack of involvement in deeper link-up play could further limit his impact in Arteta's system, where forwards are often expected to contribute more than just goals.
Moreover, Arsenal’s issue is not just scoring goals but creating the right opportunities. The Gunners are in dire need of a creative wide player who can deliver consistent crosses into the box—something that would complement a striker like Osimhen, who thrives on crosses and quick, early balls into the box.
A dynamic winger who can break down defensive lines and supply key passes into the penalty area might be more of a priority for Arsenal than another forward.
While Osimhen could potentially improve Arsenal’s attacking options, a creative, wide player would be a more immediate and fitting solution to the team’s needs.
