The £35 million signing of German international Shkodran Mustafi, Arsenal’s fourth signing of the summer after Granit Xhaka, Rob Holding and Lucas Perez, signals an almost unheard-of wealth of experience and talent in Arsenal’s backline.
Laurent Koscielny and Per Mertesacker provide experience, whilst Gabriel, Claum Chambers and Rob Holding are examples of raw talent. Mustafi comes into the side as presumably a first team starter and at age 24, he is likely to grow into his role over the years.
Six centre-backs (excluding Nacho Monreal who can fill in) may seem excessive, but with Gabriel and Mertesacker out until the new year, and accounting for the annual injury pile up, it may be necessary. Mustafi’s deal was preceded by Calum Chambers going out on loan to Hull, an important move in the young defender’s development.
I’ve taken a look at Arsenal’s defensive pecking order and best combinations at the back:
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