Arsenal: Mikel Arteta’s midfield beginning to take shape

The Gunners have had a few positive results since the arrival of Mikel Arteta as the manager.

Languishing among the relegation candidates, an out-of-sorts Arsenal squad got some much-needed boost after Mikel Arteta took over the reins from Freddie Lujnberg as the permanent coach. Despite the upliftment of mood, there have been a few performances which have sparked intense scrutiny over the London club’s direction.

But, amid the inconsistent showing under the newly-appointed boss, the vision has been clear- which revolves around a strong core built on youth which gradually educates itself to be worthy of a spot among the elite bracket of European clubs.

Despite the optimistic journey which Arsenal have embarked on under Mikel Arteta, there ought to be minor bumps due to inconsistency which comes with the mentorship of emerging talents – who take time acclimatising to rigorous demands in each game.

Also, to ensure the upcoming talents are well-groomed for the future, a steady stream of experienced heads to cordon the crop, ensuring the right habits which formulate the winning habit are instilled.

In that respect, David Luiz, Granit Xhaka, Mesut Ozil, and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang have been a vociferous presence in the dressing room. Among these, a few could be shuffled in the transfer window this summer.

Before any other position, Arteta is keen to address the central midfield, citing the engine room as the area which needs to be a thriving unit to execute his blueprint. For that, a few important decisions await the Arsenal board.

Dani Ceballos poised for a prolonged stay at the club

On loan from Real Madrid, Dani Ceballos, similar to Arsenal, has endured a disjointed campaign, After an emphatic start under Unai Emery, injury issues and dip of form made the 23-year-old lose his starting spot.

Shoving his setbacks aside, the former Real Betis midfielder has regained his place in the matchday squad, earning Arteta’s trust in the process. Now, eager to continue the chapter, Arsenal are deemed close to agreeing on another loan with Real Madrid for the services of Dani Ceballos.

"Ceballos is out of favour with Real boss Zinedine Zidane and the Spanish giants would look to sell him as an opportunity to raise cash to dip into the transfer market. But, with limited interest in taking Ceballos on a permanent basis, it is believed a loan deal for another 12 months between Arsenal and Ceballos is ‘almost done’. (AS via Daily Mail)"