Arsenal: David Luiz’s contract extension was a huge surprise

The pandemic forced unnecessary dealings for every club around Europe – until today, clubs are still struggling with their business strategies.

One of the reasons Arsenal had to settle with a David Luiz extension was because of their financial status brought on by the outbreak of COVID-19. But judging by their league position, do you think a young man would have done any worse?

Look at Liverpool and what Jurgen Klopp has had to work with without having his first-choice centre-backs healthy for selection. He had a 20-year-old and 24-year-old pairing in a must-win match in the fight for top four against Manchester United on Thursday night past.

They beat their closest rivals 4-2 at Old Trafford. It has been the case for a large part of the season and it has them above Arsenal in fifth place. For the Reds, the gamble has worked out and the young defenders are gaining priceless experience while having to fill in the gaps.

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Arsenal suffered with Luiz in the line-up

The club suffered regardless of Luiz being involved or not. Across all competitions, he started 27 of his 30 games played. The Gunners won 15, drew 7, and lost 8 when he was on the field – which is nothing to write home about.

This also proves Arteta and the club got it wrong. David Luiz’s work rate is second to none but he was never going to reach the heights he did while playing for London rivals, Chelsea.

They’ve missed the mark and almost all the goals set this season. No silverware and no European football for next season is looking like the settlement for those at the Emirates. Ending Luiz’s time at the club is the best possible thing to do.

Arteta has already been backed by the club with them reassuring he will not be sacked and he will continue beyond the summer. Not offering Luis a new contract could be the best decision he’s made as the Arsenal boss.