Feature

Arsenal v Chelsea

Before every Arsenal fixture, we’ll bring you a Scouting Report on the Gunners’ next opponents.

Arsène Wenger's side host Chelsea on Sunday. To find out more, we asked tactical expert Michael Cox.

Michael Cox

Chelsea are unbeaten in seven games since Jose Mourinho’s departure in mid-December, with interim manager Guus Hiddink focusing upon squad harmony rather than remodelling the side tactically. The starting XI is relatively unchanged from the side which won the title last year.

In goal, Thibaut Courtois has returned after a lengthy spell on the sidelines with a knee injury, although he’s struggled to keep clean sheets. In defence, Kurt Zouma has established himself alongside John Terry under Hiddink and is particularly useful for his recovery pace, often sprinting towards his own goal before making crucial last-ditch tackles.

"Diego Costa departed through injury against Everton but should be fit to start here, with Arsenal’s centre-backs now fully aware of his tendency to wind up opponents"

Michael Cox

Branislav Ivanovic has recovered his form, although he’s become more cautious than a couple of years ago, remaining in a solid defensive position. Left-back Cesar Azpilicueta is now accustomed to playing on the ‘wrong’ flank, and has developed into more of an attacking threat this season.

The major change under Hiddink has been the re-emergence of John Obi Mikel in the holding position. Now in his 10th season at Chelsea, the Nigerian continues to play a solid, no-nonsense role.

Hiddink has used two different midfield formats - he’s often benched Nemanja Matic and used Cesc Fabregas alongside Mikel, with Oscar as the No 10. However, in last week’s 3-3 draw at Everton he used Mikel and Matic together, with Fabregas ahead. Chelsea’s passing was poor and they allowed a surprising amount of space in front of their defence despite playing two tackling midfielders, and they looked much better when Fabregas returned to his deeper position.

In Hiddink’s 4-2-3-1 formation, the only surefire starter in the attacking midfield positions is Willian, who has impressed with his direct dribbling in open play, and his dangerous free-kicks from left-sided positions. Fabregas or Oscar should take the No 10 slot, depending upon Hiddink’s preferred format in the deeper midfield roles.

On the left, Eden Hazard’s form has improved in recent weeks, but the reigning PFA Player of the Year has, incredibly, still not managed a single goal this season.

Diego Costa departed through injury against Everton but should be fit to start here, with Arsenal’s centre-backs now fully aware of his tendency to wind up opponents. Loic Remy is the alternative, and primarily a threat with his quick sprints into the channels.