Former Newcastle forward Chris Waddle has told BetBrain he’s unsure how Bruno Guimaraes would fit into Arsenal’s midfield, given Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi’s roles in the team.
Former Newcastle forward Chris Waddle has told BetBrain he’s unsure how Bruno Guimaraes would fit into Arsenal’s midfield, given Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi’s roles in the team.
Speaking exclusively to BetBrain, Waddle said: “I don’t know where Bruno Guimaraes will play for Arsenal if he makes the move to North London. Declan Rice had a more advanced role last season, and Martin Zubimendi sat deeper. They had a good midfield system last year, so you have to question where he’ll fit in.”
It’s a logical assessment, especially given Arsenal’s success in finally getting over the hump, winning the Premier League, and narrowly losing to PSG in the Champions League final. As evidenced in our discussion with former Gunner Jermaine Pennant for the BetBrain blog, failing to win the title would’ve left a mental scar. Breaking the winning formula can be a dangerous proposition for their long-term outlook.
“Guimaraes is an all-round player, he isn’t scared in possession, and he’s got the legs to go up and down the pitch, but Arsenal have already got very similar players, so I’m quite surprised they’ve gone all in for him.”
Newcastle’s current player would follow in Eddie Howe’s footsteps, as the former gaffer decided to step away from the Tyne-Wear club. Far from a no deposit bonus for Arsenal in terms of total cost, Guimaraes’ exit is an interesting development given that the northeasteners also sold Sandro Tonali to the Spurs this transfer period, hitting into their depth.
“There’s no doubt he’s a good acquisition if they’re going to be challenging for three or four trophies next season, as they’ll need to rest players, though I don’t know how he’ll fit into the starting XI.”
Not all seasons are free spins to go for a trophy. Despite City’s showing of Premier League winning consistency, it’s very difficult to do so, and Waddle’s acknowledgment of the importance of squad depth shows it.
Chris Waddle played 170 games for Newcastle, scoring 46 goals over five years. Waddle player-managed Burnley in 1997-98, scoring one goal, before joining Worksop Town in the National League in 2002.
Waddle spent three years in France playing for Marseille and is known for scoring an outstanding volley against the reigning Champions League winners, AC Milan, to advance his side to the next round.
