Lamenting Arsenal of 2011-2012

Things are not going as good over at the Emirates. It was a result of the exodus of key players in the last few months. This was well documented in international & local media. And of course, every Joe is an expert when it comes to the what, why and how.

However, not many have discussed to the details on how Arsenal clinch the double double in 2001 and 2004. A heroic feat, done with a team that was a mix bag of young and old. A well experienced back line (Adam etc), (imho) the best midfield ever assembled that was shepherd by the magical Viera and a very potent front line with a 17 years old superstar in the making.
Arsenal played the quick and fluid passing football. This was when Pep Guardiola was still marshaling the midfield of a somewhat mediocre Barcelona squad.

In 2004, on their way for their second double of the premier league, the Arsenal juggernaut went on a 49 games unbeaten run. That Arsenal team made a lot of people fall in love with football all over again. It was fluid, it was beautiful and it produced results.

So why can't this formula be sustained or in current situation, why can't it be revived? The answer lies in the pace of player development , the retention of key players and acquirement of key new players. Arsenal preference of offering 1 year contract for players above 30 has shun away massive talents. It's lack of quality youngsters coming through the rank has compounded the problem. Some lackluster purchases over the years didn't help either. The writing is on the wall and it all blew up early in this 2011-201 season.

Now Arsenal can no longer afford to play beautiful football. It now has to inject the spirit of the minnows, the likes of Wimbledon(of the old) and Bolton. Dejected as it may sound, the quick passing and beautiful football that was so synonymous with the Arsenal of the old, will never be recaptured. It's new home is at the Nou Camp.

Rain

Rain
Wash away the dirt
Wash away the impurities
Wash away the dark spots

Rain
Rejuvenate beings
Refresh spirits
Replenish senses

Rain
Drowns
Engulf
Suffocate

Rain