Lucas Torreira is the man to solve Arsenal’s problems
It was a signing that might have slipped somewhat under the radar in this Premier League transfer window but Arsenal’s capture of Uruguayan midfielder Lucas Torreira could prove to be one of the best pieces of business done this summer by any club in England’s top flight.
His performances at the World Cup in Russia this year showed glimpses of what he can do to the watching world. The ex-Sampdoria man brings something to Arsenal that they have long been lacking, while also boasting attributes that make him perfectly suited for their traditional style of play.
With Jack Wilshere departing the club on a permanent basis, Arsenal fans had to say goodbye to a player that they always held in high esteem and seemed to be always waiting for him to reach and remain at his best level. With Torreira, though, they now have a player who can step into the void so often left by the injury-plagued Englishman and one who still has his best years ahead of him as well.
Tough tackler and clever reading of the game
Torreira is tenacious and is not someone that opposing players will look forward to facing. He has a nasty side and has no problem leaving a boot in where it hurts if he feels it will give him the upper hand over the course of a game.
He rarely has to lunge or dive recklessly into challenges though and often just appears to be in the right place at the right time by fluke such is his reading of the game. At the Stadio Luigi Ferraris he displayed his ability to sniff out danger and to shut down the problem before it ever arises. Despite being just 22-years old he has an impressive understanding of his role in midfield and an intelligence that suggests maturity beyond his age. The season looks like it could be a tough one for Arsenal, at least according to the latest football tips from OLBG.com but Torreira will be up to the challenge.
On-the-ball ability
With the ball at his feet Torreira looks a different player to the hard edged tackler that he is without it. He is technically superb and would not look out of place in a Pep Guardiola or peak Arsenal side under Arsene Wenger.
At Sampdoria he showcased his ability in possession and it goes beyond playing simple, five-yard passes with little risk associated with them.
His vision is impressive and he has the capability to spot a pass that might be missed by many others in his role, but then also matches that with the ability to execute a pass through a narrow gap or over the top of an opposing defence, even through and into tight gaps that are tough to exploit.
Tell us what you think! If you agree, or have a different view, please leave a comment in the comments section or why not write a response or your own article on YouWrite?
Think you know Arsenal? Test your Arsenal knowledge on our trivia page and see if you can beat the top score.
Don't forget to like us on Facebook, add us to your G+ circle and follow us on Twitter.
