Arsenal’s stalwart manager, Arsene Wenger, has often received high criticism for his lacklustre activity during transfer windows. He has insisted in continuing with his philosophy with Arsenal. But with Joey Barton linked to the club, it seems that the past winless six years is actually making him think differently.
Wenger has maintained his stance on rough tackles and always has his players play seamless football. Barton, currently with Newcastle United, is known for just the contrary. He was instrumental in Newcastle coming back from behind to a 4-4 draw with Arsenal earlier this year.
Joey Barton’s career is plagued with controversy. He was often found in court rather than practicing with his teammates. He is definitely not everybody’s favourite, leave alone being a first choice footballer. But there has been no denying the talent that he possesses.
Wenger’s show of intent has been taken as shocking. But, the move is obvious. Wenger has to toughen up his midfield. He needs to add more steel to the squad along with the experience.
Arsenal may have failed to win a trophy in the past six years, but given their consistent top four ranking they are a regular feature in the UEFA Champions League, an opportunity Barton is more than likely to cherish.
“I don’t want to leave Newcastle, my family is settled in the area, I’ve got a great working relationship with everybody at the club but if someone came in and, hypothetically, offered me Champions League football, whether I’d signed a five, six or seven-year deal at Newcastle, I’d have to consider it,” admitted Barton.
He has one year still to go on his current contract with Newcastle. They will rather offload him now if they can instead of releasing him for no financial gains next summer.
At Emirates, Barton can move straight in to the first team. He will be able to add a lot of character, experience and bring them the much needed depth. His experience will impart skills on the young squad as well. With Cesc Fabregas touted for a move to Barcelona, Arsenal will have to bring in a player who has the experience and the ability to find the net.
If successful, the player will cost £1.5 million to Wenger. This is a bargain considering the fact that Barton is able to perform well.
The downside to his signing is the baggage that he carries and the reputation that precedes him. He has a lot to bring on to the pitch. But off the field, he can be a tough boy to handle. That is something Wenger must have already taken in to account. Barton must have impressed Wenger for his possession of the ball.
Barton’s aggression in the middle of the field will add a new dimension to the way the game is played by the Gunners. He will be a key member to unleash when they have a lead to preserve. However, it will be interesting to see how Barton goes around his game in the Champions League. With more cultured opposition, his style of play could be brutal and may end up working in the favour of his club.
The criticism associated with Barton’s signing with Arsenal has more to do with the attitude and the tendency to break down psychologically and not his skills with the ball. It is also argued that he may not be able to handle the pressure handed to him at Arsenal.
However way he plays or behaves, his signing is almost certain. The coming season will be followed with much anticipation to see how Barton performs. More importantly, Arsene Wenger will also be tested with his use of the bad boy of English football.