Nacho Monreal doesn’t get the credit he deserves from Arsenal fans of from the wider footballing world in general, with the Spaniard proving his huge worth to the side again this season.
Not instantly a regular upon joining the Gunners from Malaga in 2013, Monreal perhaps took some time to get going in the Premier League, but has since gone on to quietly become a crucial member of their defence.
In fact, based on stats so far this season Monreal is almost a one-man defensive unit on his own, as he leads the club in number of tackles, interceptions and clearances.
At a club more renowned for their overall defensive strength and cohesion, Monreal’s work might be noticed more, but it’s fair to say his stellar individual efforts have often been overshadowed by sloppy play and errors from his team-mates.
The 31-year-old started out as a left-back and has featured at wing-back at points since Arsene Wenger’s change in system last season, though it is his versatility and ability to slot in at centre-back that makes him so priceless to his manager.
Arsenal’s form has picked up of late and Monreal was tireless again last night as he continued in a central role to keep West Brom at bay at the Emirates Stadium.
Arsenal 2017/18 fixtures
Huddersfield (A) - Sun May 13
While the Baggies started well to trouble the home side, it is numbers like this from Monreal that have helped keep them in some tight matches this season.
Surprisingly linked with Athletic Bilbao on a number of occasions in recent summers, it’s little wonder Wenger has fought to keep hold of the reliable defensive stalwart.
MORE : Arsenal keen on Chelsea ace amid contract talks delay
Share this with