It was quite an underwhelming season for Arsenal but Alexandre Lacazette should be proud of his performances. The number nine was in inspiring form through the campaign scoring 19 goals and making 13 assists but still, the numbers don’t tell the whole story.
His contribution earned him Arsenal’s ‘MVP’ tag as he was voted player of the season. Despite Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang winning the Premier League top scorer award, most fans still felt that Lacazette’s input was superior.
The Frenchman’s game is more than just finding the back of the net something that even his former boss, Arsene Wenger agreed to in the past.
“He’s not only a goal scorer, but his link-up play is also good… He fights as well, he’s not fazed by the physical challenges… and overall he looks to adapt very quickly and very well.”
Even though the forward went through a frustrating spell -under Wenger- in his debut season, his mindset in 2018/2019 campaign suggested that he was over the disappointment. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s arrival implied reduced game time for Lacazette as he was substituted so often and even benched on big games.
However, the just ended season saw Lacca play the best football of his career so far something that even the player admitted via Arsenal player when he said that:
“I’ve played the best football of my career this season and for Arsenal, not because of the goals I scored, but in my game – I really improved,”
Every Premier League fan can attest to this given the vigor he exhibited every time he was on the pitch. He was very selfless and teamwork was at the core of his game. He tirelessly chased the ball when his team was out of possession and relentlessly hurried defenders into making mistakes. His hold up play was even better as he easily brought his teammates into play inside the box especially when playing very defensive teams.
To be reliable in an otherwise painfully inconsistent team is always challenging but Lacazette proved to be one of those players who could be counted on when the team needed a savior.
For all Lacazette’s undisputed brilliance, he needs to work on his temper when things are not working. He has shown that he can be easily goaded with the highlight being the direct red for felling Aleksandar Filipovic, against Bate, at the Borisov Arena during a Europa League defeat. Any opposition can use such cases to win matches thereby costing his team crucial points.
Despite the alleged interests from the likes of Barcelona, Unai Emery is reportedly keen to tie Lacazette at the Emirates with a new contract. Given his work ethic and the perfect partnership he has formed with Auba, losing him now can be a big blow to the North London Club.
