Nuno Tavares’ future at Arsenal hangs in the balance. Despite his determination to stay and fight for a spot, the 24-year-old left-back faces an uphill battle.
Stiff Competition:
Tavares finds himself behind a crowded pecking order. Oleksandr Zinchenko, the versatile Ukrainian fullback, solidified his place as Arsenal’s first-choice left-back. Jakub Kiwior and Kieran Tierney offer further competition, with the upcoming arrival of Riccardo Calafiori further diminishing Tavares’ chances.
Loan Spells and Desire to Return:
Loan stints at Marseille and Nottingham Forest haven’t yielded a permanent solution. Despite the likely exit, Tavares remains vocal about his desire to return and prove himself in pre-season.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Tavares’ attacking capabilities initially impressed manager Mikel Arteta, leading to 22 appearances in his debut season. However, defensive frailties became evident, prompting loan spells.
Time for a Move?
While Tavares’ dedication is commendable, his style might not align with Arteta’s vision. His preference for a wingback role and a lack of tactical flexibility might limit his playing time. A move to a club that suits his attacking style could benefit both Tavares and Arsenal.
Potential Suitors:
Lazio’s reported £10 million offer presents a good opportunity. Arsenal could recoup a significant portion of their initial investment and free up space in the squad. For Tavares, it could be a chance to revive his career at a club that utilizes his attacking strengths.
Conclusion:
Nuno Tavares’ future at Arsenal seems uncertain. The crowded left-back position and his style mismatch make a permanent exit a possibility. While he remains determined to fight for his place, a move to a new club that prioritizes his attacking capabilities might be the best solution for all parties involved.
Source: This article is inspired by the work of Arsenal Core
