Ross

Ref knew we’d have one final chance to score

Hincapie feels like a Chelsea player, plays like a wasp

That’s 100% a penalty

This isn’t a comment on Jacquet’s ability but the fee he’s going for makes the Mosquera deal look even better

His knack for an important goal might be the biggest loss

Also, there was a willingness to play one touch football tonight which I feel like I’ve been starved of for so long. That Norgaard flick for Martinelli’s goal was sensational

Main takeaways from Kairat:

Havertz is such an intelligent player and we’re a better team with him in it.

Eze can do both but I much prefer him receiving closer to goal than dictating from deep.

White’s passing is underrated.

Was sat in the 4th row tonight and my only question is how on earth do managers see how their tactics are working from ground level?

Doesn’t matter if it’s Eze or Odegaard playing there, something feels off

It’s such a toxic loop between the fans and the team. When the nerves hit, everything tightens and it really looks like the players feel it too

A slightly longer term worry is how little threat we have centrally and today really took us back to the days of giving Saka the ball on the touchline and expecting miracles

That’s a shocking performance and we’ve not been great in the league for a wee while now but let’s not throw the baby out with the bath water. All about how the players respond and there’s plenty of time to turn things around

Here's a peak (names hidden to avoid bias)

I’m putting together something on the numbers behind Arsenal’s transfers since Wenger left, inspired by
@samjdean.bsky.social. I’d really like some opinions to go with it so if anyone wants to rate a few signings, I’d appreciate it!

Yeah, my only tiny worry is that we've maybe let some players go a bit too cold then expect them to immediately be up to standard. Myles the main example here

Then there’s also the CWC. I can’t imagine starting their season in June will do them any favours during the run in

People are (understandably) scared by the idea of Man City, not this current team. The lead has extended from 4 to 7 and we haven’t had to play that well to do it. We’d all love to be 9 clear but we’re still on track

He definitely passed Arteta’s management masterclass with flying colours

Football Can't Steal My Joy Arsenal 2022/23 and why results don't matter

Here's me writing about the 2022/23 season and why it still matters to me:

substack.com/@rossmcleod9...

Decent half but it’s hard to deny this is a game for Gaby Jesus. In fairness to Gyokeres, anytime we get the ball near the box it looks like he’s being manhandled

Okay, this was sooner than expected

Utd getting a head start knowing Wilfried Nancy will be available soon

Very grateful that my only access to the game was through my Utd supporting friend who very kindly only let me know there’d been a goal when it was us taking the lead

Cesc was my idol growing up so I’ve always been easy on him going to Chelsea but him becoming their manager would be the nail in the coffin

Our CB partnership is the key to this side so Gabriel instantly being back to his best is huge. Odegaard and Trossard were also brilliant, what a second half

If you don’t laugh, you’ll cry

Still a long way to go but you’re keeping me calm every time you post one of these

I’m praying the reduced burden allows us to see him at his best. Will also be crucial to replace his qualities when the inevitable comes

Imagine having that meathead as your captain, embarrassing

Romero showing how “elite” on the ball he is