What can Willian bring to Arsenal's attack?

Arsenal are closing in on the signing of Chelsea star Willian, but what could the Brazilian bring to the club's attack? Dan Mountney takes a look at the stats.



What can Willian bring to Arsenal's attack?

Willian in action. CREDIT: OFFSIDE


Willian would likely battle Nicolas Pepe for the starting spot on the right of Arsenal's attack, but how does the Brazilian compare to the club-record signing?

Although the Gunners might have expected more from their £72 million man, five goals in his first season represents a respectable tally, but Willian's nine marks his best goalscoring season in England.

This is down to Willian's willingness to shoot, taking 2.0 per 90 - his highest tally in seven years at Stamford Bridge - with an accuracy of 41 per cent. Pepe took 1.6 shots with a 36 per cent accuracy.

The Brazilian has also been far more creative than the Ivorian in the Premier League.

Willian has posted some impressive stats, with seven assists, 2.1 key passes per 90, 12 big chances created and 174 crosses in 2019/20.

Pepe meanwhile recorded six assists, 1.3 key passes per 90, eight big chances created and 109 crosses throughout the campaign.

Willian's superior stats could be down to his willingness to go down the line and onto his strong right foot, whereas the left-footed Pepe prefers to come inside, often running into traffic in the busier central areas.

Pepe does have more dribbles per 90 than Willian with 2.3 compared to 1.8, although this does lead to him being dispossessed more.

Should the Chelsea man move to the Emirates, his battle with Pepe for a starting spot will certainly be one to watch with interest.

More importantly, the pair would offer Arsenal and Mikel Arteta varied options on the right-hand side, with both having different qualities that pose contrasting threats to opposition defences.

Willian's arrival would also increase the creativity that the Gunners have lacked this season while adding some much-needed experience to the side.

The 31-year-old could be a valuable mentor for Pepe too, helping the Ivorian refine his explosive talents to turn glimpses of quality into consistent performances.

If Willian was to move to the Emirates, he would clearly have plenty to offer.


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comments

  1. Bardo

    Aug 04, 2020, 19:34 #117025

    You need to up your game Dan. This is Daily Mail click bait rubbish. The reason we are in for Willian is because his agent Kia Joorabchian and currently Kia wealds too much power at Arsenal. A 3 year deal for a 31 year old is beyond stupid. Tell it like it is and refrain from regurgitating tabloid bollocks.