Unai Emery Hints Arsenal Midfielder Could Play In More Advanced Role

Unai Emery hinted that Lucas Torreira could feature in a more advanced role after his performance against Eintracht Frankfurt.

The Uruguayan midfielder came close to scoring for his side but it was goals from Joe Willock, Bukayo Saka and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang that led Arsenal to their first Europa League victory this season.

Speaking about Torreira, Emery said, “Tonight he played very well and this season it’s the first match that he was feeling physically very good.

“He was able to go from box to box and I want to use his quality. His qualities are that he can give us good pressing, and he can win the ball high up the pitch to give us the possession to score. He did that tonight,” he added. “After we need someone with the ball and in his position, he can help us with the build-up.”

Typically, we have seen Torreira play a defensive role for Arsenal, staying back and prioritising interceptions and tackles. However, against Frankfurt and even in the Watford game, the 23-year-old was seen playing more of a box-to-box role – pressing opposition players and also surging ahead during his team’s attacks.

The scoreline against the Bundesliga side was largely deceiving since Arsenal put yet another defensively frail performance. Frankfurt put up 24 shots throughout the game and came very close to punishing the Gunners for their lack of intensity.

No matter which role Emery chooses for Torreira, he will have to start looking into the real reason behind his side’s defensive issues.