Arsenal Told to Target Rodrygo as Solution to Attacking Woes
Arsenal may have kicked off their campaign with a crucial win over Manchester United, but former England defender Micah Richards believes there’s still a glaring issue in Mikel Arteta’s squad — the left wing. Speaking on The Rest Is Football podcast, Richards suggested Real Madrid’s Rodrygo could be the perfect addition to balance Arsenal’s attack and solve their ongoing struggles on the flank.
Arsenal’s Attack Falters Despite Victory
Although the Gunners secured three points in a high-stakes clash at Old Trafford, the performance raised concerns about their attacking sharpness. The only goal came from an unlikely source — defender Riccardo Calafiori — after a fumble by United goalkeeper Altay Bayindir. Arsenal managed just three shots on target, less than half of United’s tally, highlighting a lack of threat in the final third.
Richards pointed out that Arsenal’s left wing was particularly ineffective. Gabriel Martinelli was largely anonymous, creating just one chance before being substituted after 60 minutes. His replacement, Noni Madueke, failed to offer much improvement, also managing just one chance during his time on the pitch.
Rodrygo Could Be the Missing Piece
With Bukayo Saka consistently delivering on the right wing, Richards believes the left side needs urgent attention — and he sees Rodrygo as the ideal solution.
“I still think they’re a left winger or left forward short,” said Richards. “They were linked to Rodrygo — that could solve a lot of problems for them.”
Valued at around £80 million, the 24-year-old Brazilian forward is reportedly available for transfer, with Real Madrid open to offers. Rodrygo’s pace, flair, and goal threat could provide Arsenal with a dynamic new option in attack and ease the creative burden on Saka and Martin Ødegaard.
Strength in Depth Gives Arsenal Hope
While Richards highlighted attacking concerns, he also praised Arsenal’s squad depth — a key factor in their potential title challenge this season. He applauded the impact of players like Myles Lewis-Skelly and Mikel Merino coming off the bench, calling it a sign of how far the team has progressed.
“You can change the full-backs now and not lose quality,” Richards noted. “It’s a massive win away from home and gives them the momentum they need at the start of the season.”
Patience Needed for Gyokeres
Richards’ co-host, Alan Shearer, offered a word of encouragement for new signing Viktor Gyokeres, who endured a quiet debut. Despite arriving with high expectations following his £63.5 million move, the Swedish striker struggled to make an impact, rarely touching the ball in the box.
“It’s a tough afternoon for him, but we can’t judge him yet,” said Shearer. “He’s fast, strong, and powerful — but he’ll need time to adapt to Arsenal’s style of play.”
