The Arsene Wenger era at Arsenal was all about the style of play, often at the expense of tactical flexibility. Unai Emery has been the exact opposite.

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1. Downfall

This ultimately led to his downfall when, in his final years, Arsenal did not have the caliber of players to impose their will on the other side.

Unai Emery throughout this season has been the exact opposite.

When the whole squad is healthy, it is clear that he is capable of, and even desires to play “Wengerball.”

The team goal against Fulham that Ramsey finished is one of the more beautiful sequences of the last 10 years from the Gunners. Fans sang out, “We’ve got our Arsenal back” in one of the more joyous moments of the season so far.

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=79sZhFf6On8

But in more recent games, fans have been frustrated by a more “ugly” and defensive style of play.

But why is that?

Did Unai see the Fulham goal and get disgusted?

Absolutely not.

The more defensive shape has been necessitated by squad fitness and form.

Let me explain…
Paris Saint-Germain's Spanish head coach Unai Emery (L) shakes hands with Arsenal's French manager Arsene Wenger during the UEFA Champions League Group A football match between Paris-Saint-Germain and Arsenal FC on September 13, 2016 at the Parc des Princes stadium in Paris.
Unai Emery (L) shakes hands with Arsenal’s French manager Arsene Wenger during the UEFA Champions League Group A football match between Paris-Saint-Germain and Arsenal FC on September 13, 2016 at the Parc des Princes stadium in Paris.
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