Arteta’s Tactical Masterclass: How a Bold Saliba Shift Inspired Arsenal’s UCL Victory
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta showcased his tactical brilliance once again during the Champions League clash against Slavia Prague, pulling off a surprise move that proved decisive in the Gunners’ 2–0 victory.
The London side were without Martin Zubimendi for the first time this season. The £55 million summer signing from Real Sociedad has been a near ever-present figure, completing 90 minutes in nine of Arsenal’s 13 matches across the Premier League and Champions League. His suspension—earned after accumulating three yellow cards in Europe—forced Arteta into a rethink.
Zubimendi’s absence left a significant void in midfield. The Spaniard has been instrumental in linking defence and attack, often dropping deep to collect the ball and launch Arsenal’s forward play. Without his calm presence, Christian Norgaard, another summer addition, was handed the responsibility to anchor the midfield.
However, Arteta’s genius came to light when he made a surprising tactical adjustment. Early on, Slavia Prague’s relentless pressing disrupted Arsenal’s rhythm, limiting them to a 53% passing accuracy in the opening minutes. To counter this, Arteta instructed William Saliba—usually stationed deep in defence—to push higher up the pitch.
The French centre-back began stepping out from the back line, forming a temporary back three and adding an extra man in midfield. This subtle tweak gave Arsenal numerical superiority in central areas, helping them bypass Slavia’s press and regain control of the game. It also provided extra stability for Norgaard, whose technical level on the ball differs slightly from that of Zubimendi, Martin Ødegaard, or Eberechi Eze.
As the Gunners settled into their rhythm, they began to dominate possession and dictate play. Their persistence paid off with goals from Bukayo Saka, who converted from the penalty spot, and Mikel Merino, sealing a comfortable win away from home.
Saliba’s role was pivotal. Despite stepping into midfield more frequently, he remained defensively solid—recording six defensive actions, two interceptions, three recoveries, and four clearances. He also maintained an 85% pass completion rate from 33 attempts, including two progressive passes into the final third.
In Zubimendi’s absence, Saliba rose to the occasion—showing maturity, adaptability, and class beyond his years. Arteta’s decision to trust him in a hybrid role was nothing short of tactical brilliance, reinforcing Arsenal’s growing reputation as one of Europe’s most intelligent and disciplined teams.
