Arsenal Football Club is in the midst of a significant midfield overhaul. They recently brought in Christian Norgaard from Brentford for an expected starting fee of £10m. The 6ft 1in enforcer now looms large as an imposing marvel in the top flight. Not just through goals, but he’s the one always showing his aerial ability and his immaculate passing range ability. Ever since the 2021/22 season, Norgaard has developed into one of the league’s best stars. His tremendous expected goals (xG) from set-pieces, xG under-achievement and singular importance on a consistent basis make him a worthwhile acquisition Arsenal need to rely on for future years.
In fact, Norgaard currently ranks third in the whole Premier League for xG from set-pieces since the beginning of the 2021/22 campaign. He’s 3rd in the league overall, behind only Arsenal’s Gabriel and Newcastle’s Fabian Schar in this statistic, highlighting his potency on dead-ball situations. It’s here that he clearly outshines Liverpool’s Virgil van Dijk in this key aspect. This has rendered him an enormous weapon in set-pieces.
Aerial Prowess and Threat from Set-Pieces
Christian Norgaard not only delivers set-pieces but executes them with incredible consistency. His success isn’t just blind luck, it’s based on his tremendous ability as an aerial threat. At 6ft 1in, he has the height and frame to dominate aerial duels. His goal scoring history shows this ability, proving that he is able to take advantage of openings formed from set pieces and free-kicks.
And when Norgaard joined Brentford, he became a specialist at set-piece situations. His expected goals (xG) from these scenarios were top of the league. Given that he had five goals and four assists just last season, he was invaluable at times in helping his new team produce the most goals in MLS. Having such a player on Arsenal’s roster would only increase their overall effectiveness and creativity on set-piece plays. This addition would be a huge shot in the arm for the team.
Furthermore, his skill goes beyond just scoring. Norgaard is an excellent playmaker. He only completed more than 35% of his passes going forward in the Premier League last season. This pass-forward ratio is exceptional. In fact, it’s the highest out of all the other top midfielders such as Jorginho, Thomas Partey, and Declan Rice. This smart ability to progress the ball forward opens up Arsenal’s attacking transitions and further benefits a lot of the chances Arsenal’s forwards receive.
Passing Ability and Influence on Team Dynamics
Aside from his ability to score goals, Christian Norgaard is known for his elite passing talents. His passing accuracy over both short and long distances makes him one of the Premier League’s best. He finished the league’s top ten players in completed passes between the lines a season ago. This highlights his capacity to dribble in behind defensive lines and generate fluid attacking sequences.
His long-range distribution stretches the pitch and creates space, but his passing game provides Arsenal with methodical ball control to wear defences down. Norgaard’s tactical awareness enables him to find teammates effectively, making him invaluable to the team’s overall dynamics. As a “tigerish” presence at the base of midfield, he brings commitment and combativeness that can significantly enhance Arsenal’s competitiveness in matches.
Norgaard’s leadership qualities are noteworthy. His experience gained from playing 122 Premier League games equips him with insights that can guide younger players within the squad. His outstanding on-field skills combined with great leadership potential already give him a pretty strong case. He has the capacity to tactically and psychologically impact Arsenal’s midfield pair.
Commitment and Future Prospects at Arsenal
As Arsenal continues to work the impressive Christian Norgaard into its starting lineup, so too will expectations turn toward the expected contributions he’ll make. His commitment to play and willingness to engage defensively will be critical as the club aims for success in both domestic and European competitions. His out-of-possession effectiveness allows him to break up opposition attacks, allowing his teammates in the backline the protection they need.
The leadership qualities that Norgaard brings will be key in creating a competitive atmosphere in the midfield group. His time at Brentford will be a fantastic tool to use. Better for him to learn how to play at a club with their ambitions now. Manager Mikel Arteta places a high value on collectivism and tactical structure. As Norgaard adjusts to Arsenal’s style of play, his influence on this match could change drastically.
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