Mikel Arteta has greater flexibility regarding his Arsenal side this season. While the squad is still thin on the ground in some areas, there is an added versatility to the new recruits that joined in the summer transfer window, which could later prove key in a busy fixture schedule.
It could see a greater amount of rotation, with even the likes of Gabriel Jesus and Oleksandr Zinchenko able to dip out of the side when needed. However, amongst all the talent in the squad, there's one player who plays a specific role that is undroppable at this stage: Granit Xhaka.
The Swiss international has had a love-hate relationship at the club at times, with little certainty over just how important he is to the side over his stay. However, the major tactical tweak from Arteta has certainly moved the needle back to the side of love with the fanbase.
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Rather than playing as a type of double pivot alongside Thomas Partey, as he used to, Xhaka has since taken up a far more advanced role in the side. Playing on the left, he's turned into a box-to-box playmaker, changing his reputation along the way.
The 29-year-old appeared to get cards all the time for his challenges, even the softer ones that he would make. However, the stats show that has changed significantly, with WhoScored claiming he makes 0.8 tackles per 90 minutes, his lowest ever recorded in a league campaign.
It shows he has to be less involved with that side of the game, with the anchor in midfield - usually, Partey when he's fit - sweeping up the rest of the work. On the other hand, his creative numbers have exploded, already matching his best goal and assist tally since joining Arsenal.
Add to that his key passes, managing 1.8 per 90 minutes, showing just how useful he can be in the other box. When asked about his position this season, the midfielder said: "I've got more freedom to go up and down, I know I can do that. I have a lot of freedom from the coach and from my teammates.
"At the moment, I'm happy with how everything is going. Let's continue to work like this, and hopefully, at the end of the season, we can be more than happy.
"It's always good when you score, and it's always good when you can help the team – not only me, but all the players did a great job today. I'm more than happy to help, of course."
Xhaka may also benefit from the perception surrounding him too, given that fellow midfield partner Martin Odegaard is seen as the main playmaker. Even if the Norwegian isn't directly impacting play, his ability to draw opponents and create space for his Swiss teammate could also play a large part in his success.
With his experience and newly-found lease of life at the Emirates Stadium, Xhaka was worked his way back into the hearts of Arsenal fans and as one of the first names on the teamsheet every week.
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