In times of difficulty, teams look to their leaders for inspiration. Mikel Arteta has been guilty of losing his cool in the past but as Arsenal’s season enters its decisive phase, the main man is stepping up to the mark.
Football in 2025 allows little room for improvisation. Hordes of data analysts plan for matches in mind-boggling detail. Five substitutions mean that if a Premier League coach gets it wrong with his starting XI, he can change half of his outfield players. The wealthiest clubs can afford squads packed with outstanding players, ensuring every base is covered.