Zidane's Number One: Benzema's Impact on the Arsenal Attack
Updated:2025-07-17 06:35 Views:141**Zidane's Number One: Benzema's Impact on the Arsenal Attack**
When Arsenal completed the signing of Kylian Mbappé in the summer of 2022, the focus was inevitably on their new attacking duo: the Frenchman and his compatriot, Karim Benzema. While Mbappé quickly became the face of the Arsenal revolution, Benzema has emerged as the silent powerhouse driving the team’s attack. A player whose influence is as much on and off the pitch as it is on the scoreboard, Benzema has seamlessly integrated into Arsenal’s system under the guidance of manager Pierre-Emerick Zidane, a man who knows a thing or two about world-class striker talent.
**Benzema’s Role in Arsenal’s Attack**
Benzema’s position in Arsenal’s attack is a hybrid one. He is not a traditional striker in the sense of being a prolific goalscorer from the box, but rather a player who thrives in a more fluid, dynamic system. Under Zidane’s leadership, Benzema has embraced the role of a false nine, a player who drops deep to link defense and attack, creating chances for his teammates. His ability to break lines with a single pass or dart into the box has turned him into a valuable asset for Arsenal, especially when the opposition defends in a compact block.
**Benzema’s Strengths**
What makes Benzema so valuable is his all-around game. He is a master of close control, able to disorient defenders with his composure and vision. His ability to carry the ball out of defense and into the final third is a joy to watch, and his clinical finishing has made him a consistent threat. Benzema’s passing range is a thing of beauty, whether he’s threading a through ball for a teammate or finding a pocket of space in the box. His leadership qualities are also not to be overlooked; he often pulls his teammates into position and sets the tone for attacks.
**Benzema’s Impact on Arsenal’s Style**
One of the most significant impacts Benzema has had on Arsenal is the way he’s influenced the team’s attacking philosophy. Zidane’s influence is clear in how Benzema plays, but the Frenchman has also adapted his game to fit the demands of the Premier League. His adaptability has allowed Arsenal to play a more fluid, possession-based game, with the entire team moving in unison. Benzema’s ability to hold up the ball and bring others into play has freed up space for attackers like Mbappé and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain to exploit defensive gaps.
**Benzema’s Leadership and Future**
Beyond his on-field contributions, Benzema has also taken on a leadership role within the squad. His experience and calm demeanor have helped younger players like Bukayo Saka and James Maddison navigate the pressures of Premier League football. As the season progresses, Benzema’s importance to Arsenal’s attack will only grow, especially if the team faces a tough schedule of fixtures. His ability to perform under pressure and maintain consistency will be crucial if Arsenal are to challenge for major honours.
**The Future of Benzema at Arsenal**
Looking ahead, Benzema’s contract at Arsenal is set to expire in the summer of 2025, but the club will be hoping to tie him down to a longer deal. His form and influence will be key factors in determining whether Arsenal can sustain their current level of performance and compete at the highest level. For now, though, Benzema is redefining what it means to be a Number One striker in the modern game, and Arsenal are reaping the benefits of his presence. Under Zidane’s guidance, Benzema has become the heartbeat of Arsenal’s attack, a player who embodies the club’s values and drives them toward success.
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