THE ARSENAL OPINION - BY LE GROVE

Johnny and Pedro bring you the Arsenal-themed Wednesday Download. They discuss the haaawtest topics that include: Rating Arda Guler for January Flirting with Oshimen (again) Forest - do or die? BlueSky thinking Dissecting Pep's new deal We hope you enjoyed the podcast! x If you LOVED the work, maybe sign up for a primo membership? FOR A WEEKLY ARSENAL NEWSLETTER: https://www.le-grove.co.uk/ FOR MEMBERS BONUS / AD FREE CONTENT: https://www.patreon.com/c/TheArsenalOpinion SOCIALS: https://x.com/LeGrove Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of The Arsenal Opinion, Pedro and Matt Candela dive into the week's hottest topics as the Gunners prepare for a critical December run: International Break Blues – The frustrations of stop-start seasons, injury risks, and why Arsène Wenger might have had the right idea about August qualifiers. Trossard Trouble – Injury woes, form debates, and how Martin Ødegaard’s return could reignite Arsenal's attack. The Zinchenko Dilemma – Is it time to back experience over potential, and why the Ukrainian might hold the key to de-risking Arsenal’s December. The Emirates Expansion – Bigger stadium, safe standing, and revamping Arsenal’s home to rival the best in Europe. Striker Talk – Could Arsenal break the bank for a marquee signing, or is the answer already in-house with Kai Havertz? Plus, an optimistic look ahead to the festive fixture list, a cheeky Mbappé fantasy, and a glimpse of Arsenal's influence on global stadium culture. Join us for tactical takes, wild speculation, and all the Arsenal vibes you need! Subscribe, leave a five-star review, and get bonus content at patreon.com/thearsenalopinion. Get primo writing at https://www.le-grove.co.uk/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Arsenal Opinion boys are back with a banger. Here's what they chatted about: Referee Scandal and Accountability: In-depth discussion on referee David Coote's recent scandal, his conduct, and its implications on the integrity of Premier League officiating. The podcast explores whether a major overhaul of referee management, including better remuneration and stricter oversight, could help mitigate similar issues. VAR and Referee Independence: Conversation around the relationship between on-field referees and VAR officials, debating whether they should be separated to avoid bias or if close collaboration improves decision-making. Suggestions for creating independent VAR specialists are also discussed. Transfer Window Speculation and Strategy: Insightful look at Arsenal’s potential January transfer moves, especially the likelihood of pursuing Martin Zubimendi, a versatile midfielder, and Alexander Isak, a dynamic forward. The discussion delves into how these additions could shape Arsenal’s title hopes and match City’s roster depth. Arsenal’s Midfield Configuration: Detailed analysis on Arsenal’s midfield roles, particularly on whether Declan Rice is best utilized as a “six” or higher up the field. The potential impact of bringing in a passing-focused midfielder like Zubimendi versus relying on Rice’s versatility is explored. Future of Newcastle’s Ownership and Potential Sale: Discussion around rumors of Saudi Arabia potentially pulling out of Newcastle United ownership, impacting the club’s financial structure and potentially allowing Arsenal to capitalize on high-profile Newcastle players, such as Isak. This shift in ownership could reshape Newcastle’s competitive stance in the league. If you LOVED the work, maybe sign up for a primo membership? FOR A WEEKLY ARSENAL NEWSLETTER: https://www.le-grove.co.uk/ FOR MEMBERS BONUS / AD FREE CONTENT: https://www.patreon.com/c/TheArsenalOpinion SOCIALS: https://x.com/LeGrove Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Pedro and Johnny slide into a BIG discussion about the draw at Chelsea. Drossard at it again Gabi Jesus flops from the bench MERINO IS GOOD Chasing City or LIVERPOOL? Defensive issues - or just bad luck? Huge Gabriel Martinelli performance! Take a listen and please enjoy responsibly. If you want to be reckless, maybe sign up for a primo membership? FOR A WEEKLY ARSENAL NEWSLETTER: https://www.le-grove.co.uk/ FOR MEMBERS BONUS / AD FREE CONTENT: https://www.patreon.com/c/TheArsenalOpinion SOCIALS: https://x.com/LeGrove Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Matt and Pedro get under the skin of Chelsea with friend of the pod, Anthony Mellor. It got me right in the mood! We discussed: The flop of Enzo Maresca magic The growing force of Jackson Chelsea weaknesses Predictions Take a listen! FOR A WEEKLY ARSENAL NEWSLETTER: https://www.le-grove.co.uk/ FOR MEMBERS BONUS / AD FREE CONTENT: https://www.patreon.com/c/TheArsenalOpinion SOCIALS: https://x.com/LeGrove Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week on The Arsenal Opinion Jacob and Pedro try and get under the skin of the pressing issues. Why William Gallas is boring Arsenal attack issus brick by brick Edu Gaspar exit What we need in a new Sporting Director Let me know what you think! x FOR A WEEKLY ARSENAL NEWSLETTER: https://www.le-grove.co.uk/ FOR MEMBERS BONUS / AD FREE CONTENT: https://www.patreon.com/c/TheArsenalOpinion SOCIALS: https://x.com/LeGrove https://x.com/hawleyjacob Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

EMERGENCY PODCAST: Matt and Johnny jump on the mic to discuss the ramifications of Edu leaving his post as Sporting Director at Arsenal. The boys discuss his legacy, what Forest has offered him, and the impact of his exit on Arsenall If you want the Le Grove take on the move, check out the post below, and sign up to the daily newsletter: https://www.le-grove.co.uk/p/edu-leaves-arsenal-should-not-anoint But if you really love this content, sign up to our Patreon here and get bonus content ad free: https://www.patreon.com/c/TheArsenalOpinion If you LOVE this podcast. Give us a little rating. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It's Johnny, Matt, and Pedro discussing the latest Arsenal game against Newcastle. The hot topics are as follows: Investment regrets Ethan getting the wrong minutes Zero shots for Kai Havertz The title - is it over? Trossard the anonymous If you LOVE this. Give us a little rating. But if you really love this content, sign up to our Patreon here and get bonus content ad free: https://www.patreon.com/c/TheArsenalOpinion If you like the written word, sign up to the newsletter here: https://www.le-grove.co.uk/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Coming to you 48 hours later - it's Arsenal vs Liverpool reaction right after the game. If you want this in realtime, get on our membership. They chat about Arteta’s stubble and what that means The injury issues we’re facing and how that impacts Liverpool We guess starting 11s Predictions are made If you like this content, we have a Patreon where we have bonus content, early bird work, and it's all advert free. https://www.patreon.com/TheArsenalOpinion If you LOVE newsletters and daily Arsenal content sign up to Le Grove here: https://www.le-grove.co.uk/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jacob and Pedro get in the Arsenal mixer the morning after the Liverpool game. Revising Merino slander Midfield still lacking creativity Contextualising broken Arsenal's point Ten Haag OUT Complaining about refs, again This is NOT the On The Whistle, If you want that, head here: https://www.patreon.com/posts/liverpool-on-114832890 If you want the exclusive player ratings, go here: https://www.patreon.com/posts/aop-patreon-114858718 If you LOVE an Arsenal newsletter, go here: https://www.le-grove.co.uk/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Johnny talks to Professional wrestler and YouTuber about his journey into wrestling, comparisons between professional sports and sports entertainment, his origin as an Arsenal fan and a daunting fixture against Liverpool on the horizon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Pedro grabbed some time with sports PR expert and consultant, David Alexander. They discussed Premium line transfer numbers The PR landscape in 2024 PGMOL 'lyin' eyes' strategy Premier League rage machine If you want to learn more about David, here's his company details: https://calacus.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidwalexander/ Twitter: https://x.com/ArsenalAddict Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Arsenal Opinion went LIVE to talk about the shocking results away at the Vitality Stadium. Bournemouth slapped Arsenal, and PGMOL put itself in the middle once again. Saliba made errors Trossard was a mess MARTINELLI MISSED Johnny and Matt take you through the pain of it all. If you want this ad-free PLUS bonus content https://www.patreon.com/c/TheArsenalOpinion If you want the daily Le Grove newsletter https://www.le-grove.co.uk/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It's Jacob, Matt, and Pedro back on the sofa for some Arsenal themed Thursday Therapy. Here's what the chat entailed - International Break Worries: The team discusses the anxiety of returning from international breaks, highlighting concerns about fitness issues for key Arsenal players like Saka, Ødegaard, and Martinelli. - Focus on Bournemouth Match: Jacob shares his fear of Bournemouth as a potential banana skin after international breaks, emphasizing Arsenal's history of dropping points during similar fixtures. - Arsenal’s Away Form: Matt confidently predicts a win, citing Arsenal's superb away form in 2024, where they remain unbeaten. - Team Selection Concerns: The group debates fullback options, particularly the competition between Timber, Calafiori, and Ben White, following recent performances. - Predictions and Confidence: The hosts provide contrasting predictions, with Jacob envisioning a nervy 1-0 win, while Matt predicts a comfortable 3-0 victory. Sign up to our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/TheArsenalOpinion Sign up for a daily newsletter: https://www.le-grove.co.uk/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This was a very special interview. Elliot is one of the leading business operators in the UK with a monster track record of success. He’s also a massive Gooner. This is a chat about his take on the rebirth of Arsenal and the shifting sands of the global content game. AI pulled together this summary from the transcript. 1. Introduction: The guest, Elliot Richardson, is introduced as a multifaceted individual with a background in business, entrepreneurship, finance, sport, and technology, offering smart and measured takes on Arsenal. 2. Risk Management Expertise: Elliot discusses his background in the insurance and reinsurance industry, explaining how understanding and mitigating risk has shaped his approach to business and sports, particularly with the International Olympic Committee and Manchester United sponsorships. 3. Digital Transformation in Sports: Elliot talks about his involvement with OneFootball and Dugout, highlighting the importance of understanding fans through data. He emphasizes the need for clubs to engage better with their fan bases and solve problems related to fan interaction and loyalty. 4. Arsenal Origins and Family Legacy: Elliot shares his personal connection to Arsenal, with his family attending matches for nearly 100 years. His origin story is deeply rooted in North London, with generational loyalty to the club. 5. Arsenal's Future Dominance: Elliot expresses his belief that Arsenal is on the verge of a dominant era in English football, citing the ambition, commitment, and direction of both the players and management. He also touches on how Arsenal is becoming feared again in the football world. 6. Content Creation and Fan Engagement: Elliot highlights the innovative approach behind Dugout and OneFootball, creating a platform for clubs to share behind-the-scenes content and engage with fans more deeply. He discusses the importance of making this content easily accessible and personalized, resulting in huge fan loyalty and interaction across the globe. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Johnny and Matt smash out a Monday Arsenal Opinion Pod and talk International sleeper agents, Nwaneri the apprentice, favourable Kai comps, and Set piece praise. If you like this content, we have a Patreon where we have bonus content, early bird work, and it's all advert free. https://www.patreon.com/TheArsenalOpinion If you LOVE newsletters and daily Arsenal content sign up to Le Grove here: https://www.le-grove.co.uk/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jacob and Pedro hit the week's hardest stories in a Saturday Therapy sesh. They discuss: Odegaard vs Saka Phase 3 of the season How to treat very young players Saliba to Madrid Let us know what you think! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Matt sits down with Author David Arrowsmith to talk about his new book called Narcoball: Love, death and football in Escobar's Colombia: - South American Qualifiers - The golden era of Colombian football - The connection to Pablo Escobar - What the future could hold - His new book: Narcoball: Love, death and football in Escobars Colombia. If you enjoyed this awesome interview, make sure you buy the book. https://linktr.ee/narcoball Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Matt gets into the mixer with his friend David Marks. They discuss the following. Arsenal’s Missed Golden Era: Reflecting on how Arsenal’s move to the Emirates Stadium, with high hopes of dominating Europe, was derailed by Roman Abramovich's Chelsea and Manchester City’s financial power. The Wenger Worm Turn: The exact moment Arsène Wenger’s reign turned sour for long-time fans—when project youth failed, leaving Arsenal far behind rivals. Arteta's Dark Arts: How Mikel Arteta is mastering the ‘dark arts’ by strategically resting overworked players like Thomas Partey and Kai Havertz during international breaks, unlike Wenger’s more lenient approach. Manchester City’s War with the Premier League: A spicy dive into Manchester City's ongoing battle with the Premier League over financial scrutiny and the potential long-term impact on Pep Guardiola and the club’s future. Tottenham’s Hysterical Collapse: Glee over Spurs’ comical meltdown against Southampton, highlighting Ange Postecoglou’s tactical stubbornness, and predicting continued struggles for Spurs this season. Please enjoy responsibly. x Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

I had the pleasure of interviewing Michael Rainey, a former active-duty service officer in the United States Army and a current strategic-level consultant in science, technology, and decision-making. We delved into how he built a high-performance operation, using Arsenal’s transformation as the backdrop for our conversation. Organizational culture is one of my favorite topics, so I had a lot of fun with this interview. There's something here for anyone interested in leadership—I hope you enjoy it! You can find Michael’s biz here, you can also connect with him on LinkedIn here. If you want this content advert free and EARLY - check out our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/TheArsenalOpinion If you want a daily Arsenal newsletter, check out Le Grove: https://www.le-grove.co.uk/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices