Tuesday’s demeanor in the Uefa Champions League meant Arsenal needed to recover and adjust from the horrific display in Dortmund.
So it was no surprise when Mesut Ozil was drafted to the middle alongside Aaron Ramsey, with Santi Cazorla on the left flank and the pacy Oxlade Chamberlain entrusted to the right wing.
That adjustment yielded positives for the Gunners, as £16m Danny Welbeck teed Ozil on goal, that the former Real Madrid Midfielder had no qualms finishing .
Before the game, Arsene Wenger was forced to defend the World Cup winner from critics, stating he has no regrets bringing him to England, and fans must be patient with the 26-year old.
Moments later, Ozil on the left wing, sent in a teasing cross unto Danny Welbeck who scored his debut goal to send the away fans to raptures.
Aston Villa’s misery was further exacerbated when Aly Cissokho scored an own goal to put the game beyond reach for Paul Lambert’s men.
Afterwards, Arsene Wenger, grinning from ear to ear told BBC:
“We had a good work-rate and concentration from the start. We had a very good first half when we were in control and dominated the game.
“They [Danny Welbeck and Mesut Ozil] combined very well, especially in the first half. Our plan today was to play Mesut behind their midfield and it worked.
“I’m confident we will go from strength to strength now.”
Arsenal’s start to the game was in contrast to their outing in the Westfalenstadion Stadium. They controlled possession early on, slowing the tempo of the game in the process, frustrating Villa who love to press the ball swiftly from defense to attack.
His decision to move Ozil to the middle was a winning factor for the gaffer. The Germany international had a scintillating performance- orchestrating play and also made a formidable bond with Danny Welbeck.
The Gunners defense also took responsibility this time. Koscienly and Merteshacker were compact and composed, while Kieran Gibbs burgeoning runs in the final third was effective. More of such radiant display and the boys from NorthLondon can challenge for the title.
Real Madrid are apparently enjoying life without the influential Di Maria. They made known their title aspirations when they visited Deportivo in the LaLiga.
At Half-time, Ancelloti’s men were already 3-0 goals to the good; Cristiano Ronaldo opened the floodgates, James Rodriguez scored a stunning goal, and the FIFA World player of the year found a brace.
Deportivo were awarded a penalty moments after restart, Haris Medunjani converted with ease to bring a lifeline.
But Gareth Bale goals in quick successions gave that hope a reality check, before Ronaldo completed his hatrick.
Javier Hernandez got a brace in the closing stages. it ended Deportivo 2-8 Real Madrid.
