Arsenal’s Attacking Shape and Chelsea’s Struggles
In more settled possession phases, Arsenal played in a 3-2-5 shape with Lewis-Skelly intermittently dropping into central midfield. Ødegaard and Rice also dropped deeper at times, trying to create confusion with their movements.
However, what stood out was Arsenal’s lack of central penetration. This has been a recurring theme throughout the season, where they have rarely played through defensive blocks. Even with Chelsea providing openings, Arsenal funneled most of their attacks down the right side.
In more settled possession phases Arsenal would play in a 3-2-5 shape with Lewis-Skelly dropping in and out of central midfield. Odegaard and Rice would also drop and try to cause confusion with their movement.
— Fahd (@fahdahmed987) March 18, 2025
What was noticeable was the lack of central penetration from… pic.twitter.com/oHjd2K5Ep1
Chelsea’s high-pressing approach against Arsenal’s build-up shape from goal kicks was a simple man-oriented setup. While it effectively prevented Arsenal from building out from the back, it did not matter much, as Arsenal have shown throughout the season that they prefer going long anyway. Arsenal positioned themselves in a 4-2-4 structure, with Ødegaard dropping deep alongside Partey.