Potter must deploy £32m star in a new role to prevent disaster against Arsenal – opinion
West Ham United travel to North London for a Premier League clash against Arsenal on Saturday.
Graham Potter desperately needs a strong result against Arsenal to validate the stylistic improvements he has implemented at West Ham with tangible success.
Since taking over at the London Stadium last month, Potter has seen his team slide further away from the Premier League’s top ten.
However, he has had to navigate a brutal fixture list while dealing with an increasing injury crisis, with Vladimir Coufal the latest casualty.
Potter is well aware that his squad needs reinforcements, and he is reportedly planning a significant rebuild in the summer transfer window.
However, for now, he must maximize the potential of the players currently at his disposal.
One tactical adjustment that could help against Arsenal is utilizing Edson Álvarez in a new role. Facing the Gunners is a daunting challenge, and Potter must think creatively to secure a positive result.
With Coufal injured, the idea of Konstantinos Mavropanos starting is concerning.
To mitigate this, Potter should exclude the Greek defender from the lineup and instead deploy Álvarez as part of a back three, alongside Jean-Clair Todibo and Max Kilman.
In midfield, Carlos Soler could partner with Tomáš Souček to provide stability.
This tactical shift could offer West Ham the best chance of frustrating Arsenal and getting a result.
Álvarez’s composure on the ball and ability to play out from the back would be invaluable against Arsenal’s relentless high press.
The Mexican international, signed from Ajax for £32 million in 2023 (Evening Standard), has largely underwhelmed at West Ham. Reports even suggest Potter may offload him in the summer.
Álvarez has struggled in central midfield, lacking the athleticism and dynamism required for the Premier League.
A switch to a defensive role, where he can dictate play from deep, could allow him to finally showcase his strengths.
If Potter wants to get the best out of his current squad, adjusting Álvarez’s position could be a crucial move against Arsenal.
