Why It Is Vital Aaron Ramsey Takes Euro 2016 Form into Arsenal’s New Season

At the start of each new season, a sense of optimism envelops the Premier League.

Fans believe that a fresh start could bring about the changes needed to transform their teams from also-rans to title-challengers. After Leicester City’s surprise success last season, the feeling that anything could happen is only going to be stronger.

It’s no different at Arsenal, who will hope that this the year they can finally reclaim a place at the summit of the Premier League. If they are to do that, the form of Aaron Ramsey will certainly play a vital role.

When a new campaign kicks off, the eyes of the fans are typically focused on new arrivals in the squad. However, Ramsey will also be under intense scrutiny when competitive football returns, though he’s been with Arsenal since 2008.

The reason for the increased attention is that Ramsey was absolutely outstanding during Euro 2016, his dynamic performances propelling Wales to the semi-finals of the competition. Had he not been suspended for that last-four tie with Portugal, perhaps they would have got even further.

Arsenal legend Thierry Henry was emphatic in his praise of Ramsey’s displays, telling Mike McGrath of the Sun, “You are always going to talk about Gareth Bale, as he was outstanding, but for me Aaron Ramsey was as good, if not a bit better.”

For the watching Arsenal fans, there would have been a curious mix of emotions—pride, certainly, but also some frustration. Why had Ramsey shone so brightly for Wales after a very underwhelming season at club level?

It’s partly a consequence of Ramsey’s status within the side. Ramsey is one of many stars at Arsenal, whereas he is one of only two top-class talents in the Welsh squad. 

That plays into the second major factor in Ramsey’s excellent Wales performances: his deployment. As one of the team’s most important players, Chris Coleman is prepared to build his team around the former Cardiff City man.

That means playing in central midfield. Typically, Ramsey played as one of a trio of midfielders, with license to break forward and join the likes of Bale and Hal Robson-Kanu in attack. That suited his game perfectly: Ramsey has incredible stamina and was able to cover plenty of ground and lend support wherever he saw fit.

The player is on record as stating that central midfield is his best position. He said …

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