Mustafi reveals reasons behind Arsenal’s early success

Mark Scott
Shkodran Mustafi: Talks up Arsenal's prospects

Shkodran Mustafi: Talks up Arsenal's prospects

Shkodran Mustafi believes Arsenal’s excellent start to the season is down to two new-found characteristics as they hunt for silverware.

The Germany defender hailed the Gunners’ tactical nous during an 11-match unbeaten stretch that hit new heights in Wednesday’s 6-0 Ludogorets thrashing.

The former Valencia star also believes Arsenal now have the tools to switch their approach if their preferred method stalls.

“It’s about having identity, and we are doing very well reading the game,” said Mustafi.

“Sometimes it’s important to go and win the ball in the final third but sometimes it’s about staying back, being compact and trying to win the ball in the middle of the pitch.

“That’s what makes big teams win titles, reading the game well.

“So it’s not only about us simply playing our game.

“Sometimes if you see that it doesn’t work you have to change it and you have to be able to change your style of play.

“And we’re doing that well, because sometimes we’re just playing always in the half of the opponent, and sometimes we’ll just drop and play counter-attack.”