Five reasons for Arsenal fans to be thankful

Arsenal fans have never been afraid of voicing their opinions. One could even say we’ve gotten a reputation as chronic complainers. Of course, there’s always something we can find fault with, but this new season has given us a lot of positives.

Therefore, in honor of Thanksgiving, here are five things Arsenal fans have to be thankful for right now.

Unai Emery

Last season, the in-fighting among fans over #WengerIn vs. #WengerOut was toxic. The atmosphere around the club was terrible and the mood trickled down to the team.

This is meant as no disrespect to Arsene Wenger. He will always be held in high regard at the club. However, it was time for change.

Emery has instilled a new attitude at the club. He has brought with him new training methods and fostered team unity. In fact, it was his idea to have the team Facetime inured striker Danny Welbeck prior to the Wolves match.

Increased Confidence

Last season Watford’s Troy Deeney accused Arsenal of being soft. His exact quote was that the team lacked “cojones.” It appears that this season the Gunners have found them.

Despite being handed two tough fixtures to open the new season, Arsenal have fought back. The squad has gone undefeated in the league since losing at Chelsea in August. The team also sits top of its group in the Europa League, and have already qualified for the knockout rounds.

Lucas Torreira

Fans have been crying out for a true Patrick Vieira type defensive midfielder for years. While no one will ever physically mistake Lucas Torreira for Vieira, his style of play has earned him high praise.

The Uruguayan’s work rate is top notch. He constantly wins the ball back, makes important tackles and gives the creative players room to roam.

While Arsenal’s defense still needs improvement, Torreira has also helped shore up the Gunners’ back line.

Lacazette and Aubameyang

Remember last season when people were talking about Alexandre Lacazette being a bust? Those same folks are singing a new tune.

When Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang joined Arsenal last January many thought that he was replacing the Frenchman. Instead, in their first full season together, the pair have been exceptional.

Emery has played both strikers together with Lacazette in a central position and Aubameyang stationed on the left. Together the two have scored 12 goals and formed a successful partnership.

Alexis Sanchez is not at Arsenal

Manchester United fans rejoiced last January when they signed disgruntled Arsenal forward Alexis Sanchez. At the same time, Arsenal fans were devastated at once again losing one of their own to a rival.

Almost one year later and the Chilean is still disgruntled. This time, however, it’s Manchester United’s problem. Check out the hashtag #PianoFC to see what the fans are thinking now.

What else are you thankful for with Arsenal so far this season?