Arsenal have already signed Stephan Lichtsteiner from Juventus to strengthen their right-back position, with Hector Bellerin being the first choice. However, with Nacho Monreal’s future in doubt and Sead Kolasinac unable to cement the left-back position, the Gunners are interested in signing Djibril Sidibe from Monaco.
The Frenchman can play as a full-back on either side and operate as a wide man too. His docility will allow manager Unai Emery to play him according to the condition of the team and the opponent.
If bought, Sidibe is physically well-built to tackle the intense demands of the club and the league. He has the recovery pace to track runs when required, which is a key ingredient in the English game.
Here’s everything you need to know about the player and why he can make a difference at Emirates stadium:
Player Analysis – Djibril Sidibe
Age – 25
Main Position – Defender (Left or Right), Midfielder (Right)
Sidibe is quite a versatile player who can play on either side of the defence and also act as an option on the offensive wing. He is a player who likes to be defensively responsible as a full-back before making forays up the pitch.
The 25-year-old is a solid defender in one-on-one situations, making an average of 2.2 tackles per game to stop opposition wingers. The Frenchman is a good reader of the game and can intercept through passs diligently, at a rate of 1.7 per game.
The Monaco man is always a threat going forward. With 2 goals and 7 assists in 27 league appearances last season, he epitomizes his impact on the offensive side of things. He has a key pass rate of 1.2, indicating that he needs to be marked when in possession.
Sidibe’s probably only weakness is the carelessness he exhibits while on the ball. He was dispossessed 19 times in 27 games, which is a high number for a defender moving forward with the ball. However, this can be ironed out as time goes by.
All in all, the Frenchman can be a useful player who can help Arsenal in various aspects of their game. Both Kolasinac and Bellerin will be alerted, however, if the 25-year-old arrives. After all, he has the quality to take over the first-choice role in a flash.
Read More: Opinion – This versatile midfielder could be the key to Unai Emery success at Arsenal
If Arsenal need someone versatile and effective in their wide defensive positions, Sidibe is the man. The Frenchman possesses the attributes required to make the difference at the Emirates Stadium. Furthermore, it will be an opportunity for the player to come to England and magnify his prominence.
Stats Courtesy – Whoscored.com
