I've been reflecting on our team from last season that was scrapping for results and went on the unbeaten run.
We had Cech in goal, and a backline of Bellerin, Sokratis, Holding, and Monreal. We played Xhaka and Torreira in front of them.
This season we've had Leno in goal, and a backline of Chambers, Sokratis, Luis, and Kolasinac. We've played Guendouzi and Xhaka in front of them.
We've only kept 2 of those 7 around due to injuries and player sales. On paper Leno, Sokratis, and Luis should be performing well, but the full backs are definitely worse, while the lack of defensive cover offered by Guendouzi and a breakdown in form from Xhaka.
If you look ahead to the future of our fullbacks you've got Bellerin hopefully coming back to form and Tierney maybe hitting form towards end of the season. Their back ups aren't up to standard.
Our CB's in Holding, Chambers, and Saliba give me hope - Mavropanos I'm not sure of, while Sokratis & Luis need to be moved on for a CB in the 26-28 age range who can shepherd these young guys through while they're in their own peak.
In midfield Xhaka seems to be done with the club/fans, while Guendouzi needs more time. Again we need a solid CM in their prime to come in and raise up the talents of Willock, Guendouzi, Smithe-Rowe with experience.
We've got 3 world class players up top, 1 in goal, and we need to invest in 2 through the middle to complete the spine.