3. Mikel Arteta (2.6 tackles per game)
Given the impressive nature of Mathieu Flamini’s performances in the Gunners’ side, Mikel Arteta’s own bite in the tackle has almost been forgotten.
Arteta has played in the holding role for Arsenal for a few seasons now, and despite his rather quieter nature on the field in comparison to his French colleague, the Spaniard is surprisingly tenacious, and willing to commit a cynical foul to halt an opposition attack if necessary.
Arteta and Flamini have formed a solid partnership in defensive midfield that enables the Gunners ahead of them to focus on their attacking qualities, with the benchmark example being against Napoli in the UEFA Champions League.
As solid as Arteta has been, his somewhat ponderous style and slow distribution of the ball can prevent Arsenal from playing the free-flowing football they are renowned for, and perhaps Flamini brings more of a sense of urgency.
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