Arsenal and the importance of ‘bounce’ passes - The Athletic

Arsenal has recognized the necessity to evolve this season to improve upon their previous second-place finishes in the Premier League, and after 10 games across all competitions, they are demonstrating a distinct point of difference, primarily through the implementation of 'bounce' passes under manager Mikel Arteta.

In the past three seasons, various factors hindered Arsenal's performance: in 2022-23, Arteta's inability to swiftly adapt led to a damaging run of three consecutive draws in April; in 2023-24, they addressed that issue but lost crucial points against lower-ranked teams; and last season, injuries to key players like Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz, and Martin Odegaard, along with six red cards, proved decisive in their setbacks.

Arteta acknowledged the need for change this year, emphasizing after a 5-0 victory over Leeds United in August that the team must evolve while preserving their strengths and making adjustments for added value. Eight games into the season, these tweaks are evident, particularly in midfield, contributing to Arsenal's current top position in the Premier League.

Previously, Arsenal's passing often became slow and ineffective against compact opposition defenses, but this season, they have adopted bounce or wall passes to penetrate stubborn defensive structures. This tactic involves two to three players: player A passes to player B, who draws defensive pressure, and then immediately returns the ball to player A or another teammate, allowing them to exploit the space left by the advancing defender.

The effectiveness of this strategy was first observed in a pre-season win over Athletic Club, where new signing Martin Zubimendi and Odegaard combined effectively to create space for Saka, highlighting the tactical evolution that is now paying off in competitive matches.