Alonso Eyes Repeat Of Xhaka Success With Arsenal's Undervalued Star

Laila Abdi

4 min read

Post on May 29, 2025

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Emile Smith Rowe's Current Situation and Undervalued Potential

Emile Smith Rowe, a highly touted academy graduate, has faced a challenging period. While showcasing undeniable talent in flashes, injuries and increased competition have limited his consistent first-team appearances. Despite this, his potential remains vast, making him a prime candidate for the "undervalued star" title.

• Examples of Skill: Smith Rowe's vision and passing ability are exceptional. He's demonstrated this with several key assists and moments of creative brilliance, particularly in his earlier career. His goal against Tottenham in the North London Derby showcased his clinical finishing.
• Statistical Evidence: While his stats might not reflect his potential due to limited playing time, advanced metrics show consistently high key passes per game and impressive dribble success rates when he's been on the pitch. This suggests a hidden potential waiting to be unleashed.
• Reasons for Undervaluation: Smith Rowe's injury history, coupled with the emergence of other attacking midfielders, has led to some overlooking his potential. Furthermore, the media narrative often focuses on Arsenal's big-name signings, sometimes overshadowing the contributions of homegrown talent.
• Media Narratives: Articles often highlight the team's need for more established players, sometimes failing to mention Smith Rowe's potential as a valuable asset within the squad. This creates a perception of him as less important than he actually is.

Parallels with Xhaka's Arsenal Transformation

The transformation of Granit Xhaka under Arteta offers a compelling parallel to Smith Rowe's potential. Both players possess a strong technical foundation, but initially faced criticism for inconsistency and decision-making.

• Similarities: Both players are technically gifted with exceptional passing ranges. Xhaka's strength in long-range passing is mirrored by Smith Rowe's ability to thread through balls to create chances. Both players can improve their defensive contributions.
• Arteta's Coaching Impact on Xhaka: Arteta’s coaching significantly improved Xhaka's positional discipline, his tactical awareness, and crucially, his mental fortitude. The manager instilled confidence and helped Xhaka become a more consistent performer.
• Applying Arteta's Methods to Smith Rowe: Similar coaching strategies could elevate Smith Rowe's game. Focused work on defensive positioning, improved decision-making in the final third, and building his confidence could unlock a consistently high-performing player.

Alonso's Role in Player Development & Tactical Suitability

The arrival of Juan Carlos Valerón (Alonso) as a coach adds another dimension to Smith Rowe's potential development. Alonso's reputation for nurturing young midfield talent is well-documented.

• Alonso's Coaching Expertise: Alonso's experience and focus on developing young players, particularly in midfield positions, suggests a strategic understanding that is well-suited to Smith Rowe's needs.
• Tactical Alignment: Alonso's tactical approach often emphasizes creative midfield play and fluid movement—a style that perfectly complements Smith Rowe's strengths. This could provide a perfect environment for the player to grow and flourish.
• Tactical Adjustments: Alonso could help Smith Rowe refine his decision-making under pressure and improve his consistency. Working with Alonso could refine Smith Rowe's off-the-ball movement and improve his overall tactical intelligence.

Potential Impact on Arsenal's Squad Dynamics & Future Success

A revitalized Smith Rowe could significantly boost Arsenal's performance. His return to peak form could elevate the team's overall playing standard.

• Enhanced Squad Dynamics: A fully fit and confident Smith Rowe would add creativity and dynamism to Arsenal's midfield, providing a significant attacking threat.
• Contribution to Arsenal's Goals: Smith Rowe’s return to form could play a crucial role in achieving both short-term (e.g., securing Champions League qualification) and long-term objectives (e.g., challenging for major trophies).
• Impact on Trophy Wins: A revitalized Smith Rowe could add crucial goals and assists to Arsenal's campaign, playing a decisive role in their pursuit of silverware.

Conclusion

Emile Smith Rowe possesses untapped potential, mirroring aspects of Xhaka's pre-transformation journey. Under Arteta and Alonso’s guidance, he could become a pivotal player for Arsenal. His development could significantly strengthen the squad, boosting their chances of success. Keep an eye on Emile Smith Rowe's progress; he could be the next Arsenal's undervalued star to shine brightly under Arteta's tutelage. Follow us for more updates on Arsenal's promising talents and their journey to becoming key players.