Arsenal winger Christos Tzolis is already attracting comparisons with former Gunners favourite Alexis Sanchez after a lively performance against Coventry, with supporters encouraged by the Greek forward’s direct running and decisive play in the final third.
The £75m arrival of Bruno Guimaraes has understandably dominated discussion around Arsenal’s summer recruitment. However, Tzolis is quickly emerging as another strong candidate to become the club’s standout signing of the transfer window.
Coventry’s defence struggled to contain the winger, whose incisive runs repeatedly unsettled the back line. Tzolis had already impressed during pre-season, contributing to six goals in six matches, and his performance on Friday suggested he is ready to test himself at the highest level of English football.
The 23-year-old’s progress is particularly notable given that he failed to establish himself at Norwich four years ago. He has since exceeded expectations and earned a move to North London from Club Brugge.
Tzolis combined his attacking threat with sustained defensive work, pressing Coventry whenever Arsenal lost possession. His pressure helped create the opening goal after he anticipated Milan van Ewijk’s pass, won the ball and found Ricardo Calafiori. The defender then supplied Kai Havertz, who completed the move.
Arsenal doubled their advantage eight minutes later. Carl Rushworth managed to parry a cross from Tzolis, but Saka reacted first to the loose ball and followed up to score.
The most encouraging aspect of Tzolis’ display was that his influence did not disappear after his strongest spell. Unlike forwards who can fade after an explosive start, he remained energetic and continued looking for opportunities to affect the game.
Although he did not find the net himself, his attacking intent was clear. His willingness to carry the ball forward and create openings won over the home supporters, who gave him a warm reception when he was replaced in the second half.
Those fans have already begun drawing parallels with Alexis Sanchez. It is too soon to make a firm judgement, but the comparison is based on more than Arsenal’s shared number 17 shirt.
Both players offer a direct style, a low centre of gravity and an aggressive determination to continue moving forward when challenged by defenders. Those qualities helped make Sanchez such a dangerous player during his time at Arsenal.
Tzolis has also spoken openly about his admiration for the former Chile international.
“I actually know that he (Alexis) wore the number 17 shirt. I’ve watched a lot of football, and he was a very good player for Arsenal, especially on the left wing.”
“He was one of the players I admired most when I was younger. I do see some similarities between us.”
The clearest feature of Tzolis’ performance, however, was his decisiveness around the penalty area. Once he reaches the final third, he appears willing to make a quick choice between passing and dribbling rather than spending too long in possession.
That offers a contrast with Gabriel Martinelli, who can take longer to decide on his next action. Martinelli is Tzolis’ direct rival for the position but was left out of the squad again, having also missed Arsenal’s Community Shield meeting with Manchester City.
Eberechi Eze provides another option in the role, and competition between the Englishman and Tzolis could develop. For now, though, Tzolis appears to have secured the starting place.
Martinelli’s continued omission raises questions about his future. Arsenal have been open to selling the Brazilian since last summer and would consider a suitable offer.
Galatasaray are interested, although Martinelli does not want to leave. With the transfer window entering its final week, it remains unclear what bids may arrive as the forward appears to be moving closer to the exit.
That uncertainty has created an opportunity for Tzolis. If he can reproduce his performance against Coventry, Arsenal’s summer signing may soon look like a considerable bargain.
AF’s PC site is now live! Browse full news, comments, match details, and stats on your computer. Visit:www.allfootballapp.com
