Patrick Vieira: Arsenal must toughen up and stop trying to play like Barcelona

Ex-Arsenal captain Patrick Vieira has suggested that Arsene Wenger’s side need to toughen up before they can succeed once again in English football.

The 35-year-old recently opted to take a coaching ambassador role at Manchester City over a possible return to north London, and has since cited the physical difference between Arsenal and other Premier League sides as a key factor behind the Gunners’ limited success in recent years.

The World Cup winner also hinted that his former club may need to stop trying to emulate current Champions League holders Barcelona, suggesting their free-flowing style may not be suited to the English game.

Speaking to reporters, Vieira said: “The problem in the last few years has been the physical difference between Arsenal and the other clubs.

“This team plays good football and creates chances and it is possible to play football and win but you need to believe in it. Arsenal believe in it, but they haven’t managed to win yet.

“Barcelona show what is possible but the Spanish league is different to the English league, and anyway, how many teams have there ever been like Barcelona?

“There is a big expectation now for teams to try to play like Barcelona, but there is a balance that every team should have, especially for the English game.”

Vieira has also revealed how Wenger’s desire to win by playing attractive football may have been a factor behind the club’s six-year trophy drought, but still maintains the highest respect for his compatriot.

He continued: “I am gutted for him because I know how much hard work he has put into Arsenal and how he loves the club. He arrives early and leaves late and spends more time on the training ground than he does at home with his family.

“Of course. But you can understand the situation of the fans. They are used to winning and haven’t won anything for six years.”

The former Juventus midfielder was part of the 2003-2004 ‘Invincibles’ side, and believes that the physical presence of that team was a key part of its success.

He added: “They play better football than we used to do in my time, but our team was more physical and responded better to the English game. We had physicality, we had creativity, we had everything, and maybe now Arsenal lack the physical aspect of the game.”