He adds very little to attack since he takes no risks. He ‘deflates the play (attack)’ as we say in Spanish, he’s got no finishing ability, and he plays at one speed. All of his positive attributes come from his length. He’s very difficult to win the ball from when dribbling, he wins most everything in the air, and he pokes a lot of balls away when defending.

I don’t think it makes up for his attacking deficiencies overall but I mean to say he’s not a defensive liability, he’s actually useful in retaining possession.

There will be times when his reliability in possession and his defensive qualities (his length) outweighs his attacking deficiencies. For example: when trying to maintain a 1 goal lead or when you’re down a man. Also, when you’re playing easier opposition, I think Arsenal have enough overwhelming attack that Kai ‘deflating the play’ doesn’t much matter.

However, it’s absolutely frustrating watching him play when the score’s even and the team overall isn’t creating opportunities, particularly when we’re running out time. He’s a big hole in terms of creativity. I generally don’t think he’s a good player, but I’ll defend that he’s got his uses in specific situations. I’ve tried to outline those above.