Arsene Wenger is getting his way and football is all the worse for it

Writing for The Sentinel, columnist Mike Pejic argues that modern football has become worse due to Arsene Wenger's lobbying on IFAB advisory boards, which he claims has turned the sport non-contact by stealth. Pejic contends that eliminating physical challenges has made it too easy for players to buy fouls and allows top teams to keep possession without real resistance.

Pejic also criticizes modern tactical trends, asserting that non-elite teams make mistakes by copying possession-heavy styles instead of attacking directly. While noting positive evolutions like banning tackles from behind, the former Stoke City player believes defending has lost its craft and hopes teams prioritize purposeful forward play.