The quiet grumblings that were appearing in the crowds at The Emirates last season have got a little louder this season, presumably because the things they were grumbling about remain exactly the same. No trophies in 6 seasons now and a miss-firing season left the Gunners with a 4th place finish and a manager who finally admitted he’d have to spend to make a difference this season.
Goalkeepers
With the emergence of Wojciech Szczesny last season, Arsenal’s goalkeeping woes have been alleviated somewhat, but there is a good chance that this is one area that Arsene will strengthen. Shay Given has been sitting on his rear for far too long, although his wages may put Wenger off. Other keepers such as Ben Foster or Robert Green could also be on his radar.
Defenders
It’s no secret that this is Arsenal’s weak point, the calamitous Sébastien Squillaci, was signed to provide some experience to the back line, instead he inspired no confidence and was frequently caught out. Arsenal will be boyed by the return of Thomas Vermelen and their two other centre backs, Djourou and Koscielny, look promising, if lacking in confidence and experience sometimes. Arsene will no doubt be looking for a great brute of a centre back to increase Arsenal’s chances of winning a header while also scaring the b’jesus out of opposition strikers. Chris Samba has been heavily linked with the club and would fit the bill nicely, Gary Cahill has also attracted the French manager’s attention. Now that Gael Clichy has joined Man City, they’ll also need to find a new left back at least to provide cover for Kieran Gibbs, unless Arsene puts more faith in Armand Traore, who has returned from a season long loan spell at Juventus.
Midfielders
A lot will depend on if they keep hold of Fabregas and Nasri. If those two stay, expect the midfield to remain almost the same. It’s expected that Fabregas will leave, so the alleged £35million fee is likely to be reinvested back into the midfield. Arsenal have lodged bids for both the Spanish winger Juan Mata and Argentinian playmaker Ricardo Alvarez who will cost them £20million and £12million respectively.
Eden Hazard and Yoann Gourcuff have also been linked with a move and come highly recommended. Arsenal also desperately need to add some steel to their midfield, a replacement for Vieira was never really found, and a lightweight midfield has been a hindrance to Arsenal for many a year. There are some players who are likely to leave this summer, Arshavin, who has fallen spectacularly from grace has been linked with moves elsewhere, while Denílson has made no secret of his desire to leave.
Forwards
With Bendtner looking likely to be praising his own talents elsewhere next season and Chamakh who failed to live up to expectations after his move from Bordeaux, a new striker is high on Arsenal’s list. As Robin Van Persie plays his best football by dropping deep, an out and out striker would be ideal. Gervinho has been heavily linked and is expected to move soon, he could suit arsenal’s style and add a new dimension to their play. Arsenal have also recently been linked with a move for Wolves front man Kevin Doyle, although I doubt Arsene would win over many fans with a signing like that.
Arsenal have been on the cusp of great things for far too long now, and a small amount of investment in key areas is all that is needed to turn this team from almost to awesome.
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