Arsenal’s Title Hopes at Risk Due to Arteta’s Transfer Decisions
Arsenal’s season has hit a rough patch under manager Mikel Arteta. Despite being known for his meticulous attention to detail, Arteta’s lack of focus on securing a clear, top-tier striker has led to a series of disappointing results and left the team at risk of finishing the season without a trophy.
FA Cup and League Cup Woes
Arsenal were eliminated from the FA Cup in the third round by Manchester United, following a penalty defeat. This loss came on the back of their 2-0 defeat to Newcastle in the first leg of the League Cup semi-final. These disappointing results have contributed to the growing pressure on Arteta’s squad.
With the team now trailing Premier League leaders Liverpool by six points, despite having played one more match, questions surrounding Arsenal’s transfer strategy have taken center stage.
Transfer Strategy: Missed Opportunities
Arsenal’s focus in the transfer market last summer was on strengthening the defence and midfield. However, they neglected to secure a proven striker, leaving the team dangerously reliant on players who have yet to make a significant impact.
Arteta opted against signing strikers like Benjamin Sesko from Leipzig or Viktor Gyökeres from Sporting Lisbon, instead securing Italian defender Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna and midfielder Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad—neither of whom are traditional attacking threats.
On the attacking front, Arteta made a surprise move by bringing in Raheem Sterling on loan from Chelsea in the final hours of the transfer window. The experienced English winger, however, has failed to live up to expectations, scoring just one goal in 12 matches.
Havertz’s Struggles in the Center
Despite not being a natural center-forward, Arteta has turned to Kai Havertz for goal-scoring duties. The German midfielder has become a symbol of Arsenal’s attacking woes, missing key chances in games against Newcastle and Manchester United, including a crucial penalty miss against the latter.
Injury Setbacks and Offensive Failures
Arsenal’s offensive struggles worsened following injuries to key players such as Bukayo Saka, his substitute Ethan Nwaneri, and Gabriel Jesus, who was forced off during the first half of their match against Manchester United.
The Gunners have struggled to capitalize on their possession and shot opportunities. Against Newcastle, they fired 23 shots, but only three were on target. Similarly, against United, they took 26 shots, but only seven were on target, with their only goal coming from a defender’s fortunate deflection.
The Cost of Missing a Striker
While Arsenal have scored 39 goals in the Premier League this season—just eight fewer than Liverpool—the lack of a clinical striker at crucial moments has proven costly. With the team’s offensive issues continuing, Arteta’s decision to neglect this vital position may cost Arsenal dearly in their pursuit of silverware this season.
