12 years and waiting….
On paper and based on their 2015/16 campaign, Arsenal stand a good chance of securing a first Premier League title since ‘The Invincibles’ romped to the crown in 2004. Arsene Wenger moved quickly to sign Granit Xhaka earlier this summer but Arsenal’s lack of transfer activity since will concern Gunners fans. Whilst their title rivals have been making a number of moves, Arsenal have sat quietly – and supporters will be expecting a flurry of late activity ahead of transfer deadline day.
As of August 9th, Betway’s Premier League odds indicate that Arsenal are 6/1 to win the title this season; but most fans will tell you that the Gunners are still short in two main areas – in central defence and upfront.
Arsenal are struggling to cope with a number of key defensive injuries and Wenger’s men have been linked with a move for former Manchester United star Jonny Evans. Whether this would sit well with Arsenal’s fans or not is another matter…
The anwer?
In attack, Arsenal’s issues are clear for all to see. Wenger doesn’t seem to want to invest but Olivier Giroud cannot cut it on his own. The France international performed admirably at Euro 2016 but it would be foolish for the Gunners to place their full trust in him; he just isn’t consistent enough to hit the back of the net on a regular basis for a whole campaign
Too late for Laca?
Lyon striker Alexandre Lacazette has been linked with Arsenal in recent weeks but the Gunners are yet to make a concrete bid for the 25-year-old. This year, the Gunners will need to be consistently good if they are to challenge for the Premier League title. Arsenal have recently fared better against England’s top sides but have struggled against the “lesser” teams.
However, they simply cannot afford to slip up against the likes of Watford this weekend and Hull City, who are odds on to be relegated this season in Betway’s Premier League odds, Burnley and Middlesbrough. Fixtures against the newly-promoted sides are MUST wins – anything less just isn’t good enough. Arsenal do face all 3 promoted sides by October. By then we will have a clearer picture of the Premier League table.
On their day, Wenger’s men can compete with the best of them but they will need to be lucky with injuries and form to stand any chance of lifting the crown. Arsenal have one of the best midfield units in the country but long-term injuries to the likes of Mesut Ozil and or Alexis Sanchez, as was the case last term, will hinder their chances of glory.
Injuries we cannot afford
Arsenal won’t get carried away but they are not a million miles away from challenging for the title. With a top striker and extra cover at the back, the Gunners could be onto a winner this season – and Wenger may be about to sign out with a fourth Premier League title. Only time will tell but Arsenal could go close this year but the next two signings before the window closes are critical
Watch this space…
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No chuffing chance!