English Premier League 2013-2014: What to expect from Arsenal

Arsene Wenger

In about a month’s time, the English Premier League teams will embark on a journey for glory. New managers and players will clash and fans will sing songs of passion and hatred. And this season, like no other, starts without Sir Alex managing United. So that begs a question, can someone knock Manchester United off their throne? And if so, who will it be? In this article, we’ll discuss if Arsenal might just be the team to do so.

Arsenal, what a story… From the mighty Invincibles to a modern day mocking stock. The once most frightening team in the EPL has gone eight years now without a trophy, and nine with out a League triumph. Where did it all go wrong? Some blame Arsene Wenger, others blame the board and management, while some blame players for being too greedy, such the case with Samir Nasri. But playing the blame game won’t get us anywhere. So now what?

This summer, unlike any other at Arsenal, the board announced that funds were available in abundance. The largest transfer kitty in Arsenal’s history. Now could that change things? I for one say definitely. That is, of course, if they spend it.

The problem with the Arsenal squad is that they don’t possess a truly first class player, a game changer if you will. Manchester United have Van Persie and Wayne Rooney, while Manchester City have the likes of Aguero and Silva and Yaya Toure- players who could turn the tide of any match with one moment of brilliance.

Chelsea have Juan Mata and Eden Hazard. Spurs seem like they are keeping Gareth Bale. Even Liverpool have a world class star in Luis Suarez, who, apart from his moments of insanity, is one of the most talented players in England.

Arsenal, on the other hand, have Wilshere and Cazorla, great players no doubt, but not at the same level of any of the players mentioned above. Some Arsenal fans might argue they are, but when push comes to shove, they would have Bale or Hazard above Cazorla any day.

So that in my opinion is the real problem- there is no true star player. Every year, Arsenal would lose their main man, most often than not to a rival. But the problem is this season no one was that good to be afraid of losing them.

Arsenal must hit the ground running in the transfer market, which they have failed to do so until now, but there is still time. I believe that if they could secure the signatures of Felliani, Higuan, Williams, and another player who adds some flair to the team, they could well be on their way to a title challenge.

Sadly, though, it seems like that’s not happening. Arsenal fans have had their share of disappointment, believe me I know, but the heartbreaking thing is that it seems like there is going to be more.

Wenger promised names- Higuan, Rooney, and even Suarez was mentioned. And what do they have to show for all that talk? A free transfer of an injury-prone attacker from the second tier in France in the shape of Sanogo. At this rate, with Chelsea and City and Tottenham buying, Arsenal should not just fear losing the title, but even their beloved top four spot. They must spend, and spend big.

Lastly, Arsene Wenger. Well, I believe Wenger is a genius, really do. A man who can bring stability in a top four position for so long with a club which has no true “outstanding” player is not an easy feat.

Yes, he did have Fabregas and Van Persie and Nasri and co., but I believe it would have been easier if he didn’t have them instead of having to sell the player you build your team around year after year.

I think if Arsenal do buy, and buy quality, in this transfer market then Wenger has a chance. And a good one at that. The changing of managers all around him gives them the edge. But he can’t win the league with Abu Diaby and Ramsey. He needs first class players. In short, he needs another Henry.