The Koln experiment

WARSAW, POLAND – JUNE 28: Lukas Podolski of Germany in action during the UEFA EURO 2012 semi final match between Germany and Italy at the National Stadium on June 28, 2012 in Warsaw, Poland. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)

So Arsenal decided to meet FC Koln for what seemed to a boost to their egos rather than a serious taking stock of their squad. The starting line-up included the latest signing, Santi Cazorla, and celebrated the homecoming of Lucas Podolski. Robin Van Persie started on the bench, clearly paving the way for more rumors.

Olivier Giroud was already winning hearts with his looks, even though his scoring boots were forgotten at home. Vermaelen started show with a pretty header off a corner to net his first of the season. Podolski quickly added two, including a penalty, to confirm his arrival in the number 9. Gervinho finally rounded it off with a smart finish at the near post. The only moment that got us sitting up was when Podolski was cut short and Van Persie came aboard, immediately heading for the captain’s armband from Vermaelen. A well rounded affair, which saw quite a few brilliant moments, including bursts from Arshavin. Quite a few misses too, but given the short trips that Koln was making in to the Arsenal half, that can be pardoned, for now.

That game only left us wondering what will be made of the Arsenal season this time around. The chips are down, just as they have been over the last 7 occasions, and silverware is just as elusive. But majorly, no star has left the team, yet. Wantaway captain Van Persie may just end our misery by staying put, but would that be the ideal solution is what we need to ask ourselves. He may end up going down the same route as a certain Cesc Fabregas who pined for his boyhood club, and eventually left for foreign shores. Alexander Song too has been making the rounds of the rumor mill with experts putting him ahead of Van Persie to leave the club.

With Song’s departure, we may have a void in the middle of the field which Arteta certainly cannot fill with equal ferocity. Abou Diaby isn’t an answer, but Yann M’Vila may just suffice. The Rennes’ defensive midfielder may be Wenger’s first choice if Song decides to sing another tune. Cazorla too is an addition that may help negate the departures. The Nuri Sahin loan rumor too was more than just a fantasy and might find its way to materializing if things go well, and they should, after Mourinho decided in Wenger’s favor.

A full squad, a couple of injuries with Mikel Arteta and Wilshere, and a handful of uncharacteristic signings. Does this really mean that Wenger means business, or will only Robin Van Persie’s presence corroborate the French manager’s intentions. As always, Arsenal have the potential, having tipped the scales with the spending, but can they carry themselves to break the jinx? Your guess is as good as mine.