Morning all.
I noticed the picture of the Arsenal gamers on the PFA Awards final night time, 5 of whom made it into the group of the season, and two issues occurred to me. First, we’ve some superb gamers, and whereas we look forward to somewhat extra to be added to the squad, I feel we must always really feel fairly reassured by that. I do know it’s not essentially what anybody needs to listen to, however this squad doesn’t want main surgical procedure this summer season.
You may all the time use a bit additional, however I don’t suppose that is like earlier switch home windows the place there have been large, apparent gaps that must be stuffed for us to make progress. I do suppose we are able to get extra out of this present squad, however clearly I might additionally like us to be energetic earlier than the tip of the window (past the tediously imminent arrival of Mikel Merino).
The second factor I assumed was: The place the hell is Bukayo Saka? Simply the 20 targets and 14 assists in all competitions final season, and he’s not there? Certain, Cole Palmer took plenty of penalties and performed very nicely for Chelsea, whereas Flat Observe Phil Foden had a productive season himself, however Saka’s absence stands out to me. I do know it’s not likely a giant scandal within the grand scheme of issues, however nonetheless.
Talking of Merino, it’s being reported that Actual Sociedad President Jokin Aperribay has travelled to London to shut the deal. Final week we heard that Edu was in Spain, however maybe he was merely sourcing some prime class Txuleta for his barbecue, and never in Bilbao negotiating for the providers of a midfielder I feel we actually want as a result of issues about a few our extra senior squad members.
It appears there’s some disparity between what they need (€40m) and what Arsenal are ready to pay, but when there are extra head to head talks and the participant continues to be disregarded of the Sociedad squad, then I feel some type of compromise is inevitable. I get why they need as a lot as attainable, however he’s bought lower than 12 months on his present deal, and might depart without spending a dime subsequent summer season. That doesn’t give them an enormous quantity of leverage, however they’re clearly making an attempt exhausting.
Anyway, even when issues have been to be sorted at this time, it means it’s a case of what we’ve we maintain for Villa on Saturday, as Merino could be unlikely to be concerned at such quick discover. Then there’s a house recreation in opposition to Brighton earlier than the primary Interlull of the season, so if we do add extra gamers earlier than the tip of the window, likelihood is we don’t see them till the North London derby after the break.
When you take a look at how Riccardo Calafiori is being eased into motion, then I’d think about another additions would possibly get the identical type of remedy. Which is ok so long as we’re profitable video games, however I then return to the purpose I made on the prime which is that it is a good group with good gamers who’re able to doing what must be performed in opposition to Villa and Brighton. Watch this area, I assume. Or, you recognize, an area the place switch information occurs first for those who’re actually eager.
In the meantime, Arsenal Ladies are within the US, and Tim Stillman is on the market protecting issues for Arseblog Information. He spoke to boss Jonas Eidevall in regards to the alternative to attach with followers, and he’s producing a tour diary whereas he’s over there – first version of which you could find right here.
We might be persevering with our protection of Arsenal Ladies all through the season, with a extra common podcast schedule too – hopefully bringing you one thing after each recreation in the same type of format to Arsecast Additional (with fewer magpies and different nonsense although!). If you wish to sustain with that, simply bookmark our Arsenal Ladies part and test again often for tales, updates, information and plenty extra.
Lastly for at this time, right here is your official Arseblog line-up for the 2024-25 season, let’s maintain every thing crossed it’s a superb one. For now, have a fantastic Wednesday.
