Often regarded as the laughing stock of the Premier League “big six”, Arsenal have over the years struggled to compete for trophies or qualify for the Champions League.
The last time the Gunners played with the big boys of Europe was in the 2016/17 season and the fans have grown impatient with the club.
Arsenal fans were perhaps reminded of how much a work in progress the squad was when they lost 2-1 to Hibernian in their preseason opener on Tuesday.
With the continual decadence by the club, what could be the way forward? If they have ambitions of returning to Europe’s most prestigious competition, Arsenal would have to carry out the following to put a stop to that:
Spend money
It’s no secret that Arsenal have not been spending as they should. This is one of the underlying reasons for the #Kroenkeout protests. Arsenal need to buy players to be able to compete with the Premier League’s best.
Manchester City, Liverpool, Manchester United and Chelsea are examples of clubs that have spent adequately enough in the transfer window.
The fact that London rivals, Chelsea are not just competing in Europe’s top competition but also going as far as winning it while Arsenal are struggling to qualify for the Europa League should be a wake-up call for the Gunners.
The Blues spent over 200 million in the previous season, winning the Champions League as a return for their investment. The Arsenal hierarchy needs to borrow a leaf from their neighbours and spend adequately if they are to secure a Champions League spot in the upcoming season.
Hire an experienced coach
Mikel Arteta may have won the FA Cup and Community Shield in his first season as Arsenal boss, but this shouldn’t render him untouchable if the Gunners continue to play poorly.
The arrival of Thomas Tuchel as Chelsea manager midway through the season is a textbook case on the importance of having an experienced coach.
The German tactician and multiple trophy winner took over from club legend Frank Lampard following a poor run of results. The former PSG manager turned their season around and went on to secure a top-four finish with the Blues as well as win the Champions League trophy.
It appears Arsenal would have to do the same as it’s obviously not working under Arteta. It is very likely that the players could benefit immensely with a change to a more experienced manager.
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Change of transfer strategy
Arsenal must learn to be more effective in maximizing funds and making money from player sales and contract deals.
For example, Barcelona sold Neymar to PSG for a World record €222m, Liverpool sold Coutinho for around €150m, Chelsea sold Hazard for around €120m, Benfica sold Joao Felix for around €120m.
These were all profitable deals for the clubs not only financially, but they served as compensation for the talents lost. They also used the money to recruit good players to strengthen their squads.
For Arsenal, the most expensive departure in the club’s history is still Marc Overmars who made the switch to Barcelona in the 2000/2001 season for a reported fee of €40m. This is despite having exceptional talents over the years like Thierry Henry, Nicolas Anelka, Robin van Persie amongst others.
Over time, Arsenal have become known for free transfer exits and collecting ‘peanuts’ from teams for their star players. This has inadvertently stunted income and transfer budget.
A change of strategy is required. Players’ contracts should be well thought out and promptly extended as the case may be. Release clauses should be commensurate to the quality of the players to prevent players from leaving at an undervalued price.
In conclusion, Arsenal must do their homework if they want to regain their reputation as Champions League regulars. From being Champions League regulars, maybe, just maybe, Arsenal fans can hope that Europe’s most coveted trophy, could come to the Emirates.
What do you think about Arsenal trophy ambitions and a possible return to the Champions League? Can they return soon? Let us know in the comment section.
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