Arsenal's Summer Spending Spree
Arsenal's £205million summer spending spree has left manager Mikel Arteta with a few selection headaches as the team prepares for the Premier League kick-off against Nottingham Forest on Saturday. The signings of Declan Rice, Kai Havertz, and Jurrien Timber, along with the imminent arrival of goalkeeper David Raya, have put pressure on the players who helped Arsenal finish second in the title race.
Goalkeeping Dilemma: Ramsdale or Raya?
Mikel Arteta surprised many by pursuing the signing of David Raya so soon after Aaron Ramsdale's arrival and new contract. While Ramsdale remains Arsenal's first choice for now, Raya's superior ball skills mean that Ramsdale will need to improve his playing out from the back to secure his position. Raya comes recommended by goalkeeping coach Inaki Cana, enhancing the competition within the team.
Options Galore in Defense
Arsenal wants to avoid a repeat of their title challenge collapse last season, and the signing of Jurrien Timber from Ajax for £34.5million bolsters their defense. Timber's versatility as a full-back and center-half allows him to rotate with Ben White and Oleksandr Zinchenko. However, starting Timber and Zinchenko together might leave the team vulnerable at the back. Jakub Kiwior, Takehiro Tomiyasu, Kieran Tierney, and Rob Holding provide additional defensive backup.
The Rice Conundrum
Thomas Partey's presence as a central holding midfielder has made Mikel Arteta rethink Declan Rice's place in the team. Arteta believes his team is more solid with Partey in the holding role, and Rice's partnership with Martin Odegaard and Kai Havertz looked lightweight during a pre-season defeat. Nonetheless, Arteta has options in midfield with Jorginho, Emile Smith Rowe, and Mo Elneny waiting in the wings.
Decisions to be Made in the Attack
While some may assume the front three picks itself, Gabriel Jesus' recovery from knee surgery and the surprising choice of Kai Havertz leading the line during the Community Shield victory over Manchester City raises questions. When everyone is fit, Arsenal's strongest attack consists of Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli on the wings and Gabriel Jesus up front. Leandro Trossard and Reiss Nelson provide competition and options from the bench.
Did you miss our previous article…
https://www.sportingexcitement.com/football/premier-league/chelsea-fans-react-to-trivago-tweet-as-transfer-deal-goes-sour/
