Position last season: 2nd
Outlook: The lingering disappointment from finishing as runners-up to Manchester City once more has been tough to shake off after a strong challenge in the Premier League. Despite setting several club records, including 35 wins in 52 matches, ending the season without a trophy was a significant setback for Mikel Arteta and his squad. Defeats to Aston Villa and Bayern Munich within a few days proved decisive. However, the new season brings renewed optimism that a young yet experienced team might finally secure a title. Arteta often mentions the “fine margins” in winning top-level trophies and hopes his players will channel their past disappointment into winning their first Premier League title since the Invincibles in 2004.
With the addition of the highly talented Riccardo Calafiori, who is expected to enhance last season’s strongest Premier League defense, the team’s foundation is solid. The Italian defender should address the left-back issues, but Arteta must also find the ideal midfield setup following Declan Rice’s successful stint in a more advanced role after Christmas. Arteta is also looking to bring in Mikel Merino to bolster the midfield. Kai Havertz’s notable performances in the new year have reduced the demand for a new striker, though it remains to be seen if an attacking reinforcement will be made. A backup for Bukayo Saka – who featured in nearly 60 games for club and country last season – would be appreciated by many fans. Nevertheless, Arteta, having taken four points off City last season, believes his team has the potential to improve further.
To unwind, Arteta enjoys spending afternoons meditating or reading books on decision-making, such as Malcolm Gladwell’s Blink. Given his meticulous nature and the challenge of outmaneuvering his former mentor, Guardiola, it’s no surprise that Arteta reportedly wakes up at 5:30 am every day, preoccupied with thoughts of winning. While Arteta is well-regarded by his players, he is also known for his decisiveness—evidenced by fan favorite Emile Smith Rowe being deemed expendable and subsequently joining Fulham. Arteta is entering his fifth full season since succeeding Unai Emery in 2019, and he is fiercely motivated to end City’s reign.
Off-field Situation
Arsenal’s owners have substantial financial resources, as demonstrated by their investment of over £200m last summer in players like Rice, Havertz, and Jurriën Timber. Although Kroenke Sports & Entertainment’s value increased by £2.3bn last year, plans for additional spending this summer have been limited by profitability and sustainability regulations due to last year’s substantial expenditure. Despite this, further signings are anticipated, even if peripheral players like Reiss Nelson and Eddie Nketiah might be sold to balance the finances. A key factor in Arsenal’s resurgence under Arteta has been his strong partnership with sporting director Edu and co-chair Josh Kroenke, who have been pivotal in reshaping the squad.
Breakout Star
Timber’s Premier League debut was marred by an anterior cruciate ligament injury, but the Netherlands international is eager to make his mark. If he can remain healthy, Timber will effectively be like a new signing for Arteta, offering versatility across both full-back positions, central defense, and even as a midfield pivot. The 23-year-old also has a knack for scoring spectacular goals, as seen in his first game back from injury with Arsenal’s Under-21s last season. Additionally, Arsenal fans are hopeful that academy talents like Myles Lewis-Skelly, Ethan Nwaneri, and Salah-Eddine Oulad M’Hand will make an impact after impressing during the pre-season tour to the US.
The Star Player
Martin Ødegaard possesses both the looks and the talent to stand out, even if Gabriel Martinelli recently ranked higher in a poll of the Premier League’s most attractive players. Alongside Saka, who remains a fan favorite after emerging from the Hale End academy, Ødegaard has demonstrated leadership both on and off the pitch. He showed significant maturity when addressing the Emirates crowd following the season’s final match. With Norway not participating in Euro 2024, the 25-year-old has had a chance to rest and will be focused on helping Arsenal reach new heights.