Arsenal Great Criticizes ‘Bad’ Move After Tough Loss
Arsenal’s hopes for the Premier League title took a hit when they lost 1-0 at home to West Ham. This defeat, along with Liverpool’s win, now leaves Arsenal trailing by 11 points. Former player Ian Wright is not happy. He believes the club didn’t do enough in the transfer window to boost their attacking lineup, which hurt their title chances. Arsenal Legend Slams ‘Terrible’ Decision.
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Injuries Show Lack of Squad Depth
Arsenal has faced several injuries to key players like Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus. Some might be out for the rest of the season. Because of this, Arsenal struggled to create chances against West Ham and had a pretty dull game.
With so many injuries, coach Mikel Arteta had to use midfielder Mikel Merino as a makeshift striker. While he did well before, he didn’t make much of an impact against West Ham. This injury problem has put a spotlight on the lack of depth in Arsenal’s roster.
Wright Questions Arsenal’s Transfer Decisions
On The Kelly and Wrighty Show on Optus Sport, Ian Wright was very clear about his thoughts on Arsenal’s transfer moves. He was frustrated they didn’t pick up a striker, saying they have needed one for three years.
“They’ve missed five chances to bring in a good forward,” Wright noted.
He also called out Arteta’s talk about only signing players who fit the club’s goals. He thinks Arsenal should be able to find the right player in the market.
“It’s bad business from the board to not add anyone when Saka and Jesus got hurt, especially when they’re fighting for the title,” said Wright. “Even before the injuries, they needed more forwards.”
Wright on the Need for Stronger Leadership
Wright thinks Arsenal’s transfer issues come from not having a strong director of football. He pointed out that other clubs, like Aston Villa, have done well by making smart signings to strengthen their squad.
“They knew they had to push for the Champions League and acted on it. That’s what Arsenal should have done after last season,” Wright said.
He also believes signing goalkeeper Neto on loan was a mistake, saying it wasted a chance to bring in a field player.
Should Arsenal Make Changes with Arteta?
Even with the recent struggles, former Premier League keeper Mark Schwarzer cautioned against rushing to judge Mikel Arteta. He understands the disappointment of not winning big trophies but believes Arteta is working hard to make Arsenal competitive again.
“Do I think he’s in danger of losing his job? Not at all,” Schwarzer said on The Optus Sport Football Podcast. He advised fans to think carefully before asking for a change, saying Arsenal is still a strong team.
Though Arteta has only won the FA Cup since 2019, Schwarzer thinks the team is improving. He pointed out Arteta’s ability to better players and the team’s performance overall.
“Fans are upset about not winning the league, but the club is heading in a good direction,” he added.
A Crucial Time for Arsenal
With the title slipping away and questions about Champions League success, Arsenal is at a crucial point in their season. It’s unclear if they can turn things around and improve their squad in the future. But as Wright highlighted, not strengthening the team when it mattered has already cost them. Arsenal Legend Slams ‘Terrible’ Decision.
