So we all know the weaknesses, the problem areas, the soft centre of Arsenal’s 2010/11 campaign but what can we expect/hope for during the summer and into a new season which could be the toughest of Wenger’s 14 and a half year stay on these shores? Mark Chalfen highlighted every single weaknesses and disappointment in his excellent blog here, what I aim to do in this piece is look at what could and maybe even should happen during what hopefully will be a long, hot summer.
Calls for Wenger to be sacked are ludicrous, I have criticised the Frenchman often this season but I firmly believe he should exit this club in a dignified manner, not a tap on the shoulder in corridor. But what is clear is that patience is wearing thin at the Emirates, we all love the style of football but it needs to put trophies on the table ala 1998, 2002 and the Invincibles of 2004. And with prices going up by six and a half per cent, the board need trophies to quell any resentment which is brewing.
Find a formation
So what could happen come the first game on August 13? Well the first change could be in formation, Wenger switched to a 4-4-2 at Fulham in an attempt to finish with a win and while it didn’t produce three points it certainly gave me food for thought. The title-winning teams of 98, 02 and 04 played that way and relied on attacking full-backs going past the wide men knowing there was protection should the move break down.
The new system, in my opinion, does not offer Clichy and Sagna complete protection and can leave them exposed. For me, a switch back to 4-4-2 could result in better football and perhaps more solidity at the back – it’s not the way of the Premier League as everyone appears to be doing 4-3-3 at the moment but I believe 4-4-2 suits Arsenal.
New faces?
Other changes which could happen include new faces – I cannot make truly decide whether Arsene should recruit an experienced goalkeeper alongside Szczesny or let the confident youngster take the gloves full-time next year. Shay Given would be a good recruit for at least two years to allow Woj to develop for me but as the banner says ‘Arsene Knows’.
A centre-half is essential and the press have linked us with Gary Cahill, Phil Jagielka, Chris Samba and Mamadou Sakho. I suspect Sakho will stay with PSG and that Arsenal could end up with Samba and to me that together with Vermaelen will certainly put the wind up Drogba next season! I suspect we may see a new left-back as it looks ike Clichy may be leaving, I sincerely hope not but it could be a chance for Kieran Gibbs to make the position his own.
Adios Cesc?
In midfield, I suspect Le Boss may have had enough of the annual Fabregas will he/won’t he and will get a good price for our skipper. Naturally that could mean Wilshere takes a starring role, perhaps alongside an experienced head in Scott Parker? No Gooner wants to see Cesc say adios but the constant speculation needs to be brought to a halt and, lets face it Arsene always gets a good price for his talent.
Benzema
I suspect the only way will see him at the Emirates is if he is pushed out of Real Madrid with the arrival of new signings but I hope that won't put Arsene off making a cheeky bid or two. The young Frenchman has pace, power and can finish and would certainly be a threat to Premier League defences next term.
Waving goodbye
Going out, I suspect Denilson, Bendtner will lead those heading for the exit door – Denilson looks to have no way back while Bendtner's father is doing all his talking, none of it very conciliatory towards Arsene or Arsenal. A figure of around £10million is being bandied around for the Dane which will also represent good business for a player who has failed to hit the heights despite his obvious confidence.
No real staff changes are expected now it seems Pat Rice is signed up for another year, my biggest fear is that the Frenchman might be thinking about calling time next season when his loyal deputy departs. Whatever happens, we are sure to be in for an interesting ride on the Emirates roller-coaster next term with one of the biggest games coming in August as we try to qualify for the Champions League. Who ever said following the Gunners was boring!
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