Robin, why exactly are you smiling?

By Dominic Vieira, writing from London

In an ideal world, that smile means “yes, I’m staying”. I’d like to believe that too, but that decision solely belongs to Robin Van Persie. I’m sure Mr. Wenger, like me and the passionate Arsenal fans, all share the same opinion. Despite being a great businessman, the manager will not want to lose such a fundamental player once again. It’s a different case when compared with previous exits and unlike them, Wenger’s smart summer captures suggest that he’s trying to seduce Van Persie to sign a new deal, rather than play another season. Nobody wants to manage a player who doesn’t want to be part of the team and nobody wants to lose Van Persie.

Arsenal have sensibly impressed in the market as they’ve strengthened themselves with the arrivals of Podolski, Giroud and Cazorla; they’ll deliver versatility, speed and goals. More importantly, Wenger’s spending spree probably won’t end here as he’ll be looking to lure a midfielder to the Emirates. Changes are being made and it’s going to be exciting to see how they’ll start their campaign, hopefully with Van Persie assuming a leading (and voraciously goal-scoring) role once again.

He’s simply irreplacable. Although Arsenal were virtually bullied to sell Nasri and Cesc this time last year, the Dutch international has remained in North London, where he subsequently inherited the captain’s armband and enjoyed his most prolific (and injury free) season. His performances naturally awarded him a collection of individual accolades, but footballers prefer something far greater than that: collective trophies.

Despite bolstering their squad, there’s no guarantee that success will finally be achieved this year. After all, it’s worth understanding that competition is painfully fierce as Manchester City remain unchanged, Chelsea have continued to sign more talent and Manchester United is Manchester United. In simpler terms, Arsenal’s race for the Premiership title will become tremendously more difficult if Arsenal’s talisman leaves.

Van Persie could go anywhere, as long as they’re willing to pay the transfer fee and salary, which isn’t feasible for many clubs. But what hasn’t been clarified is Van Persie’s genuine intention to leave. His departure could signify a desire to a) win titles; b) earn more money or c) play in another league. It’s fair to assume that each option would take the player to a different team. Nevertheless, none of those clubs can promise to deliver the following: d) adoration by fans or e) playing in a system which maximises his ability.

After watching Arsenal last season, it is evident that Wenger’s style suits Van Persie, after losing certain key players, he built a team around Robin who responded with bags of goals. It was his best season ever. To contrast this perspective, analyze the striker’s performances at this summer’s Euro 2012, where he played alongside some of the most visionary and intelligent players. 1 goal and how many misses?

At the end of the day, there’s really no point holding onto a player who doesn’t intend to be part of the club; I’m sure Villas-Boas would attest to that with an endless, pounding ‘Luka’ headache right now. However, Arsenal have responded well, reinforcing their attacking sector, and now they’re expected to bring in another midfielder. They’re going to be stronger team, still a relatively young squad, but one that has gained experience and strengthened with quality.

There’s always the possibility that Arsenal could endure another empty season, but optimism surrounds Arsenal’s chances to finally lift the silverware which they’re hungry to conquer, with or without Robin Van Persie. But I like to envisage that he’ll be the one lifting it. And probably, so do all the Gunners.