3 players who could make the difference at the Emirates
3 players who could make the difference at the Emirates
By Dominic Vieira, writing from Lancaster, England
Arsenal are a club which must be lifting titles, not losing finals or constantly finishing 3rd or 4th in the table. They’re a young team which generally play the most appealing football in the country, but every year it’s the same concern: where are the trophies? Arsene Wenger’s side has all the capabilities to succeed, there’s a culmination of hunger, youth and quality present. However, they lack they winning mentality when compared to the likes of Chelsea or Man Utd and the inclusion of a three world class signings could be the solution.
Firstly and foremost, an accomplished, intelligent and experienced man is urgently required in the middle. Fabregas is an irreplaceable element in the team but still hasn’t developed that commanding voice every winning needs carries. Andrea Pirlo would be perfect in every sense. His position in the starting XI would allow Fabregas to play further in midfield under more freedom and less responsibility. Pirlo can link the midfield to the attack or flanks, his passing range is unbelievable due to his majestic vision and his positioning is ideal. However, he was recently released by Serie A champions AC Milan and a move to Juventus seems to be imminent. Arsenal will have to act swiftly to complete a last minute deal for the 32 year old.
Estimated cost: Free
Another striker is needed, Chamakh has not convinced and Bendtner is a fairly limited player. A goalscorer is precisely what Wenger should be pursuing, a man who can sit in the box, beating the offside trap to finish with either feet or head. Chicharito has been a huge success at United and Arsenal need the same threat. One player who is impeccable for this position is FC Porto’s Falcao, a dangerous complete poacher.
The 25 year old has been sublime for the Portuguese side where he’s scored 72 goals in 85 games over the course of two seasons. Falcao scored an incredible header in the Europa League Final against Braga.
Demand will be high for the striker, but FC Porto are prepared to sell if the right fee arrives. His red hot form will increase his price, but goals are guaranteed with this man. Watch him this summer at the Copa America scoring in the Colombia strip.
Estimated cost: £22m - £26m
A successful team always possesses two solid, efficient and functional centre-backs. A partner for Vermaelen is essential as Koscielny is not a secure option and Squillaci has been poor this season. Which leaves Djourou as the other option, who’s not a bad player but lacks consistency.
An affordable reenforcement in terms of price and wage is signing Bolton’s Gary Cahill. A tall, comanding and physical centre-back who holds 3 international caps for England. His development has boomed this which have been evident with his outstanding performances. The 25 year old is heavily linked with moves to several big clubs. However, it’s likely a move to the Emirates would be favorable if he’s guaranteed first team football.
Estimated cost: £14m - 16m
A goalkeeper has been an ongoing debate at Arsenal since Lehmann’s departure and a replacement was expected last summer. However, since 21 year old Wojciech Szczesny made his league debut in December against United, he has risen to the challenge with some impressive performances. He is definitely young and inexperienced but his potential is evident. Rather than spend more uneceesary millions on an established keeper, give the boy time to flourish. After all, Iker Casillas started at a young age.
The saga will continue as Fabregas will be a recurring headline in the Catalan press. However, he must stay as he is the heart and soul of Arsenal and the team captain. It’s doubtful that Cesc will be a Gunner for his entire career but he’s vital in the teams plans as they revolve around him. If he does leave, Wilshere will naturally and instantly inherit his place making it an easy transition for the team. Ramsey who could eventually fill his boots, but needs more time and games. Plus, if Arsenal lift the title next year would their captain still want to leave?
The inclusion of these three players would transform Arsenal into a refined challenging side with options and flexibility. Experience (or the lack of it) will always be a criticism thrown at this team and the only way to overcome it is by winning the Premier League as United did in the early 90’s. It’s time to start investing!
Arsenal 2011/2012?
