Arsene Wenger was pleased with his side’s fighting spirit as Arsenal came from behind to earn a points at Goodison Park against Everton.
The Gunners have made an unbeaten start to the season yet questions been raised about their title credentials already.
In both their Premier League matches, Arsenal have shown great fighting spirit till the end and earn points, but the fact that they found themselves in trouble at the first place only suggests that shortcomings have not been eradicated completely.
Arsenal have done some serious business this summer. But have they strengthened enough? Based on what we saw on the opening two matches, it gives the impression that further surgery is required in the squad. And that too immediately.
Striker issue – Edinson Cavani / Radamel Falcao
Alexis Sanchez is a world class forward. But he is not an out-an-out no 9. Wenger deployed him as a lone striker/ withdrawn role (as false nine) against Everton, but that experiment only lasted 45 minutes.
The complexion of the game changed completely when Olivier Giroud was introduced. Suddenly Arsenal could find a target man and construct positive moves in and around the box.
But what options Wenger have without Giroud? Yaya Sanogo or Joel Campbell are too young to win you matches week in week out.
Arsenal need a world class striker/no 9. They have been linked with a move for Cavani, the highly rated Uruguayan striker, but it seems like PSG are not willing to sell him this summer.
Radamel Falcao can be a good alternative option. The Monaco striker is eyeing for a move and a season long loan deal for the former Porto man won’t be a bad option.
Defensive midfielder – William Carvalho
Arsenal have submitted two official bids for Portugal midfielder William Carvalho, if the reports are to be believed.
That clearly shows Wenger is keen to sign a top class defensive midfielder.
The perennially injured Abou Diaby has only made 32 league appearances in last four seasons. Jack Wilshere has so far looked a shadowy figure.
It leaves Arsenal with only Arteta and Flamini to cover the role and neither of them has provided enough stability to the back four last season.
Arsenal midfield looked toothless in the opening 45 minutes against Everton. There was no midfield resistance at all. Gareth Barry was given time of his life to pick passes.
There was no urgency in the midfield to close the opposition down.
Sami Khedira could have been ideal, but it seems like Real Madrid are not keen to part ways with the German star. Carvalho is equally a good option for the Gunners.
Replacement of Vermaelen – Kostas Manolas
Calum Chambers is a promising youngster but is a player for the future. He needs time to settle and mature gradually.
Arsenal have yet to start a game with their trusted pair of Mertesacker and Koscielny and there seems a lack of strength in depth in this department.
Arsenal need to find a physically strong and imposing central defender. The Gunners have been linked with Greek defender Kostas Manolas, who impressed heavily during the World Cup in Brazil.
What’s the pressing need of Arsenal now? With only a week remaining in the transfer window, does Wenger need a striker/ defender or a midfielder? Share your reactions below.
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