Arsenal chase Premier League glory in the 2025/26 season. Mikel Arteta is laser-focused on fostering fierce internal rivalry across the squad. With injuries testing resilience and a grueling schedule ahead, the Gunners’ strategy emphasizes depth to sustain performance. Arteta’s mantra? No complacency. Every spot must be earned.
Arteta’s Vision: Depth as a Weapon
Mikel Arteta has long preached the benefits of competition, viewing it as fuel for excellence. “It helps the team, it helps every individual,” he stated recently. This approach shone in summer signings like Viktor Gyokeres, supporting an already sharp roster. The result: tactical flexibility without quality dips, crucial amid Champions League and domestic demands. Yet, Arteta admits past limitations: “So far, we haven’t had that, so we’re looking forward to having everybody on it.”
Attacking Firepower: A Crowded Frontline
Nowhere is the intensity more evident than up top. Gyokeres, the £80 million summer coup from Sporting, leads the line but faces scrutiny after inconsistent form. Gabriel Jesus, revitalized post-injury, and versatile Mikel Merino provide genuine alternatives, allowing Arteta to rotate based on matchups. This “unbelievable” depth, as rivals note, keeps attackers sharp and defenses guessing.
🗣️ "It's going to be a different level of threat"
Mikel Arteta on Arsenal's squad depth going into the new season 🔺 pic.twitter.com/ixZdmvdPGR
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) August 17, 2025
Midfield Vulnerabilities: The Depth Deficit
While attack thrives, central midfield exposes gaps. Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi have logged over 90% of league minutes, with injuries sidelining Rice briefly. The summer addition Christian Norgaard has barely featured (just 31 minutes), and Merino’s forward shifts leave the No. 6 role thin. Fatigue looms large; experts call for an “experienced, top-level backup” to inject competition.
January Ambitions: Actively Hunting
Arteta confirmed Arsenal will be “actively looking” in January, prioritizing reinforcements where depth falters. Targets could include midfield anchors, ensuring every position pulses with rivalry. This evolution positions Arsenal not just to compete, but dominate by transforming the squad depth from luxury to necessity in the title race.
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