Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta on Carabao Cup
Image credit: Getty Images
Arsenal legend Ian Wright has urged manager Mikel Arteta to strengthen multiple areas of his squad this summer if the Gunners are to finally end their long wait for a Premier League title.
Arsenal finished second in the league for the third consecutive season, this time behind Arne Slot’s Liverpool, who lifted the trophy in the Dutchman’s debut campaign at Anfield. Despite the continued progress under Arteta, Wright insists that a new striker alone won’t be enough to take the team to the next level.
Speaking on Betway’sSeaman Says podcast alongside former teammate David Seaman, Wright said Arteta must bolster several positions to improve the squad’s depth and resilience.
READ MORE: Sweden head coach provides huge Viktor Gyokeres transfer claims
“I think that mentality-wise, [the squad] is very strong, and it’s going to be vital who he adds to that group,” said Wright. “Apparently Zubimendi’s there, they’re talking about Gyokeres. Whether it’s Sesko—I don’t know who it’s going to be—but I believe we need a main striker, another forward, and probably a backup centre-half.”
Ian Wright with Mikel Arteta
Arsenal legend Ian Wright with manager Mikel Arteta (Image credit: Getty Images)
In addition to reinforcements, Wright believes that luck, especially concerning injuries and refereeing decisions will play a crucial role in Arsenal’s chances next season. Since Arteta took charge, Arsenal players have received 20 red cards in the Premier League, more than any other club in that period.
“We just need a bit of luck with the injuries and the referees. The PGMOL, there needs to be some accountability there,” Wright said. “But at the end of the day, that’s out of your control.”
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He continued his criticism of the Premier League’s refereeing body, accusing them of deflecting responsibility. “They’re skewing it by making it sound fancy. When you listen to their statements on controversial decisions, there’s no real accountability. The PGMOL don’t answer to anyone. They put out a ‘sorry’ and move on. That needs to change.”
Arsenal remain strongly linked with Sporting Lisbon striker Viktor Gyokeres, and speculation has only intensified following a cryptic response the Swedish forward gave while on international duty. Gyokeres was asked by Norway team-mate Leo Østigård whether a move to Arsenal was on the cards.
“Where are you going in the summer transfer window? Can you give us a hint? Is it Arsenal?” Østigård asked.
Gyokeres replied: “We will see. Nobody knows anything yet. I wish I had a more fun answer, but that’s all I can say for now.”
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