Alright, Gooners, let’s get into it. The 2025-2026 season is on the horizon, and while there’s a buzz of excitement with our recent transfers, as dedicated fans, we know there are always hurdles to overcome. Here’s a look at the challenges I foresee for our beloved Arsenal in the upcoming campaign, from a purely fan’s perspective.
The Emirates is buzzing. The transfer window has seen some serious intent from the club, with names like Viktor Gyokeres, Martin Zubimendi, Noni Madueke, Christian Nørgaard, Cristhian Mosquera, and Kepa Arrizabalaga already through the door. The whispers of Eberechi Eze joining too have us dreaming. On paper, our squad looks stronger, deeper, and more formidable than ever. But as every Gooner knows, football isn’t played on paper. Here are the key challenges I believe Mikel Arteta and the lads will face in the 2025-2026 season:
**1\. The Weight of Expectation: Premier League or Bust?**
We’ve come so close in recent seasons, finishing second multiple times. The narrative has shifted from “progress” to “contenders.” This season, with the significant investment and strengthened squad, anything less than a genuine title challenge will feel like a missed opportunity. That’s immense pressure, not just on the players, but on Arteta too. Can they handle the constant scrutiny and the feeling that this has to be our year? The fan-base will be demanding, and rightly so, after years of building.
**2\. Integrating New Faces: Finding the Right Blend Quickly**
While the new signings are exciting, integrating several key players into the first team and maintaining fluidity is a challenge. Gyokeres is expected to lead the line and provide the prolific goal-scoring we’ve craved. Zubimendi will be crucial in midfield, and Madueke offers another dimension out wide. How quickly will they gel with the established core of Saka, Ødegaard, Rice, Saliba, and Gabriel? Pre-season will be vital, but the real test comes in the unforgiving early weeks of the Premier League. We need immediate chemistry, not a slow burn.
**3\. Maintaining Squad Depth and Managing Injuries: The Perennial Problem**
Last season, injuries to key players like Gabriel, Ødegaard, Saka, and Havertz exposed a lack of depth at crucial times. While we’ve brought in more options, the sheer volume of games across the Premier League, Champions League, and domestic cups will test our resources. Can the new additions truly step up when needed, or will a few unfortunate injuries derail our momentum again? The fitness and conditioning staff will have a monumental task. The early signs with Gabriel, Timber, and Calafiori being fit are good, but the season is long.
**4\. Overcoming the “Big Game” Hurdle: Sealing the Deal**
Despite our progress, there have been moments in recent seasons where we’ve faltered against our direct title rivals or in crucial European ties. Whether it’s a mental block or a tactical misstep, finding that extra gear to consistently beat the likes of Liverpool and Manchester City will be paramount. Our head-to-head record in these games will likely determine our ultimate success. The additions of players with experience at a high level, like Kepa, could be beneficial here.
**5\. Tactical Evolution: Avoiding Predictability**
Arteta has built a clear identity, but as teams analyse our play more intensely, the challenge will be to evolve tactically and remain unpredictable. Can we adapt our approach when faced with different defensive setups or when key attacking players are stifled? The introduction of new profiles in the squad should allow for more tactical flexibility, but it’s up to Arteta to harness that and keep opposition managers guessing.
**6\. Managing Outgoings and Squad Harmony: The Unseen Challenge**
With new arrivals, there will inevitably be players who find their game time reduced. Reports suggest potential departures for Zinchenko, Fabio Vieira, Karl Hein, Sambi Lokonga, Reiss Nelson, Gabriel Jesus, and Leandro Trossard. Managing these situations gracefully and ensuring squad harmony remains intact is crucial. A discontent player can quickly become a disruptive influence. Keeping the dressing room united and focused on the collective goal, especially if some players are not getting the minutes they desire, will be a delicate balancing act for Arteta.
**7\. The Unpredictable Premier League: No Easy Games**
Even with a strong squad, the Premier League remains the most competitive league in the world. Newly promoted teams will be desperate to make a mark, and every team poses a unique challenge. Avoiding complacency and maintaining consistent high performance against all opponents, not just the “big six,” is essential. Dropped points against perceived weaker opposition can be just as damaging as a loss to a direct rival.
**Images courtesy of Reuters/Action Images**