2021/22 Premier League Preview – Arsenal
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Following one of the worst seasons in the club’s recent history, Arsenal will eager to hit the ground running in 2021/22. But can they get back among the top four?
• Manager: Mikel Arteta
• Stadium: Emirates Stadium
• Last Season: 8th
Although Arteta is heading into his second full season as Arsenal boss, it’s fair to say that he has yet to win over the entire Gunners fanbase.
Let’s take a look at how Arsenal fared last season before analysing their off-season transfer business. We’ll then discuss the Gunners’ key player and decide what they can achieve this year.
• What Happened Last Season?
Arsenal made a terrible start to the previous campaign, winning just four of their opening 14 games. However, they steadied the ship with a seven-match unbeaten streak either side of Christmas.
Arteta’s side ended the season by racking up five straight wins. But by that point, the European places were already out of reach.
Having finished one point behind seventh-place Tottenham and four points shy of sixth-place West Ham, the Gunners missed out on European football for the first time since 1995/96
Players In
- Ben White – Brighton (£52.65m)
- Albert Sambi Lokonga – Anderlecht (£15.75m)
- Nuno Tavares – Benfica (£7.20m)
While many Premier League clubs have been quiet so far this summer, Arsenal have spent just over £75 million on three players.
The big-money signing of Ben White is obviously the standout deal here, with Albert Sambi Lokonga and Nuno Tavares coming in to bolster the squad.
Players Out
- Matteo Guendouzi – Marseille (Loan)
- William Saliba – Marseille (Loan)
- Dejan Iliev – SKF Sered (Loan)
- David Luiz – Released
The Gunners haven’t sold any players during the off-season. Still, three players have been sent out on loan, while David Luiz has been released.
Let’s not forget that Real Madrid loanees Martin Odegaard and Dani Ceballos have returned to their parent club, too. Time will tell whether or not Arteta will miss that duo.
• Arsenal’s Key Player
Pierre Emerick-Aubameyang – By his own high standards, Aubameyang endured a below-par 2020/21 campaign. The Gabon forward only featured in 29 league games, netting ten goals in the process.
If he can rediscover his best form, however, the 32-year-old has the ability to find the back of the net on a consistent basis and get the Gunners back into Europe.
• What Can Arsenal Achieve in 2021/22?
Although Arsenal have made a number notable signings over the summer, it still feels like they are miles behind the top sides in the division.
While they aren’t likely to finish as low as 8th again, Arteta’s side aren't expected to challenge the likes of Manchester City and Liverpool anytime soon.