Mikel Arteta`s speech at the Emirates on Sunday showed a clear shift in tone.
Unlike last season, when he was emotional yet defiant after finishing two points behind Manchester City on the final day, this time the Arsenal manager`s words carried anger and frustration after confirming a third consecutive second-place finish with a 1-0 win over Newcastle.
The Spaniard stated, “We had a dream, which was to bring you guys the big trophies. Unfortunately, we haven`t been able to do that.”
He added, “But make sure that pursuing that dream doesn`t lose focus.”
“Make sure we pursue that dream with enthusiasm and positivity towards next season.”
Looking ahead to a pivotal summer for the club, Arteta then did something he had previously avoided: he publicly addressed the owners.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Arteta said, “Finish the season, go to the beach, enjoy a few days, and make sure the ones upstairs do what they have to do.”
This was a clear, undeniable, and rather blunt message, serving as a reminder to the board of the crucial nature of this transfer window and the necessity of avoiding errors.
Directed clearly at Stan and Josh Kroenke, the club`s owners, Arteta understands that Arsenal is close to winning major trophies but needs reinforcements, which must be acquired in the coming weeks and months.
Failure to do so could lead to the loyal fanbase, supportive throughout his five-and-a-half-year tenure, turning against their coach and demanding changes in their quest for titles.
To prevent this, Arteta plans to be decisive with both new signings and player departures.
Even trusted players may not be safe from being moved on.
In his post-match press conference after the Newcastle game, he acknowledged, “We need players because the squad is very thin, and furthermore, we are losing four or five players whose contracts are ending, and loans are concluding.”
“Therefore, we need to be sharp, very disciplined in our approach, and ensure we are strong next season.”
These “four or five” players include two loanees: goalkeeper Neto from Bournemouth and winger Raheem Sterling from Chelsea.
Sterling is unlikely to extend his stay at Arsenal, and his future in England remains uncertain due to minimal communication from Chelsea during the season.
His loan has been considered underwhelming. Arteta had hoped for a greater contribution from a player he admired during his time as assistant at Man City, bringing him in late on deadline day last summer to add depth.
However, some would argue that Sterling was given limited opportunities to build form, starting only seven games across all competitions since January, even during Bukayo Saka’s three-month injury absence.
Arteta seems to have already decided on the 30-year-old`s future, choosing not to play him last weekend in what would have been his final appearance at the Emirates.
While young Ethan Nwaneri (18) has shown potential backup on the right, Arteta aims to sign a left winger this summer, potentially challenging the starting positions of Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard.
If top target Nico Williams arrives from Athletic Bilbao, Trossard might be sold to generate funds. The Belgian has one year left on his contract and has been linked with a transfer to Saudi Arabia.
Arteta`s decisive approach also extends to the left-back position. Kieran Tierney is expected to rejoin Celtic soon as his deal expires, while Oleksandr Zinchenko has attracted interest from Borussia Dortmund after Myles Lewis-Skelly from the academy took his place.
Although the 28-year-old Ukrainian`s leadership, dressing room influence, and versatility are highly appreciated by Arteta, with only 12 months remaining on his contract, this summer presents an opportunity to sell a player signed from City for £35m in 2022.
The midfield situation also needs addressing. After the win against Newcastle, the 33-year-old Jorginho seemed to be bidding farewell on the pitch with his family, suggesting a return to his native Brazil to finish his career as his contract nears its end.
Thomas Partey (31) is in a similar contractual situation. However, sporting director Andrea Berta is reportedly interested in discussing a contract extension for him, despite an apparent £51m agreement already in place for Real Sociedad`s Martin Zubimendi. (Note: Arsenal`s Sporting Director is Edu Gaspar)
Arteta admitted last week that he was aware the Arsenal squad was too small even before the current season began.
Therefore, with potentially five players leaving, the club will aim to bring in at least five replacements.
Potential targets and their approximate fees include Zubimendi (£51m), Williams (£50m), Sporting Lisbon striker Viktor Gyokeres (~£60m), and Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia (~£25m).
This summer is set to bring significant changes at Arsenal, which Arteta believes are essential for achieving major success.
