Arsenal legend Ian Wright has delivered a stern warning to the club’s board, insisting that Mikel Arteta’s team risks losing momentum this season unless reinforcements are made during the January transfer window.
The Gunners squandered a two-goal advantage against Aston Villa on Saturday, settling for a 2-2 draw under former Arsenal manager Unai Emery.
This result leaves Arsenal six points adrift of Premier League leaders Liverpool, who secured a commanding 2-0 victory over Brentford with Darwin Nunez netting twice in injury time.
After the draw, Arteta voiced concerns over the squad’s limited attacking options. With injuries plaguing the team, Raheem Sterling was the only senior forward available on Arsenal’s bench, highlighting the lack of depth in the squad.
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Wright: Arsenal’s Depth is Concerning
Speaking to Premier League Productions, Ian Wright emphasized the urgency of squad reinforcements:
“It’s tough for Arsenal; they’re down to the bare bones. You look at the bench, and there’s not even an attacker with a Premier League goal this season. It’s very bare.”
Wright also criticized the decision to play midfielder Thomas Partey at right-back, citing Arsenal’s poor record with him in that position:
“We’ve won just one game out of six with Thomas Partey at right-back. It’s a vulnerable position for us. The manager needs help from the board now. He’s done all he can with the resources available.”
Arsenal’s Transfer Window Needs
Wright urged the board to act swiftly, highlighting both defensive and attacking deficiencies:
“We need players, attacking and defending. The team looks mentally and physically tired. If reinforcements don’t come in soon, it’ll be hard to maintain any momentum.”
The former striker expressed doubt over Arsenal’s ability to challenge Liverpool for the title without bolstering the squad:
“Not with the way we’re playing right now, not with the players we’ve got. Liverpool are relentless, and their depth shows.
Arsenal fans will wonder if the summer spending could’ve been better used on a striker, as it’s been an area of concern for years.”
A Race Against Time
With Liverpool in dominant form and Arsenal struggling with injuries, Wright stressed the importance of maximizing the final weeks of the transfer window.
He praised young talents like Myles Lewis-Skelly, who has stepped in admirably, but insisted that relying on youth alone isn’t enough:
“If we want to stay in this race, something has to happen. Liverpool are setting the pace, and Arsenal can’t compete without reinforcements. It’s now or never.”
Ian Wright’s plea reflects the growing concerns among Arsenal fans about the squad’s depth and fatigue.
With the January window nearing its end, the Gunners’ ambitions for the season could hinge on the board’s willingness to invest in much-needed signings.
