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Arsenal always seem to fall short when it comes to the Premier League which brings everyone to the same conclusion; they need to sign more players, which in some respects is true. However, towards the end of last season it became clear that with the introduction of Francis Coquelin, Arsenal were able to adjust their style of play which gave them a solid defensive structure that they have lacked in recent years.
The Gunners were undoubtedly the best team in The Premier League during the second half of last season which saw them beat rivals such as Liverpool and Manchester City. They also went on an eight game winning streak. This suggested that Arsenal’s current squad has the ability to win the league title.
However, you cannot rely 100% on their form towards the end of last season due to the fact the team were under no pressure at all thanks to Chelsea blowing the league away with their dazzling performances in the first half of last season. The difference between Arsenal and Chelsea last season was that when Chelsea were playing poorly they were still able to win games, whereas as Arsenal dropped points.
Which leads to the next point, what do Arsenal need to win the Premier League?
The current Arsenal squad is certainly good enough to challenge for the league, however to push them over the line and actually win it they need to sign a world class striker. If you look at all the top teams in the world they all have a main man upfront who scores at least 20 goals in the league, and although Olivier Giroud is a very good player and will guarantee 10-15 goals in the league, he does not quite fit into the world class bracket.
Some would argue that Arsenal have many different goal sources in midfield and out wide, with the likes of Santi Cazorla and Alexis Sanchez, however there have been games where the Arsenal midfield has struggled to break defences down, for example the goalless draw at home to Sunderland. Giroud had many chances to score in that game but failed to convert one, where as if they had someone like Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema, they may have been able to snatch a 1-0 victory.
Of course it is easy to say Arsenal need a striker, but who is available? The most spoken about striker is Benzema, but it is still unclear whether he is in the future plans of new Real Madrid manager Rafa Benitez or not. Furthermore, Benzema’s agent has spoken about his clients future and has said he is “1000%” certain he will not leave the La Liga giants.
If Arsenal fail to sign a striker I would not rule them out of the title race. Theo Walcott looks to be signing a new contract; could he be the man to spear head Arsenal’s attack? With a hat-trick in Arsenal’s last Premier League game and a goal in the cup final, he has reminded many what he can do if he is played through the middle. He has also continued his good form, scoring two goals in Arsenal’s pre-season games, but the only question is, can he win Arsenal the league?
Although the the start of the new season is close, Arsenal fans may have to wait until deadline day for a new striker if they are in for one.
