Arsenal finished 3rd this season in the Premier League and won the FA Cup, now twice in a row. So, they have made considerable improvement over previous seasons, however, Arsene Wenger will be looking to mount a title challenge next season and so big team changes are on the cards.
The Gunners have been linked to a number of several big transfers to begin with. But Wenger is said to be pragmatic in his approach and would be involved in some shrewd signings rather than spending lavishly on big-name players like other big clubs. An excellent scouting system and a rejuvenated transfer policy has brought hope to millions of Gooner fans about their team emulating the 2005 invincibles once again. The projected 11 are as follows:
1. Petr Cech
Wojciech Sczesny and David Ospina have more or less held firm between the bars this season but the entry of the Czech international would bring reliability as the previous goalkeepers have been susceptible to errors. Chelsea have held firm about a
£10million transfer fee but a certain Cech would certainly shore up the defence.
2. Hector Bellerin
The former Barcelona man has been a revelation this season with pacey runs down the flanks and some intelligent play beyond his tender age. His success has kept Mathieu Debuchy on the bench and he would certainly keep his place in the 11.
3. Gabriel Paulista
The former Villareal man has taken his time to settle in but with an ageing Mertesacker, he certainly has the opportunity to come good this season. Sharp and agile, he provides apt qualities in defence to what Wenger needs.
4. Laurent Koscielny
Arguably Arsenal’s best defender this season and has developed a number of potential suitors now including Bayern Munich. Pacey and good in the air, he provides guile to the backline.
5. Nacho Monreal
The former Malaga man has been lethal down the flanks this season scoring some crucial goals as well. Wonderful close control and astute defending has managed to keep Kieran Gibbs on the bench and the Spaniard certainly keeps his place.
6. Yohan Cabaye
Though Francis Coquelin has excelled in the central defensive role this season the entry of Cabaye brings a lot of Premier League experience to the squad. And due to the hefty fee demanded for Morgan Schneiderlin by Southampton, Cabaye would be a good acquisition.
7. Santi Cazorla
The backbone and the gel binding the team together, Cazorla does everything from building up the play, setting up a killer pass to defending. A very valuable asset.
8. Aaron Ramsey
Wonderful close control, a good passing ability and a knack of scoring goals has got rumours flying about
Barcelona submitting a bid. But the midfielder is expected to stay and the so-called ‘pride of Wales’ certainly is an integral part of the team.
9. Mesut Ozil
Though the 42m man hasn’t lived up to his massive transfer fee, but he came good in the 2nd half of the season cracking open defences with exquisite through balls. Might be forced to drift down the flanks but equally effective when cutting inside. Keeps his place.
10. Alexis Sanchez
The PFA Fan’s player of the year,the 35m Chilean has lived up to his billing. A tireless worker, astute dribbler, and exhilaratingly pacey, he keeps his place too.
11. Karim Benzema
Wenger has been a long-time admirer of the Frenchman, and his exploits with Real Madrid despite playing second fiddle has even got Manchester United calling. With Olivier Giroud failing to transform into a World class striker, the former Lyon man would certainly solve Arsenal’s problems upfront.
Substitutes:
1. David Ospina: With Szczesny falling out of favour, and with a couple of dependable performances, he remains out back-up keeper.
2. Mathieu Debuchy: The recent exploits of Bellerin has forced him onto the bench. Injuries have hampered his campaign too.
3. Per Mertesacker: The German World Cup winner brings considerable experience and would be a healthy backup.
4. Jack Wilshere: Considered England’s finest talent 2 years ago, injury has forced him out and next season would certainly be a good time to come back.
5.Francis Coquelin: Has been a revelation this season, and will give Cabaye ample competition.
6. Danny Welbeck: With Giroud looking to be sold, Welbeck will have to play a major role too.
Others including Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Theo Walcott, Kieran Gibbs, Tomas Rosicky, Joel Campbell, Calum Chambers, Mikel Arteta, Chuba Akpom will play an integral part too.