Arsenal‘s 2023/24 season ended with a familiar feeling: heartbreak. Despite a valiant title challenge, Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City machine ultimately retained their crown. Now, Mikel Arteta faces a crucial summer transfer window as he looks to bridge the gap and finally end the Gunners’ trophy drought.
Arsenal Players: Who Stays, Who Goes?
With Champions League football secured and a strong core in place, Arsenal don’t need a complete overhaul. However, key decisions need to be made to solidify the squad and address weaknesses. Sun Sport took a look at some of the players whose futures are up in the air:
Goalkeepers:
- David Raya (STAY): Raya‘s impressive loan spell is expected to be made permanent, solidifying Arsenal’s goalkeeping position for the foreseeable future.
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Ramsdale X Raya via Getty images - Aaron Ramsdale (GO): With Raya’s arrival, Ramsdale becomes expendable. Arsenal will look to recoup some of the £30 million spent on him in 2021.
Defenders:
- William Saliba (STAY): A cornerstone of the defense, Saliba‘s long-term contract extension signals his importance to Arteta’s plans.
- Ben White (STAY): Another reliable defender, White recently extended his contract, solidifying the right side of the defense.
- Gabriel (STAY): A key figure in central defense, Gabriel’s partnership with Saliba is a major asset for Arsenal.
Saliba X Gabriel X White via Getty images - Jurrien Timber (STAY): Injury limited Timber’s impact this season, but Arteta views him as a future starter at left-back.
- Jakub Kiwior (STAY): A valuable squad player, Kiwior provides depth and cover in central defense.
- Cedric Soares (GO): With his contract expiring, Cedric’s departure frees up space for a new right-back option.
- Takehiro Tomiyasu (STAY): A versatile defender, Tomiyasu recently extended his contract, offering valuable competition at both full-back positions.
- Oleksandr Zinchenko (GO): Timber’s emergence pushes Zinchenko to the fringes. While a valuable squad member, his limited playing time might force a move.
Midfielders:
- Thomas Partey (GO): Partey’s injury struggles and expiring contract make him a potential departure.
- Martin Odegaard (STAY): The captain and a key leader, Odegaard is crucial to Arsenal’s future.
Jorginho X Odegaard via Getty images - Jorginho (STAY): A steadying influence in midfield, Jorginho’s recent contract renewal reflects his value to the team.
- Emile Smith Rowe (STAY): Injuries hampered Smith Rowe’s season, but Arteta remains confident in his potential.
- Fabio Vieira (GO): A loan move could benefit Vieira as he adjusts to the demands of English football.
Attackers:
- Mohamed Elneny (GO): With his contract expiring, Elneny’s departure marks the end of an era at Arsenal.
- Kai Havertz (STAY): Havertz’s strong finish to the season solidified his place as Arsenal’s starting striker.
- Declan Rice (STAY): Arguably Arsenal’s most important signing in recent years, Rice is a vital cog in the midfield.
- Bukayo Saka (STAY): A world-class talent, Saka is untouchable in Arteta’s plans.
- Gabriel Jesus (STAY): Jesus’ impact goes beyond goals, and Arsenal would be foolish to consider selling him.
Jesus X Saka X Martinelli via Getty images - Gabriel Martinelli (STAY): Despite a dip in form, Arteta trusts Martinelli, and the competition from Leandro Trossard will only benefit him.
- Eddie Nketiah (GO): Nketiah needs regular playing time to progress, and a move away could be best for his career.
- Leandro Trossard (STAY): Trossard’s versatility and goalscoring threat make him a valuable addition to the squad.
- Reiss Nelson (GO): Nelson’s lack of impact could lead to a departure, freeing up space for a new attacking option.
These are just some of the decisions Arteta faces as he prepares for the upcoming season. The right choices will be crucial in Arsenal’s quest to finally end their trophy drought and challenge Manchester City for Premier League dominance.
