Arsenal fans are filled with optimism as their team aims to challenge for the Premier League title for the third consecutive season. Despite finishing just a few points behind Manchester City in the past two seasons, Arsenal fans believe that this could be their year. In a recent survey conducted by The Athletic, fans were asked several questions about their thoughts on Arsenal’s summer transfer window and their hopes for the upcoming season. Let’s dive into the results and explore what Arsenal fans had to say.
## How happy are you with the window overall?
The majority of Arsenal fans who participated in the survey (66.2%) expressed their happiness with the club’s summer transfer window. This sentiment is understandable considering that Arsenal did not undergo major changes in their squad. While other summer windows saw the arrival of high-profile signings, this year’s focus was on adding the right pieces to an already strong team. The late addition of Raheem Sterling on loan from Chelsea and Bournemouth’s Neto provided the necessary profiles that Arsenal needed. Overall, fans are content with the window and are eager to see how the new signings will contribute to the team’s success.
## Who was the best signing?
When it comes to the best signing of the summer, there was a close split among Arsenal fans. Mikel Merino narrowly won with 47.9% of the vote, while Riccardo Calafiori followed closely behind with 42.9%. Both players were high-profile permanent signings and are expected to strengthen Arsenal’s left side. David Raya, who already had a loan spell at Arsenal last season, received a fraction of the vote, and Raheem Sterling came in third. Merino’s injury during his first training session was seen as a setback, but fans believe that he represents what Arsenal needed the most. With his absence, Sterling brings a different dynamic to the team’s forward areas.
## What area still needs strengthening?
An overwhelming 79.9% of fans believe that Arsenal’s attack is the area that still needs strengthening. Despite scoring a record 91 league goals last season, there were moments when a more clinical striker could have made a difference. Arsenal’s ability to share goals across the front line is commendable, but fans recognize the need for a player who can consistently find the back of the net. The midfield was the second-highest area for improvement, with 17.6% of fans highlighting the work done with defensive recruitment. Arsenal’s focus on building a strong defensive foundation is apparent, but there is a need for forward planning in wide areas, especially with the age of some key players.
## Is the team stronger or weaker than before the window opened?
The majority of Arsenal fans (83.2%) believe that the team is stronger than it was at the start of the summer transfer window. The addition of new players, coupled with the departures, has given manager Mikel Arteta a stronger pool of players to choose from. While the number of players in the squad may not have changed significantly, the quality has improved. Arsenal now has players who can make an impact in a title race, and Arteta’s trust in a larger group of players has grown. This newfound depth and quality will be crucial as Arsenal aims to challenge for the Premier League title.
## How hopeful are you for the rest of the season now the window is closed?
The majority of fans (59.2%) have not changed their opinion about the season’s prospects after the close of the transfer window. Arsenal’s solid start to the season, with seven points from their opening three games, has given fans a sense of optimism. However, the reality of the task ahead, particularly in comparison to Manchester City’s strong start, has also provided a sense of perspective. One-third of fans feel more hopeful, thanks to Arsenal’s transfer business and a favorable draw in the Champions League. While there is cautious optimism, there is also an understanding that the season is long, and the race for the title will be challenging.
## Did Arsenal sell well this summer?
Arsenal’s sales this summer generated £76.7 million ($100 million), which could potentially rise to £97.5 million with add-ons. The majority of fans (93.9%) believe that Arsenal sold well this summer. The departures of academy graduates and the profit generated put the club in a healthy position in terms of profit and sustainability rules. Arsenal’s track record of selling in recent years has been sub-par, but this summer’s sales indicate an improvement. The club’s focus on selling players while also bringing in new signings demonstrates a strategic approach to maintain a healthy balance in the squad.
## Is this squad good enough to win the Premier League?
A resounding 82.7% of fans believe that Arsenal’s squad is good enough to win the Premier League this season. This assessment is based on the team’s strong performance last season, breaking and setting records, paired with the belief that the squad is in a stronger position than before. However, it is worth noting that 17.3% of fans do not share the same confidence. Their concerns likely stem from the lack of a clinical striker and the ongoing issues surrounding Arsenal’s attack. While the squad has the potential to win the title, it will ultimately come down to executing consistently and capitalizing on key moments.
In conclusion, Arsenal fans are optimistic about their team’s chances in the upcoming season. The majority are happy with the club’s summer transfer window and believe that the squad is stronger than ever. While there is still a need for improvements in the attack, the overall sentiment is positive. Arsenal’s challenge for the Premier League title will be tough, but the fans have faith in their team’s ability to compete. As the season progresses, it will be exciting to see how Arsenal’s new signings integrate into the squad and contribute to their title aspirations.