Premier League: What to expect from Arsenal in 2019-20?
Arsenal will want to banish the disappointments of the last two seasons, when they take to the field this term. Under Unai Emery's first season in charge during 2018-19, the Gunners finished fifth in the Premier League. They were also battered by Chelsea in the Europa League final. Arsenal have serious work ahead of them. Here we decode what to expect from Arsenal.
Auba and Lacazette hold the key for Gunners
Arsenal will once again be dependent on star forwards Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Alexandre Lacazette. The two forwards developed a fine tuning as the 2018-19 season progressed. Auba was the joint-top goal-scorer in the Premier League (22). Lacazette netted 13 goals as well. This season, one expects the two to fire for Arsenal and govern key games. Their impact will be massive.
Creativity is something Arsenal will need to produce
Arsenal need their key players running in the 2019-20 campaign. Henrikh Mkhitaryan, who was sidelined during crucial parts last term, will look to be injury-free and provide that space for the strikers to work upon. Mesut Ozil has been a shadow of himself and this season provides another chance for him to show that he is one of the leaders on the pitch.
Arsenal have serious work to do in defense
Arsenal's defensive line-up looks well short. Their captain Laurent Koscielny wants to leave and at least 2-3 solid defenders are needed to bring in some stability. Central defense is something that will challenge Arsenal, given it's a long season and that they also have Europa League duties. Last season, Arsenal leaked in 51 goals in the EPL. They cannot afford a repeat.
How has the summer transfer window been for Arsenal?
Arsenal have endured a frustrating summer transfer window so far. They are yet to sign someone and time is running out. Real Madrid's Dani Ceballos is being eyed in a loan deal. He could bring that zeal in mid-field. An offer for forward Wilfried Zaha was rejected by Crystal Palace. Arsenal also saw a move for Celtic's Tierney get brushed off.
Arsenal should challenge for top four: Our take
Arsenal have a mountain to climb in terms of winning the EPL title. Realistically, they should focus on challenging the likes of Manchester United, Chelsea and Tottenham in order to finish in the top four. Europa League and the other Cup competitions are something Emery should also lay his focus on. Finally, Arsenal have to get in some signings ahead of a massive season.
