Arsenal's quest for Premier League glory faces significant challenges, as highlighted by former player Paul Merson. The Gunners' current squad, particularly their goalkeeping and centre-forward options, appear inadequate for a title-winning campaign. At the same time, other Premier League contenders like Liverpool seem poised for success.
Arsenal's goalkeeper situation is a major concern. According to Merson, the club lacks a top-tier goalkeeper capable of leading them to the Premier League title. He emphasized the crucial role of a reliable goalkeeper in securing championships, noting that no team has triumphed in the league with merely "an alright goalkeeper."
"You can go through every team who has won the Premier League, no-one has won it with an alright goalkeeper. Liverpool have two of the best, Man City in the last four years have had the top goalkeeper in the world. That would be my problem at the moment." – Paul Merson
Another issue plaguing Arsenal is their centre-forward options. Merson believes that Arsenal's current strikers are not of the calibre needed to challenge for the title. The club's reluctance or inability to sign a top-class striker further diminishes their prospects.
Amad Diallo, a promising young talent, has caught the eye but is deemed not yet ready to start for Arsenal. While his potential is undeniable, Diallo requires more experience and development to become a key player in the squad.
In addition to these squad concerns, Unai Emery's tenure as Arsenal manager remains uncertain. The club may consider replacing him if results do not improve, adding another layer of instability to their title ambitions.
Heung-Min Son's recent form has been underwhelming, raising questions about his ability to return to his best level. Arsenal's hopes could benefit from an in-form Son, yet his performance has left doubts about his contribution.
Across London, Chelsea's situation is similarly fraught with challenges. Their transfer business has been criticized as lacking effectiveness, with a pressing need for reinforcements to remain competitive. Merson pointed out Chelsea's defensive frailties as a critical issue requiring immediate attention.
"They are going to need to bring in an experienced centre-half – a 26-year-old to 29-year-old who will sit next to Levi Colwill. I would be more than pleased if Marc Guehi signed for Chelsea. But for me, no-one will win anything without a top goalkeeper." – Paul Merson
Mateo Kovacic's poor performance against Arsenal further complicates Chelsea's situation. His future at the club is uncertain, and he must improve to secure his place in the squad.
In contrast to Arsenal and Chelsea, Liverpool's title chances appear robust. With a strong squad and consistent performances, they are well-positioned for success this season. Manchester City's Rodri stands out as an indispensable player whose absence would be deeply felt by the team.
Marcus Rashford finds himself at a pivotal moment in his career. He has the opportunity to play for a top Premier League team and demonstrate his capabilities on a grand stage.
Tottenham Hotspur faces limitations in their transfer dealings, which hinders their ability to compete for the title. Without the means to sign top-class players, their aspirations remain constrained.
Dejan Kulusevski emerges as one of the league's standout talents, capable of playing for any Premier League team. His versatility and skill make him an asset that any club would covet.
"If he starts playing well again, he will get back in the England team – 100 per cent. He's good for tournament football, he can play in multiple positions – up front, wide and he can come deeper. It makes a difference picking squads for a tournament." – Paul Merson
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