Overview
Even the penalty shootout defeat in the Champions League final could not reduce Arsenal's joy after they ended 22 years of waiting to win the Premier League title. However, Arsenal also faces concerns about the fitness of some key players after the 2026 World Cup.
Arsenal quickly reinforced the midfield with Bruno Guimaraes from Newcastle in the context of Declan Rice's constant work.
The recruitment of Christos Tzolis to replace Leandro Trossard is also positively assessed. However, after Vinicius Junior decided to extend his contract with Real Madrid, Arsenal still needs another quality striker before the transfer window closes, especially when Bukayo Saka once had physical problems.
A back injury has forced William Saliba to be sidelined for an unspecified period, which could significantly affect his ambition to defend the championship. The Gunners' defense only conceded 27 goals in the Premier League last season but will face more difficulties due to the lack of the French center-back. If Ezri Konsa is recruited from Aston Villa as expected, Arteta will have more options for the defense.
The Gunners" also need to maintain the effectiveness from set pieces, which has been one of their strengths in the past two seasons. However, the VAR being expected to closely monitor set-piece duels can create significant changes.
Images outside the pitch
Money is not a problem for Stan Kroenke. Co-owner Arsenal has become the largest private land owner in the United States this year and spent more than £1.5 billion on new players since becoming a shareholder of Arsenal in 2011 through Kroenke Sports & Entertainment.
The next goal is to upgrade the Emirates Stadium, a project that can increase the stadium capacity to more than 70,000 seats and cost up to 500 million pounds.
Relationship between owners and fans
Kroenke and his son Josh, co-chairman of Arsenal, together lifted the Premier League title at Selhurst Park in May. After years of criticism for operating the club as an investment, the Kroenke family now receives more praise thanks to their positive influence at Arsenal.
Josh Kroenke's commitment that Arsenal will continue to strengthen the force after a successful season is a worrying sign for opponents. KSE is famous for its success in many sports in the US.
Coach
The renewal of a new contract with a high salary for Arteta has not yet been confirmed, but his dedication to Arsenal is undeniable. With Pep Guardiola leaving Manchester City, Arteta has the opportunity to build a new successful era in the Premier League.
Notable rookies
Bruno Guimaraes is another strong statement about Arsenal's ambitions. The former Newcastle captain wants to win more titles after winning the hearts of fans at Tyneside. He will bring more options for Arteta's already very strong midfield.
Besides reducing the burden on Rice, the 28-year-old midfielder can take on many roles, from deep playmaker to box-to-box midfielder. Arteta still has to find a way to balance between Guimaraes, Martin Zubimendi, Myles Lewis-Skelly, Martin Odegaard and Mikel Merino, but the appearance of the Brazilian international will certainly help improve the quality of the squad.
Promising Star
Max Dowman made a strong impression right in the previous season when he was given the opportunity for the first time in the first team. The 16-year-old young star continued to show his potential in the pre-season period with a goal and an assist against Girona, and was voted the Man of the Match.
Saka and Noni Madueke need time to return after the World Cup, so Dowman has the opportunity to be given more playing time. After the only start in the Premier League against Crystal Palace in the final round, this young talent is expected to appear more often, especially in cup tournaments.
Impact of the 2026 World Cup
Rice and Saka entered the 2026 World Cup after a long season and both had to overcome physical problems. Saka even scored a hat-trick in the third-place match despite having problems with his Achilles tendon.
Both need more rest before returning to the harsh intensity of club-level football. Arsenal is unlikely to rush to use them, but the importance of Rice and Saka makes it difficult for their return to the pitch to last too long.
