After successfully securing a place in the Champions League, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is determined to extract even greater performances from his squad in the upcoming season. The Gunners’ qualification for Europe’s elite club competition marks their return after a seven-year absence, and they aim to advance to the final, which will be held at Wembley Stadium in one year. With a competitive showing in the Premier League this season, Arsenal is optimistic about their prospects in European competition.
Mikel Arteta recognized that certain players in his squad have not received enough playing time or showcased consistent performances this season when questioned about their readiness for Champions League football. He emphasized the importance of these players stepping up and bringing renewed energy to the team. Looking ahead to the next season, Arteta will rely on five Arsenal players who are eager to take on more significant roles and contribute to the team’s success. Arsenal missed out on the EPL despite being the favorites with Bettors Malawi at one point, but there will be a lot of positives to take from Arteta’s side going forward.
Emile Smith Rowe
In July 2021, when Smith Rowe signed a new contract and received the prestigious No.10 shirt at Arsenal, it appeared that he was poised to become a beloved figure at the club. The fans wholeheartedly embraced him, often chanting his and Bukayo Saka’s names to the tune of ‘Rocking All Over the World’ by Status Quo.
Throughout the 2022-23 season, Smith Rowe demonstrated why there was so much excitement surrounding him. He showcased his abilities by scoring crucial goals and providing assists as well.
Jakub Kiwior
Having joined Arsenal from Spezia in January, the 23-year-old Polish international has made a decent impression thus far. Kiwior managed to secure a spot in the starting lineup due to William Saliba’s injury, effectively surpassing Rob Holding, who may depart the Emirates Stadium during the summer transfer window.
However, Kiwior was at fault for conceding the first goal in Arsenal’s recent 3-0 defeat against Brighton, a result that effectively dashed their already slim hopes of winning the title. To establish himself as a Premier League success, the centre-back will need to rectify such errors and minimize mistakes.
Fabio Vieira
The name Vieira holds significant meaning for Arsenal fans due to the legendary Patrick Vieira, but Fabio Vieira is still striving to make his mark in north London. The Portuguese midfielder has been limited to just three Premier League starts, as Granit Xhaka, Thomas Partey, and Jorginho have often been preferred choices in midfield.
Most of Vieira’s appearances for the Gunners have come in the Europa League. He will likely continue to feature in European competitions in the upcoming season, but the challenge of the Champions League will pose a considerable step up for the 22-year-old. There will be heightened expectations for him to demonstrate his potential and prove that he possesses the qualities required to succeed at the highest level.
Kieran Tierney
Twelve months ago, Kieran Tierney held significant importance in Mikel Arteta’s plans, with his absence being keenly felt during injury spells. However, the signing of Oleksandr Zinchenko last summer has limited the opportunities for the 25-year-old Scottish international, resulting in only six Premier League starts this season.
While Tierney has featured in 34 matches across all competitions, his lack of substantial playing time has led to speculation about a potential transfer in the upcoming summer. Losing a player of Tierney’s calibre is not something Arteta desires, and it now falls upon the Arsenal manager to convince Tierney to remain at the club. Arteta must demonstrate his vision and convince Tierney that his future lies with Arsenal.
