Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has expressed his frustration over the club’s inability to strengthen the squad during the winter transfer window. Despite their efforts to secure reinforcements, particularly in attack, no new players were added.
With Gabriel Jesus ruled out for the remainder of the season due to an anterior cruciate ligament injury and Bukayo Saka still recovering from a hamstring problem, expectations were high that the Gunners would bring in attacking reinforcements. However, Arteta confirmed that the club was unable to finalize any deals.
“Our objective was clear – when the window opens, we always look for opportunities to enhance the squad with players who can make a difference,” Arteta stated ahead of Arsenal’s EFL Cup semi-final second leg against Newcastle on Wednesday. “We have been impacted by injuries, and we couldn’t achieve what we wanted. That is disappointing, but at the same time, we remained committed to only pursuing players who meet our specific criteria.”
Strategic approach and financial considerations
While acknowledging the disappointment, Arteta also praised the club’s measured approach. He emphasized the importance of sticking to a well-defined recruitment strategy rather than making rushed decisions.
“The type of player we seek must genuinely improve the team,” he explained. “There are financial factors as well, and we have to ensure we operate within the framework that has brought us success so far.”
Football finance expert Kieran Maguire, speaking to BBC Sport before Arteta’s press conference, shed light on the challenges Arsenal faced in the market. He highlighted the scarcity of available talent due to the continued participation of clubs in European competitions.
“For the caliber of player Arsenal were targeting, options were limited,” Maguire noted. “With the Champions League and Europa League extending into January, clubs were reluctant to let go of key players. The market was difficult for buyers, and Arsenal likely felt there wasn’t an option that would significantly strengthen their starting lineup or regular squad.”
Adjusting to squad limitations
With no new signings, Arteta acknowledged that the team must now adapt to its current resources. He suggested that tactical adjustments may be necessary to cope with the injuries in the attacking department.
“We will need to be flexible in how we set up our front line,” he stated. “It may require trying something different to get the best out of the squad.”
While no arrivals were secured, three players exited the club. Young defenders Ayden Heaven, 17, and Josh Robinson, 20, moved to Manchester United and Wigan Athletic, respectively. Meanwhile, Brazilian forward Marquinhos was loaned to Cruzeiro for the remainder of the season.
Arsenal remains in second place in the Premier League following a dominant 5-1 victory over Manchester City. They currently trail leaders Liverpool by six points, having played one more match.
