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Arsenal Manager Mikel Arteta Discusses January Transfer Plans
Arsenal Focused on Working with Existing Squad Amid Injury Setbacks
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has revealed that while the club is “very alert” to the January transfer market, they are not actively pursuing new signings at this stage. Arteta emphasized that the club’s priority for the month is to continue working with the current squad, despite ongoing injury issues.
Injury Setbacks Impacting Arsenal’s Title Hopes
Arsenal’s title challenge has been significantly affected by persistent injury problems this season. Although the situation appeared to improve after the November international break, new setbacks, including injuries to key players like Bukayo Saka and Ethan Nwaneri, have once again caused trouble for the squad. Additionally, a seasonal illness has been affecting several players, including Kai Havertz and Martin Ødegaard.
Arteta’s Focus Remains on Current Squad
Despite the challenges, Arteta stressed that Arsenal’s focus remains on working with the players they have. When asked about the possibility of new signings, Arteta replied, “That hasn’t changed—the focus is our players.” He added that while Arsenal is monitoring the market, the primary goal is to continue building with the existing squad and prepare for upcoming fixtures like the Carabao Cup match against Newcastle.
“It’s not a yes [to new players], but it’s not a no!” Arteta stated, leaving the door open for potential signings if the right opportunity arises.
Arsenal’s Struggles with Depth and Goalscoring
Arsenal has faced challenges in defensive depth due to injuries to Ben White and Takehiro Tomiyasu, leaving Jurrien Timber as the only available right-back. This has led to Thomas Partey occasionally filling in at right-back. On the opposite side, summer signing Riccardo Calafiori has also struggled with injuries.
The Gunners continue to search for a consistent goalscorer. While Kai Havertz has provided respectable numbers, he has not been prolific, and Gabriel Jesus has struggled to maintain consistent form. Eintracht Frankfurt forward Omar Marmoush has been linked with a move to the club, though Arsenal would face stiff competition from Premier League rivals Manchester City and Liverpool if they decide to formalize their interest.
