Arsenal Criticized for Misguided Summer Transfer Spending Amid Striker Crisis

Kisah Berita 1001 - Arsenal has come under fire for its transfer activities in the summer of 2024, with critics suggesting the club wasted money and failed to address its pressing need for a new striker.

During the summer transfer window, Arsenal signed two players: Riccardo Calafiori and Mikel Merino. Calafiori, a left-back from Bologna, was acquired for €45 million, while Merino, a midfielder from Real Sociedad, cost the club €32 million.

In addition, Arsenal made goalkeeper David Raya's move from Brentford permanent, paying €31.9 million. In total, the club spent €108.9 million in the summer.

However, Calafiori, who has played just 16 matches for the Gunners, has struggled with injuries. He sustained a knee injury in October and is currently dealing with muscle issues.

Merino, on the other hand, joined the club while recovering from a shoulder injury. The 28-year-old midfielder returned to action in early October and has played 21 matches for Arsenal, half of them as a substitute.

Arsenal's summer transfer business has faced criticism, particularly from former midfielder Emmanuel Petit, who expressed confusion over the club's failure to bring in a new striker.

The team is currently facing a striker crisis due to Gabriel Jesus's ACL injury, leaving manager Mikel Arteta with only Kai Havertz as a makeshift forward, whose performances have been inconsistent.

"I understand that when you're playing every three days and competing in multiple competitions, you need squad depth. But the striker position should be a priority," Petit told the Daily Star.

"I don't understand why Arsenal didn't buy the right striker last summer. They won't be able to bring in the quality forward they want in January. It won't happen."

"I know they have some wingers and attackers on their shopping list, but I think fans are desperate to see someone who can convert the chances the team creates, but that won’t happen in January. The January market is a very tough one to navigate," he added.