As the 2024/25 season approaches, Arsenal is considered a strong contender for the Premier League title. Despite falling short in the final stages of the 2023/24 season, Mikel Arteta’s squad has made significant improvements to challenge Manchester City.
Arsenal has solidified its squad, notably securing goalkeeper David Raya on a permanent deal after his successful loan spell, where he won the EPL Golden Glove award. His impressive performances led to a permanent transfer for £27 million.
Another key addition is Ricardo Calafiori, acquired for an initial £33 million, potentially rising to £42 million with add-ons. Calafiori had an outstanding season with Bologna in Serie A and excelled at the Euros. He is anticipated to replace Zinchenko and Jakub Kiwior on the left side of Arsenal’s defense.
Arteta is also focusing on strengthening the midfield. With Thomas Partey seemingly past his prime and Kai Havertz appearing better suited for a forward role, several top midfielders have been linked to Arsenal. Mikel Merino is a likely candidate to join the Gunners.
Arteta is expected to continue his strategy of inverting one of the fullbacks into midfield, a role Calafiori might be designed to fill. In defense, William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes are expected to maintain their strong partnership, while Ben White will face competition from Jurrien Timber and Takehiro Tomiyasu for the right-back position. Calafiori is likely to be preferred over Zinchenko, Kiwior, and Tomiyasu on the left.
The midfield will feature untouchables Declan Rice and Martin Ødegaard, with Mikel Merino potentially joining to strengthen the left side.
In attack, no major signings are anticipated, so Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli will compete for the left-wing position, with Martinelli expected to start.
Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus, and Eddie Nketiah (if he remains) will be the attacking options, with Arteta likely rotating starters based on the opponents.
Havertz is projected to be the primary choice. Bukayo Saka is the undisputed starter at right wing, with Gabriel Jesus, Martinelli, and Reiss Nelson as potential backups if no new signing is made.
Thus, Arsenal’s starting XI for the upcoming season is shaping up with a strong defense, a reinforced midfield, and a flexible attack, ready to challenge for the Premier League title.
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