Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson has warned that Arsenal's summer transfer activity could damage their Champions League ambitions, questioning the decisions to sell Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard. While the Gunners secured major signings in other departments, Merson argues the lack of a proven, elite forward could leave Mikel Arteta's squad short in continental competition.
Merson questions attacking departures
Speaking to Sky Sports, Merson expressed concern over the profile of Arsenal's forward line following significant summer business. "I think they’ll win the Premier League, but I think they’ll fall short in the Champions League because of not having that extra person up front," Merson stated. He specifically flagged the departure of Trossard, who joined Besiktas for an initial £15.3 million: "I wouldn't get rid of Trossard, in my opinion. I think he's a good footballer and plays in the big games."
The Belgian's exit followed the high-profile departure of 25-year-old winger Martinelli, who completed a £60 million move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal on a four-year contract. To offset these outgoings, Arsenal signed Greek international winger Christos Tzolis from Club Brugge for £34 million, but Merson believes the net loss of experienced attacking depth could prove costly when juggling domestic and European fixtures.
Arteta defends squad balance after major window
Arteta has defended the club's transfer strategy, pointing to underlying squad availability and the immense depth already at his disposal. "I understand the point of view, but we have to understand the amount of minutes those players played and the ones that were injured, especially in the first six months," Arteta said. "Then the data shows something completely different... we already have some very good players."
Arsenal's summer was far from quiet, with the club spending £75 million to sign midfielder Bruno Guimaraes and £51 million on defender Ezri Konsa to reinforce their core. With Bukayo Saka, Noni Madueke, and Eberechi Eze leading the attacking options alongside Tzolis, Arsenal's hierarchy remains confident their retooled squad has sufficient quality to challenge on all fronts, despite Merson's warning about their depth in the final third.
