ART: GUNS NEED BIG OVERHAUL
MIKEL ARTETA can see the growing gulf between Arsenal and the top of English football is nearing the point of no return. Which is why he insists this summer’s transfer window is absolutely key if the crisis-torn Gunners are to stand any chance of reeling in Manchester City and Co.
Arteta did not mince his words as he called on the board to spend big in order to ensure the elite do not become completely out of his side’s reach.
After crashing out of the Europa League to Unai Emery’s Villarreal on Thursday, Arteta issued a clear message regarding the need for another major overhaul in personnel.
The under-fire Emirates boss said: “Time is catching up right now. It’s a trend, it’s years now that this has been happening.
“If the distance and the margins with the rest becomes too big, then it’s almost impossible to do it.
“The squad needs changing. There were already a lot of changes in December – something that has not been done in years but which tells us where we were.
“Things are going to have to change and the owners are going to back it up.”
Arteta, who remains defiant that he is the right person to lead the fallen giants out of their slump, added: “I think we are still on time.
“We’ve put some very strong pillars and foundations down in the last few months to do what we have to do.
“We are in the right place. Now we have to do it.”
And ahead of hostingwest Brom this evening, the Spaniard added: “We need to see a strong reaction again.
“I see how much the players care.”