Ray Parlour has insisted that Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger must make “big signings” this summer if the club are to remain competitive next season.
The Gunners have seen their title charge lose pace in recent months, as they now face a battle to hold on to a top-four finish and the Champions League qualification that comes with it.
With many believing that this was their best chance of ending their wait for a Premier League title this year, it will come as a massive disappointment for all concerned at the Emirates to miss out.
However, Parlour believes that it could get worse next season given the added competitiveness, and the former Arsenal midfielder makes a very valid point.
“They will be disappointed, they had a really good chance of winning the league. They have come up short again,” Parlour told Sky Sports News HQ.
“He needs to make some big signings, there is no doubt about that. In the summer transfer window they need to go out and get these players to put them on to the next level like City and clubs like that because it is going to be such a competitive league next year.”
The former England international added that pre-season would also be critical for the Gunners, as it will set them up for a strong start to the campaign next year which will be pivotal in ensuring that confidence grows within the group.
However, it is difficult to see how that will ultimately matter if the club don’t strengthen with a few new faces in the summer given the changes taking place around them.
From Pep Guardiola and Antonio Conte arriving at Manchester City and Chelsea respectively, to Jurgen Klopp’s continued work at Liverpool. All three clubs will be active in the transfer market and will be much improved in the 2016/17 campaign.
Not to mention Tottenham who could be building their own dynasty if they can claim the title this season, as well as Manchester United and even Leicester City who could potentially be looking to defend their crown.
While Arsenal have missed out on a big chance this year, it really does threaten to get worse next year. In turn, Wenger will be under pressure to bolster his squad this summer which will ensure that they don’t slip behind their rivals.