Arsene Wenger could have a title winning squad on his hands next term…
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If Arsenal secure their reported summer signings before the start of 2014/15, they could have a squad strong enough to field two separate sides, both arguably strong enough to fight for Champions League qualification.
Here’s how it could look, with two options in every position.
GK) Wojciech Szczesny & David Ospina
The starting keeper for Colombia is about to arrive to provide competition for the impressive Szczesny. Solid options.
DR) Mathieu Debuchy & Gino Peruzzi
France’s international right-back signing will likely be first-choice, while if Carl Jenksinson leaves, young Peruzzi could arrive from Catania as backup.
DC) Laurent Koscielny & Matija Nastasic
Frenchman Koscielny will start alongside Per Mertesacker next term, although Arsenal want to sign Manchester City youngster Nastasic as backup.
DC) Per Mertesacker & Thomas Vermalen (Vermaelen likely to be replaced)
Vermaelen is likely to leave in search of regular football, and Wenger has admitted he’s still in the market for new signings, although it’s not yet clear if Arsenal will even have a fourth choice centre-back next term.
DL) Kieran Gibbs & Nacho Monreal
Both are of a similar level, with the regular backup Monreal a full Spanish international.
DMC) Lars Bender & Mikel Arteta (& Mathieu Flamini)
The German midfielder battler could arrive to provide industry to the Arsenal side if he signs from Bayer Leverkusen, while Arteta’s passing and consistency makes him a solid rotation option. Mathiu Flamini can also play here.
MC) Aaron Ramsey & Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain
One of the best midfielders in the country, Ramsey scores, assists and wins back possession – while Oxlade-Chamberlain is one of the most talented. The youngster can also play in a wide attacking role.
AMR) Theo Walcott & Tomas Rosicky (& Serge Gnabry)
Walcott should return from injury soon, while young German wonderkid Gnabry provides an excellent option from the bench, as does ageing Czech Tomas Rosicky.
AMC) Mesut Ozil & Jack Wilshere
The World Cup winning playmaker supported by England’s long-term Steven Gerrard replacement. No problems here!
AML) Alexis Sanchez & Santi Cazorla
The £35m Chilean will add goals, creativity and flair to the Arsenal lineup, and Cazorla has already stated that he wants to stay and fight for his place.
FC) Olivier Giroud & Yaya Sanogo
The Gunners could be stronger in this position, but Giroud is underrated (he scored over 20 goals last term in all competitions), and Walcott craves a centre-forward role as well.
