Arsenal’s Summer Revamp: Arteta Eyes Upgrades to Challenge for Premier League Title

Mikel Arteta has conceded that Arsenal require significant upgrades across their squad to contend for the Premier League title, as the club edges closer to sealing a deal for Bologna defender Riccardo Calafiori.

The Gunners are currently in the midst of their US pre-season tour, with upcoming matches against Bournemouth and Manchester United in Los Angeles, followed by a clash with Liverpool in Philadelphia.

Speaking about the need for improvement, Arteta emphasized, “We have to upgrade in everything we are doing. We need to improve in every area and that is what we are trying to do.” When questioned about Calafiori’s potential signing, the Spaniard remained tight-lipped, stating, “No, unfortunately not (an update) but obviously we know there are certain positions that we want to improve and give the squad better resources in terms of numbers where we are short, but we will try our best.”

Mikel Arteta admitted upgrades are needed if Arsenal are to win the Premier League

England internationals Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice, and Aaron Ramsdale are currently absent from the squad, having been granted extra rest following their Euro 2024 campaign.

Saka’s penalty heroics during the quarter-final victory over Switzerland drew praise from Arteta, who was relieved to see the winger bounce back from his previous penalty shootout heartache. “I was very nervous, it plays back in your mind a few years ago that moment, but he showed a lot of guts and determination and composure to take it the way he did,” Arteta said.

Bukayo Saka’s penalty fortitude during England’s Euro 2024 campaign left Arteta relieved

Arteta believes Saka’s role is constantly growing and evolving, stating, “He is a super important player for us and one of the main players for the national team.” The Arsenal manager also expressed mixed emotions about Spain’s Euro 2024 victory, as he has England players in his squad.

“I’m extremely proud of my country. It was a great moment for us to win it again with this (Spain) generation that had to really earn it in the last few years, to get that belief. At the same time, sad, because you love your players, and you want the best for them. It was a tough moment for them,” Arteta reflected.

As Arsenal look to strengthen their squad this summer, Arteta’s admission highlights the club’s ambition to challenge for the Premier League title in the upcoming season.

Stay tuned for more updates on Arsenal’s summer transfer activities and pre-season tour.