For several years now, Arsenal have been on an unfortunate downward spiral; they have gone from top four security to mid-table mediocrity in the space of a disastrous decade. What used to be a top side is now nothing more than a team of Europa League hopefuls. A team that used to possess the best players in the world now struggles to find world-class talent. And it’s Arsenal’s failure in the transfer market that has contributed to their failure the most.
Why Arsenal’s Transfer Failings Have Played a Key Part in Their Downfall
A Selling Club
The fact is, Arsenal have failed to replace stars who have moved on to bigger and better things. Even when they were still considered a top side, the likes of Robin Van Persie and Samir Nasri jumped ship. The two former Gunners swapped North London for Manchester in search of trophies and succeeded in that search. Meanwhile, Arsenal- in what has become somewhat of a theme over the years- failed to cash in wisely.
In an attempt to replace one of the greatest goalscorers in Premier League history, Arsenal decided to buy Lukas Podolski and Olivier Giroud.; two players that stood no chance in filling the golden boots of Van Persie.
Van Persie and Nasri are not the only players to use Arsenal as a stepping stone to success over the years, however. All of Ashley Cole, Alexis Sanchez, Cesc Fabregas, Gael Clichy and even Thierry Henry jumped the sinking ship of Arsenal for the betterment of their careers. And, although in some cases a move didn’t work out, the fact still remains that Arsenal are a selling club who have always failed to adequately replace star players. This has played a huge part in their downfall.
Poor Transfer Business
It’s not just player sales that they are failing with, however; the scouting and transfer of the most suitable player becoming a big issue. Just last summer, the Gunners broke the bank for Nicolas Pepe. The Frenchman cost as much as £72 million last summer but has scored as little as four goals in the Premier League this season. The Gunners also brought in David Luiz last summer on a one year deal, something that they may now regret. The Brazilian’s contract is up and, with renewal unlikely, he could be about to join the list of departures at Arsenal.
Luiz, in just one year, has cost Arsenal up to £24 million due to transfer fees and a £10 million a year salary; these funds could have been spent on a younger and better centre back. The transfer of Luiz is just one of many poor decisions when it comes to both football and business by Arsenal. They have wasted millions on a 33-year-old defender for just one year of service when they are meant to be building for a better future.
It has been a sad downfall for a club that was once up there with the best in England. Mikel Arteta and the club must transition from a selling club to a buying club if they want any chance of success in the future.
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