Mikel Arteta, the manager of Arsenal, said on Friday that the club must make wise choices during the close-season transfer window in order to challenge for the Premier League once more the following season.
Although Manchester City won the title with three games remaining following an unbelievable run, Arsenal fell off the top of the standings in the final two months of the season.
Although Arteta possessed an effective starting lineup, long-term injuries to important players, such William Saliba, highlighted their lack of squad depth.
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“We have to nail everything we do (in the transfer market). Seek for excellence in everything we touch and participate,” Arteta told reporters ahead of Sunday’s home game against Wolverhampton Wanderers.
“We are looking for people who can have a big impact at the club.
“Competition will be even harder next season. This season was the hardest in my 22 years.
“In order to do that, we have a promising plan to reflect, take a step back, make sure this is the right one, go again with more determination and hunger in our tummies to go again.”
Bukayo Saka, a forward for Arsenal who led the north London side with 14 goals and 11 assists in all competitions this season, extended his contract on Tuesday till 2027.
Saka was deemed by Arteta to be a “crucial player” for them. “He represents our club in the best possible way,” he said.
“He is part of the plan. At the moment, we are in a strong position to be able to do that.
“We decided he was obviously one of the key players at the club and wanted to secure his future.
“We are able to do that. He’s extremely happy, and so are we.”
Arteta added that Arsenal are looking to end the season in style against Wolves, saying: “(We must) provide a great performance and victory in front of our people to show our gratitude.
“We have received a lot of incredible energy, which they’ve given us throughout the season. Now is the time to start to build for next season. We have to wrap up (this season) in the best possible way. It has been some journey, full of emotions.”