Arsenal are just one player short of being able to compete for European success, according to shareholder Alisher Usmanov. Manager Arsene Wenger has made just one signing this summer, goalkeeper Petr Cech from Chelsea, but he is believed to be trying to make a move for Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema.
"Except for one position, I think Arsenal are ready to successfully fight for European cups," Usmanov told
CNN. The Gunners started the season with a 1-0 victory over Premier League champions Chelsea in the Community Shield on Sunday. The Blues are still the favourites to win the title but Arsenal are believed to be capable of a challenge this season.
Arsenal have not won the Premier League since 2004 and even went almost ten years without a trophy before finally claiming the FA Cup in 2014. Usmanov, who is the second largest shareholder at the club, believes it was the move to the Emirates Stadium in 2006 that made it impossible for the team to challenge for major honours. "Arsene had a very, very difficult position when club shareholders didn't want to put their money into constructing the new stadium," added Usmanov. "Because of this Wenger lost five years, maybe the best of his career, without a trophy. In reality, 10 years. If I had the right, I would keep Arsene until he wants because until he cannot perform his activity as a manager, it is a gift for any club to have a coach like Arsene Wenger."
Arsenal are 26.00 at Bet365 to win the Champions League next season.
sharpe
8 years ago
If I was an Arsenal fan I would be more desperate for domestic success rather than European. Nothing wrong to win the Champions league but I think they have to win the Premier League first. Something changes in the Venger's thinking in the last decade and he's like in disbelieve that his team could succeed against the other...
If I was an Arsenal fan I would be more desperate for domestic success rather than European. Nothing wrong to win the Champions league but I think they have to win the Premier League first. Something changes in the Venger's thinking in the last decade and he's like in disbelieve that his team could succeed against the other big teams in England and probably in Europe. I don't know if Arsenal are a player short or a manager short from any kind of success like in England as in Europe.
Show morePlease enter your comment.
Your comment is added.
Alexa Alexa 8 years ago
I think you are right Savini7.Arsenal should think about defence.They should strengthen all the areas ,not just attack.Wenger has very talented players,but the Gunners were to often hit by injuries in last few seasons.With 3 good signings,they would be able to fight for the title in Premier League.
Please enter your comment.
Your comment is added.
Savini7 8 years ago
I sincerely hope that Karim Benzema will join Arsenal, because whit him they will have a great attack. Benzema Wallcot Sancez and behind them Ozil Cazorla Chamberlain. But I think that they need one more good defender. Maybe Vidic, Serhio Ramos or David Luis.Its should be enough to win Premier League.
Please enter your comment.
Your comment is added.