In the wake of Arsenal's recent title collapse, the question on every fan's mind is: who stays and who goes? With a summer transfer window looming, Mikel Arteta faces a delicate balancing act, weighing the need for financial stability against the desire to retain key players. This article delves into the Gunners' squad, offering a critical analysis of who should be sold and who should be kept, with a particular focus on the players who could shape Arsenal's future.
Keeping the Core
David Raya: The Spanish goalkeeper has been a revelation since joining Arsenal, and his performance against West Ham was a pivotal moment in the title race. With 18 clean sheets to his name, Raya deserves the PFA Player of the Season award and is undoubtedly world-class. Arteta's decision to sign him was vindicated, and he is a key part of Arsenal's future.
Kepa Arrizabalaga: While Kepa's Carabao Cup final blunder was costly, he is a solid backup option. If he is content to stay, Arsenal should keep him as depth behind Raya, recognizing that he needs to be a first-choice goalkeeper to truly shine.
Jurrien Timber: Consistency is the name of the game for Timber, who has been a level above White in recent times. His all-around abilities make him a fantastic player with no obvious weaknesses, and he is a key part of Arsenal's defense.
William Saliba: The Frenchman is on the cusp of winning a trophy with his boyhood club, and his performances in the Champions League semi-finals were impressive. Saliba is gradually improving and is a vital part of Arsenal's defense, with a five-year contract extension already signed.
Gabriel Magalhaes: The Brazilian is arguably Arsenal's most irreplaceable player, a demon in both boxes. His importance to the team cannot be overstated, and he is a key part of Arsenal's future.
Cristhian Mosquera: A brilliant young talent, Mosquera is going nowhere. His potential is immense, and he is a key part of Arsenal's future.
Piero Hincapie: Hincapie has come into his own, arguably being Arsenal's best player since March. His loan should be made permanent, and the transfer fee will reportedly be €52 million.
Riccardo Calafiori: Calafiori has one more season to prove he can stay fit, and if he does, Arsenal should consider selling him to Real Madrid, who were interested in him before he moved to the Premier League.
Myles Lewis-Skelly: While there are financial concerns, Lewis-Skelly is an incredible young talent with the potential to become world-class. Selling him would be a mistake from a footballing perspective, and he is a key part of Arsenal's future.
Martin Zubimendi: Zubimendi has been a rock for Arsenal, but he seems very tired after a relentless schedule. He should not be sold in the summer, as he remains a crucial player and is only in his first season in England.
Declan Rice: A no-brainer to keep, Rice is an integral part of Arsenal's midfield and a key player for the team.
Mikel Merino: A very good player, Merino is unlikely to leave unless he is homesick. At 29 years old and an integral part of the Spanish national team, he is a key part of Arsenal's future.
Selling the Right Players
Benjamin White: White's injuries and inconsistent form make him a candidate for sale. While he was reliable in the past, his recent setbacks and lack of convincing performances make it the right time for both parties to part ways.
Christian Norgaard: Norgaard should be allowed to play some football, but his limited usage makes him a candidate for sale. If he is sold, Arsenal fans will look back and wish they had him around.
Fabio Vieira: With six goals and five assists in the Bundesliga this season, Vieira is expected to join Hamburg permanently. If that doesn't happen, Arsenal should still sell the Portuguese playmaker.
Gabriel Martinelli: Martinelli wasn't sold last summer, but with his contract ending next year, this summer is the best time to cash in. With a high ceiling and a need for an elite left-sided forward, Arsenal should sign a big upgrade on the left wing.
Gabriel Jesus: Jesus is not the player he once was, and Arsenal need to cash in unless he suffers another knee injury before June. A sale is the right move, and it is a tough pill to swallow.
The Future is Bright
Arsenal's future looks bright, with a mix of experienced players and young talents. While there are difficult decisions to be made, the Gunners have a strong squad and a promising future. With a few strategic sales and some key signings, Arsenal can look forward to another successful season and beyond.
