Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger signed a new contract today to remain in charge of the Emirates Stadium side for the next three years, and promptly talked up this summer as one to build a new team.
The Gunners claimed the FA Cup earlier this month for a first trophy in nine years, and Wenger is keen to use that Wembley glory as a platform for the future.
“It’s time for another [team to emerge],” Wenger told the official Arsenal website.
“It’s the start of a new team and I believe [the FA Cup] victory was crucial in that belief.
“We have shown signs the whole season that we can be a great side and now it’s [important] of course to have another successful season.
“We know we have to… have a successful June and July, that’s where you strengthen the team.
“It’s very important that we are good now in the next two months until the end of August, that we can give to the team some more quality and go into next season with the belief we got from [the FA Cup] win.
Asked whether Arsenal fans could expect a big summer in the transfer market, Wenger spoke boldly.
“Yes, they should expect that. What I can promise is that we work very hard on a market that is very, very congested with many people who have a lot of money.
“But we have a big advantage, players want to join us and if we find the right quality I’m sure we can strengthen the team.”
Arsenal are aware that they need to reinforce a number of key areas if they are to compete for the Premier League title and UEFA Champions League next season, with a prolific striker top of the list.
With Bacary Sagna set to leave on a free transfer when his contract expires on June 30th, the Gunners will also need a right back, and a younger, more dynamic presence at the base of midfield would be a bonus – as would a fourth centre back and a winger.
With a major transfer kitty at their disposal, such a summer certainly isn’t beyond Arsenal – and last summer’s acquisition of Mesut Ozil illustrated their increased ambition.
Next season’s preparation starts now.
COMMENTS