Last season, Arsenal’s squad depth faced a significant test, revealing their limitations. Despite this, the team performed remarkably well, coming close to winning the title and reaching the Champions League semi-finals.
The Gunners endured this success without several key players, as Kai Havertz, Bukayo Saka, and Gabriel experienced serious hamstring injuries that kept them off the field for substantial periods. Skipper Martin Odegaard also struggled early in the season due to an ankle injury, impacting his performance throughout the 2024/25 campaign.
Under the leadership of Andrea Berta during his first transfer window, the objective was clear: improve squad depth. Arsenal made significant signings, adding players like Noni Madueke, Eberechi Eze, and Viktor Gyokeres to bolster their attacking options, along with Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapie in defense.
These new additions have intensified the competition for places, leaving some of the club’s promising young talents struggling to get playing time. Mikel Arteta, the club’s manager, has shown a willingness to make tough decisions to enhance the squad’s overall performance.
The Impact of Increased Squad Size
A prime example of this is Aaron Ramsdale, once seen as the club’s first-choice goalkeeper but replaced by David Raya, now recognized as one of the top goalkeepers in the world. Similarly, Jurrien Timber’s rise as one of the league’s best right-backs has relegated Ben White to a more regular substitute role, while Kai Havertz’s emergence as a principal striker has pushed Gabriel Jesus to the sidelines.
Additions in midfield, such as Eze and Madueke, have limited Ethan Nwaneri’s playing time. While Madueke filled in for Saka during his absence, Eze has taken the opportunity created by Odegaard’s injury. Although Nwaneri’s time will eventually come, patience will be required for regular opportunities.
Looking Ahead for Young Talents
Gabriel Martinelli has also found his starting opportunities reduced in the current season, yet he has managed to contribute remarkably with three goals and an assist in just four starts. However, among the talented Hale End graduates, he might be feeling the pressure the most.
