Mikel Arteta explains why Arsenal haven't strengthened squad in key area ahead of Manchester United clash

Mikel Arteta has claimed that there are some financial constraints and squad deficiencies among others that have hindered Arsenal from strengthening their squad. This comes after there have been several analytical opinions on why the Gunners should bolster their squad, particularly in attack.

Despite the injury to Bukayo Saka, the Gunners are yet to sign any attacker in the ongoing winter transfer window.

In a press conference ahead of their FA Cup clash against Manchester United, Arteta was quizzed on why the Gunners are yet to bolster the attack. He said on Hayters TV (via TBR Football):

"In the front positions, comparing to what other clubs have done and the expenditure we’ve had there, we are far from them over the years for different reasons. First of all, we have very, very good players. And because we had many necessities in the squad to achieve in that period.

He added:

"We have certain limitations and we have a lot of gaps and a lot of things to cover to become the team that we want. And then, the availability of the players – can you afford them even if you want them? Sometimes it’s not possible."

Arsenal have been linked with several strikers in recent months. However, Arteta has explained why it is difficult for the club to make a move in the transfer market. Citing the difficulties in securing the signing of key targets.

Daily Mail had earlier reported that the Gunners will not be able to finance the transfer valuation of Newcastle's Alexander Isak despite recent links. Thus, partially justifying Arteta's claims.

How has Mikel Arteta's Arsenal performed in the Premier League this season?

Brighton & Hove Albion FC v Arsenal FC - Premier League - Source: Getty

While many expected the Gunners to leverage Manchester City's inconsistency in the Premier League this season, they have struggled to do that.

Arsenal are second in the 2024-25 Premier League standings, having accumulated 40 points from 20 games. They have won 11, drawn seven, and lost two league games.

Arteta's men are six points behind league leaders Arne Slot's Liverpool who have one game in hand. The Gunners have scored 39 goals in attack and have conceded 18 goals in defense leading to a goal difference of 21.

Kai Havertz is the Gunners’ top scorer in the Premier League this season, having scored seven goals in 17 games. The Gunners will take on long-term rivals Manchester United in the FA Cup on Sunday, January 12.

They will return to Premier League action against north London rivals Tottenham Hotspur on Wednesday, January 15.