Injuries have crippled a squad which Arteta has freely described as “thin”, leaving Arsenal without a recognised centre-forward for most of the campaign’s conclusion. Arteta acknowledged the “need” for more recruits in what he billed as “a very exciting summer”.

Arteta favoured a slender squad setup, placing emphasis on cohesion and unity within the dressing room. However, this strategy has backfired as the Gunners struggled with injuries and bans, which has seen them falter behind league champions Liverpool.