Arsenal 2008/09 preview

Predictions of doom and gloom are somewhat premature

By James Dall   Last updated: 11th August 2008   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Arsenal 2008/09 preview
FACTBOX
Star Man: Cesc Fabregas
Arsenal's orchestrator and creative linchpin; trophies are a reality so long as Fabregas is in the side.
One to Watch: Carlos Vela
Will probably get less playing time than Samir Nasri, but could prove to be a thrilling impact player.
Manager: Arsene Wenger
Aware that this season could be the clichéd make-or-break campaign, Wenger must deliver substance as well as style.
INS: Carlos Vela (granted work permit), Aaron Ramsey (Cardiff City, £5million), Samir Nasri (Marseille, undisclosed), Amaury Bischoff (Werder Bremen, undisclosed).
OUTS: Mathieu Flamini (AC Milan, free transfer), Jens Lehmann (Stuttgart, free transfer), Alexander Hleb (Barcelona, £11.8million), Kerrea Gilbert (Leicester City, season-loan loan), Gilberto Silva (Panathinaikos, £1million).
Best signing: Samir Nasri
Sky Bet Odds: 5/1
Likely top scorer: Emmanuel Adebayor.
Possible best XI (Almunia, Sagna, Toure, Gallas, Clichy, Walcott, Fabregas, Diaby, Nasri, Van Persie, Adebayor)
Predicted finish: 4th

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Talk of a crisis at Arsenal football club beggars belief. Force-fed by the hacks of Fleet Street, the scaremongering is an overreaction that would flush even the cheeks of William Gallas in the wake of his St Andrew sit-in.

A similar sequence of events took place around this time last summer. The curtain fell on Thierry Henry's illustrious career as he completed his £16million transfer to Barcelona. Lashings of misery and despair were predicted for Emirates Stadium.

Onlookers are now witnessing a comparable déjà vu with Mathieu Flamini, Jens Lehmann, Alexander Hleb and Gilberto Silva's exits met by 2007's provocation - provocation that served only to rattle Arsene Wenger's squad into action a year ago.

Expectations had been pounded so low that Wenger's legion bit back with vitriol before frontrunner unfamiliarity saw their campaign melt away. The press escaped without eating their own tainted words.

However, on closer inspection, the current pre-season similarity appears unfounded. Henry's loss warranted a tightening in the chest, for his 226 goals in 370 appearances left a gaping hole that offered questions but, initially, few answers.

Yet apprehension is misplaced this time around. Lehmann and Gilberto's times had come, Flamini's loss was unfortunate, but he had shone for just a single season, while Hleb's crescendo lasted for three years without ever really delivering the grand finale.

Trepidation

Deep down, the majority of Gunners fans know that all this doom-mongering is premature. Fears over further arrivals, with three weeks of the transfer window remaining, are irrational. Wenger has already revealed he is in the market for another addition.

The Frenchman's record and charm in North London have so far afforded him the absence of pressure. How many other top European club managers could go three seasons without silverware and not have their positions called into question?

There are, however, whispers circulating that the time has come for deliverance. Whether it be a Carling or European Cup, the shelves of the trophy cabinet at Ashburton Grove yearn to feel the welcome weight of glory.

At his disposal, Wenger's squad has genuine talent but is parched of experience. His first-choice goalkeeper Manuel Almunia, neither spectacular nor dire, is left in the shadows when mentioned in the same breath as the likes of Edwin van der Sar or Petr Cech.

Lukasz Fabianski, 23, will provide youthful cover and ultimately play his role in the domestic cups, meaning an addition between the sticks is unlikely and unnecessary when taking into account the other areas of greater weakness.

Arsenal boast quality at both left and right-back following the astute acquisition of Bacary Sagna last July and the growing stature of Gael Clichy. Their defensive spine, however, could be cause for concern, with Gallas looking increasingly out-of-sorts.

The Frenchman's role as captain is the subject of heated debate. An eyeing-opening demonstration of petulance at Birmingham City has led to unsettling questions over whether the responsibility is too heavy a burden for the former Chelsea man to bear.

Too often in 2007/08, Kolo Toure's relationship with defensive partner Gallas resembled more Kerry Katona and the artist formerly known as Brian from Westlife than Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt, while Philippe Senderos' bus-like turning circle, Johan Djourou's rawness and Alexandre Song's uncertain positional sense spell out an easily identifiable fragility for an opponent.

Spanish linchpin

Cesc Fabregas is the jewel in the crown, and Wenger's primary task should be to identify a new and worthy partner in crime (Amaury Bischoff does not seem to fit the bill). Abou Diaby has been tipped to make the step up after injuries hampered his development, while Denilson and new boy Aaron Ramsey offer cultured complements.

Recent seasons have seen the Gunners struggle for width, although the proposition of Theo Walcott, instead of the infuriatingly unproductive Emmanuel Eboue, and summer signing Samir Nasri occupying the flanks casts a refreshing glow on Arsenal's attacking prowess.

Up front, Carlos Vela, with work permit now in hand, is an exciting talent and could be this term's surprise package, Nicklas Bendtner will have learned much over the past 12 months and Robin van Persie, like midfielder Tomas Rosicky, will have everything crossed (but not too tightly) for an injury-free season.

Emmanuel Adebayor has it all to do again with regards to winning over the supporters following his absurd public U-turn on his future in June, while clinical striker Eduardo's return later this year will hand the club a welcome boost.

All in all, if Wenger gets it right in the transfer market, and he invariably does, Arsenal should push for the Premier League title. However, failure to do so would see sceptical scribes hit the keyboard to paint yet another picture of underachievement at Emirates Stadium, and, this time round, their words may hold shards of truth.

What do you think of Arsenal's chances this season? Let us know using the form below.

Comments (36)

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Adeola Adewale ferrari (Arsenal fan) says...

We have always been written-off as underdogs on the top four list and i expect the same this season. However, i feel the need for a household name in our midfield and defence. If FAB gets a long time injury like RVP or EDUARDO did last season, we are doomed! I would love to see us sign Xabi Alonso since he is unsettled at liverpool at least he has been there done that. On paper work we are no where close to matching up the other top four but Mr Wenger has his ways of doing stuff and getting an (almost) result. I emplore all GUNNERS fans to keep their hope alive.

Posted 11:44 12th August 2008

Daniel C (Arsenal fan) says...

I love Arsenal, but please god can we get rid of that lump Senderos? When you look at the other top teams and their defenses, Senderos quite simply doesn't cut the mustard!

Posted 11:03 12th August 2008

Saheed Ayo (Chelsea fan) says...

Im a professional careerwise, education wise and football wise. Arsenal should not dream of silverware its not about fantastic football anymore, dont you know fans want to lift trophies with their team?. Arsenal should listen to Jose mourinho's comment on this website regarding tendencies to win trophies. we need experience not just exciting display, arsenal FC should not just give fans a reason to enjoy their ticket fare but to understand that they need to lift trophies. i do not intend to be bias as most fans have commented here, they allow their love for arsenal FC to cover the possible threat lurking aroudn the corner. This season 2008/2009 would not be a joke as teams like totenham hotspur/Manchester City/Liverpool/Everton among other are team to beat. Eduardo would never regain his 100% ration as he was b4 as the injury would psychologically hunt him even around goal area or when he sees an oncoming defender. Arsenal management (Chairmen and Manager(wenger) should buy 2 or 3 experienced player, 1 to control the defence line, 1 the midfield and 1 striking force. i studied statistics at higher level and i understand decision making especially at the 11th hour. Arsenal should spend now to avoid spending when it would not be needed. REMEMBER AS THE GOING GETS TOUGH, THE TOUGH ONES GET GOING, Chelsea Fc will Lead this 2008/2009 Season while Mnachester United Fc woul slog it out with Liverpool FC. also watch our for totenham. if i continue to write, ill not stop cuz it breaks my heart to make the fans look stupid for investing their trust in Arsenal and finally clapping is all they could enjoy on the pitch. ARSENAL FC AND HER FANS WAKE UP !!!!!!!

Posted 09:37 12th August 2008

Ilja Albrecht (Arsenal fan) says...

Great article. Finally, someone has the guts to write an objective piece instead of jumping on the media/FA bandwaggon to bash Arsenal wherever possible. I just hope refereeing decisions this season might be a little less biased against Arsenal, then we can look forward to a thrilling season with a lot of good football.

Posted 09:10 12th August 2008

Pratik Mehta (Arsenal fan) says...

I think Arsenal will do the double this year, might be coming up with Carling Cup and Premier League but its good to see that he is concentrating more on the Champions League too.

Posted 05:29 12th August 2008

Jason Smith (Arsenal fan) says...

This inexperience business is doing my head in... second to Henry leaving the same thing was said last season, not only where we front-runners for most of the season, we only finished 3 points behind ManU and 1 point behind Chelsea and whooped the most experienced team in the world over 2 legs (Real Madrid, what is the average age for that team) so if that's what u call inexperience then u can call us inexperienced all the way to winning the Premiership and Champions League this season capped off by our youth team winning the FA Cup and Carling Cup..... err.. well the last part would be nice.

Posted 02:37 12th August 2008

George Mcnear (Arsenal fan) says...

Strongly agree that all the calls of doom are unfounded and that going forward there is much to be excited about - especially with a healthy RVP, Edourado, and Rosicky, Vella in the mix, and Theo, NOT Eboue being the starting right mf. I am cautiously optimistic Flamini's hole can be filled by Diaby or Dennilson but would love another choice and depth there (Gilberto was always so reliable.) But the heart of defense is what concerns me. Too many games/points were lost (and mostly drawn) because we gave up early goals or conceded soon after going up. I have hopes for Djourou (sp?) but not much confidence that Senderos is a reliable stand in if Toure or Gallas are out - especially for big games (see Liverpool in CL) or for a long run. I think Gallas and Toure are very good together, but we need a third, first choice center back as cover to make sure the costly goals of last seasons five-straight-league draws do not derail the campaign again.

Posted 01:21 12th August 2008

Stuart Patrick (Arsenal fan) says...

Great article - good to read some 'grown up' writing in the press for a change. Someone give that man a pay rise ; )

Posted 23:48 11th August 2008

Gideon Nwogu (Arsenal fan) says...

I am sick and tired of hearing the press and everyone else go on and on about all the doom and gloom, crisis and so on talks about Arsenal football club. Why won't everyone let us worry about our club? Its been three years without a trophy yes, but the club has built a reputation for playing good football, developing talents and doing very well with them. i am not worried and I would rather wait a few more years to win the premiership in style than go and spend money on so called established stars so as to compete with Manu and chelsea.We are not chealsea, we are not Manu we are the Arsenal and must continue to play the Arsenal way and sooner or later it will pay dividend

Posted 21:56 11th August 2008

Charlie Wills (Arsenal fan) says...

Bottom line we need to stop this youth thing it has not worked for 3-4 seasons ... What we do need is a 2 solid defenders .. 1 Midfielder who is like Scholes, Gerrard, Lampard of the other teams and a finisher that we have longed for Adebayor scores 1 out 5-6 chances .... need to start walcott up front use his pace and his finishing abilities .. and he needs to find his feet as a forward stop playing him as a winger !!! well good luck Arsene and Arsenal looks to me like another struggle season !

Posted 20:28 11th August 2008

Neil Barnes (Arsenal fan) says...

I've got a sneaky feeling this could be our year, Liverpool have spent a fortune, Man Utd I'm sure are just about to spend big on another striker, Chelsea...well they've spent enough over the past few years to last them a life time. I'd like to see Kolo's brother in the squad and maybe one more reliable defender but Arsene knows!! If the Emirates can generate a bit more noise this year and get a bit of belief into the team then we can really do it. Come on you Gunners!!!!!

Posted 19:50 11th August 2008

Ord Marshall (Arsenal fan) says...

Last year the Gunners seem well on their way to winning the EPL until Eduardo's injury and Gallas' subsequent meltdown. As for the Champion League, Liverpool got by us because of poor decisions by referees. I know that we've lost two starters, plus an experience team player in Gilberto as well as Lehmann, but they are replacable. Many seem to forget that AW's reputation is on the line. The fact that he has shown so much confidence in his players says a lot about thier character and maturity. And as he said, they may be young, but not inexperience. I think this season is going be very special for the Gunners because of what they have to prove. Gallas received so much, deserved, criticism, immidately comes to mind, Adebayor, who was already a hard worker, has to earn back the fans trust and respect. Van Persie, Roseciky and eduardo missed so much time and Almunia as to show that he's a #1 goalie, plus the younger players needing to prove that they belong. I could go through the whole team, but the reality is, AW as way of getting his young players to elevate their game. I would be stunned if they don't win something!

Posted 19:13 11th August 2008

Kim Langeland (Arsenal fan) says...

I think we need two more signings, one midfielder y toure or a fit scott parker??. Give senderos to tottenham and eboue to chelski. we do need a center back who can win 90% of the goal kicks. Give Gallas one more chance. I think he was (is) the best defender in the world. Who else in the world could play so well at center back or at left or right back as he?? Remember how good and importen he was against chelsea and united at the Emirates!! He is big game player!

Posted 18:55 11th August 2008

Femi Oyedola (Arsenal fan) says...

This is such an objective article...no messing about with profanities. i fear for us this season based solely on the fatigue factor as the squad is so light and thin. Fabregas and Adebayor will be key. i know Ade can be wasteful and infuriatingly so, but he scores in the end like d old Andy Cole. he probably needs four or five chances to register a goal or two and this Arsenal team has and will keep opening up defences for him. hope RVP will be fit and if he is, he will surely get 20 goals at least in all competitions. Rosicky, Bendtner, Vela, Walcott and Eduardo(when he is back) will contribute a great number of goals. someway, somehow, one of Diaby or denilsson should come good alongside fabregas and for all d world, there's still d january window if they fail to produce. Nasri will be ok but he needs time. Almunia will not be spectular nor dire still as the article rightly points out. Gallas will make mistakes and we wont have d meanest defence in the top four but overall, we should outscore a lot of strong opposition and we might be like d Real Madrid team...always conceding but almost always outscoring weaker or less inventive/creative teams. we might struggle against the likes of United and Chelsea (not liverpool, with no disrespect) and other strong Champions' league opponents but we'll come good against a couple of them and hopefully that will be at the vital times in the league season. in all, it looks promising but we will need a large dose of d rub of the green injuries wise and with those annoying refeereeing decisions too. good luck to all Gunners...Arsene knows!

Posted 14:46 11th August 2008

Henry Seal (Arsenal fan) says...

Completely agree, only bit of sense iv heard talked about arsenal all summer. we are not in crisis, out 1st choice 11 is probable the best FOOTBALL team in the world. i would like to see one well known player who shoots on site come into the team, no-one instantly springs to mind for me but im sure arsene has a wider knowledge!

Posted 14:46 11th August 2008

Mohamed Rashwan (Arsenal fan) says...

Well, i guess the doomsayers should aim their efforts at another football club ......why are they bothering themselves with Arsenal's so called " plight".... we guuners didn't win anything for the past 3 years and we've got no problems with that....we play an attractive brand of football, we have a nice modern stadium, we have a solid financial structure that is based on calculated risks not on champions league revenue from the 2011/2012 season....and most of the gunners are not complaining... Why the press is portraying the club as a side in constant turmoil is beyond my understanding.... by the way this is the first sensible article that i read about Arsenal since the end of last season....

Posted 14:29 11th August 2008

Adan Mohamed (Arsenal fan) says...

Like all fans I would love to see a star addition to the team as I believe that we are a little light in terms of numbers, compared to the likes of Man Utd and Chelsea but, we still have a 1st XI that can rival anyone. Even though they are young they have talent in abundance and that is what is needed to succeed at this level, the experience of losing out on the premier league last season, after coming so close should hold them in good stead, not to mention that heart breaker in Anfield in the champions league. I think little Theo will rip defences to shreds with his pace and will be a lot more provide much more in terms of productivity than Eboue. Nasri will be interesting to see alongside a fit Rosicky, and Fabregas. Vela WILL make an Impact, though Bentner still has to prove that he can be a force to challenge Adebayor and Van Persie for a starting position. Gunners for Premiership and Champions League.......(Hopefully!!)

Posted 13:38 11th August 2008

Simon Goodman (Arsenal fan) says...

Can i just respond to all those doubters regarding defence. We have Johan Djourou. I expect him to play a big part this season. I have watched him twice in pre-season and he has been fantastic. so im assured we are fine in defence. Midfield just excites me! we have so many options. Rosicky, Fabregas, Diaby, Denilson, Walcott, Nasri, Ramsey, possibly Vela on the left. up front we have bendtner, adebayor and VAN PERSIE. when eduardo is back who can stop is? i dare you to challenge me!!!!!

Posted 13:37 11th August 2008

Dylan Rubens (Arsenal fan) says...

Class article! first bit of sensible writing I've read about my team for ages. So much negativity in the media towards The Arsenal, when at the end of the day... Wenger Knows!

Posted 13:23 11th August 2008

Jude Davis (Arsenal fan) says...

I think the days of a team running away with a league title are over, so between the top four like last year there won't be a huge gap in points. Arsenal will be there challenging for the title, as they were last year. We have to remember that we lost players at crucial times last year, Eduardo, Rosicky and RVP were all missing for huge parts of the season....these are big players, and any club would miss them in their starting 11. I am looking forward to the new season big time, I am expecting another top season from Cesc, coupled with the real emergence of Walcott...Ade looks to have hit pre season form bang on time and will again break the 20 league goal barrier.... GAME ONE!

Posted 13:07 11th August 2008
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