Arsenal enters the 2025-26 Premier League season with renewed hope and ambition, seeking to finally end their long wait for a title. After finishing as runners-up for the third consecutive year in the 2024-25 season, the Gunners have been active in the summer transfer window, aiming to strengthen key areas of the squad. Mikel Arteta is entering a pivotal season, and the additions of a center-forward, midfield reinforcements, and defensive solidity could be the key to a successful campaign.

2024-25 Season Review

Arsenal's 2024-25 season was a story of coming close but ultimately falling short. Despite a strong campaign, they finished second to Liverpool in the Premier League, marking the third consecutive season they've been runners-up. The failure to secure an out-and-out center-forward proved costly, as Liverpool outscored them by 17 goals. In the Champions League, Arsenal made progress by reaching the semi-finals, defeating Real Madrid in the quarter-finals before losing to Paris Saint-Germain. Injuries to key players, including Bukayo Saka, hampered their progress at crucial moments.

Key Transfers

Arsenal have been busy in the summer transfer window, with several notable arrivals and departures.

Incomings:

• Viktor Gyokeres: Signed from Sporting Lisbon for £55.5m, Gyokeres is expected to lead the attack and provide the goal-scoring threat that was missing last season.
• Noni Madueke: Arrived from Chelsea for £48.5m, adding another dimension to the attack.
• Martin Zubimendi: Joined from Real Sociedad for £55.8m, bolstering the midfield.
• Cristhian Mosquera: Signed from Valencia for £13.1m, adding depth to the defense.
• Christian Norgaard: Arrived from Brentford for £10m, providing midfield cover and experience.
• Kepa Arrizabalaga: Signed from Chelsea for £5m, adding competition in the goalkeeping department.

Outgoings:

• Kieran Tierney: Returned to Celtic on a free transfer after his contract expired.
• Jorginho: Left for Flamengo on a free transfer.
• Thomas Partey: Released at the end of his contract.
• Nuno Tavares: Sold to Lazio for £4.2m.
• Marquinhos: Sold to Cruzeiro for an undisclosed fee.
• Takehiro Tomiyasu: Released on a free transfer.

Predicted Line-up

Based on the current squad and recent signings, a predicted Arsenal line-up for the 2025-26 season could be:

• Goalkeeper: David Raya
• Defenders: Timber, Saliba, Gabriel,
• Midfielders: Declan Rice, Martin Zubimendi
• Forwards: Saka, Gyokeres, Madueke

Fixture Analysis

Arsenal's 2025-26 Premier League campaign begins with a challenging set of fixtures. They start away at Manchester United, host newly promoted Leeds United, and then travel to Anfield to face Liverpool. According to Statr Draft, Arsenal's opening run is the worst in the league, and they face three big six opponents in the first five games. The first eight matches will be a test of Arsenal's title credentials, and a strong start is crucial.

Key Questions

• Can Viktor Gyokeres provide the consistent goal-scoring threat Arsenal needs?
• How quickly will the new signings integrate into the team?
• Can Arsenal avoid significant injuries to key players?
• Will Martin Odegaard be able to recapture the form of his 2023-24 campaign?

Overall

Arsenal has made significant moves in the transfer market to address the shortcomings of last season. The additions of Gyokeres, Madueke, and Zubimendi, among others, have strengthened the squad. However, the challenging early fixtures will test their resolve. If Arsenal can navigate this difficult start and maintain consistency throughout the season, they will be well-placed to challenge for the Premier League title.