Mikel Arteta has expressed disappointment over Arsenal’s lack of transfer activity in the January window, highlighting the club’s failure to reinforce their attacking options despite a clear need for reinforcements. The manager had hoped to secure signings that could cover for the injured Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus, but as the window closed, Arsenal had not added to their squad. A £40 million bid for Ollie Watkins was turned down by Aston Villa, and Arsenal also chose not to pursue a move for Bayern Munich’s Mathys Tel, who ultimately joined Tottenham on loan.
Arteta emphasized that despite the frustrations of the January window, Arsenal’s lack of activity could ultimately place them in a stronger financial position for the summer, when they are expected to renew their interest in RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko. However, he also acknowledged that further injuries could leave them struggling for depth in the final stretch of the season.
“We had a clear intention, which is always there: a window is open to explore opportunities to improve our squad with players who can make an impact. We haven’t achieved it, so we are disappointed in that sense,” said Arteta. “But we are very aware that we only want to bring in certain kinds of players, and we have to be very disciplined with that. I think we will be.”
Despite the frustration, Arteta insisted that the situation was not a gamble but a reality the club had to face. “We’re going to have to evolve there as well, and have more players from the academy and the ones that are here to be fitted longer,” he said. “That’s a job that is permanent and it keeps evolving, and we need to be on our toes. We’re going to have to be very flexible in the front line, making sure that the ones who are fit stay fit and continue contributing.”
Arsenal’s attacking depth is particularly strained due to injuries, with both Saka and Jesus sidelined. The lack of new signings means Arteta will have to rely more heavily on the existing squad, including academy players, to fill the gaps and maintain their competitiveness. Arsenal’s ability to maintain momentum will be crucial, especially as they aim to challenge for silverware in the final months of the season.
One competition where this challenge will be immediately tested is in the Carabao Cup, where Arsenal faces a tough task to overturn a 2-0 deficit in the second leg of their semi-final against Newcastle. Despite the setback in the first leg, Arteta believes his team has the strength and form to make a comeback. Arsenal’s 5-1 victory over Manchester City just days earlier provided a boost, and Arteta is confident his side can build on that momentum as they prepare for the next leg.
“The emotional state of the team after the defeat in the first leg and how we are today is very different,” Arteta said. “We come from strong performances, including a great win against Manchester City. That has given us momentum, and after that game, we have a break, so it’s the perfect time to go full throttle, ready to go for it, and approach it in the best way possible to win the final.”
Arsenal’s chances of securing a place at Wembley for the Carabao Cup final hang in the balance, but Arteta’s optimism and belief in the squad’s ability to overcome adversity are clear. With a few key players expected to step up and the focus on staying fit and flexible in attack, Arsenal will look to keep their season alive on multiple fronts despite the challenges presented by the lack of transfer movement.
