Mikel Arteta has been warned of the potential consequences of a trophyless campaign (Image: Getty)
Former Arsenal star Emmanuel Petit has warned his former side that they risk having to sell several stars if they fail to win the Premier League this season.
The Gunners have been forced to settle for second place behind Manchester City for the last two seasons, and it is clear that Mikel Arteta's side are within touching distance of the title.
However, City have proven to be an unstoppable force over the last five seasons and Arsenal will need to be at their best if they are to end their rivals' incredible run of success.
But Petit believes there is more than success at stake for the Gunners, with the Frenchman telling BetVictor he believes some players could consider leaving the club if the 2024/25 campaign does not end with Arsenal lifting the Premier League trophy.
Several members of Arteta's squad have already been linked with moves away from the Emirates Stadium, with Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka both admired by City and defensive duo William Saliba and Gabriel having suitors elsewhere in Europe.
Petit said: “I see Arsenal growing little by little, but they need to add a few more players to reach City's level because their squad rotation is very good. Some of Arsenal's big players looked physically and mentally exhausted towards the end of last season. I don't think City will be as strong this season. I see Arsenal getting stronger and the gap closing.”
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Pep Guardiola will be keen to lead City to another title (Image: Getty)
“I think this is the season Arsenal are going to win another trophy under Mikel Arteta. If Arteta wants the players to trust him and follow him, then he has to win something.
“You can't convince players that you're going to achieve more and be more competitive every season if you never win anything. If you don't win a trophy, you can lose players. This season will be Arteta's most important at Arsenal so far.”
Guardiola was visibly angry with Ederson, according to Petit (Image: Getty)
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City have become something of a machine over the years but Petit senses that cracks are beginning to appear at the Etihad Stadium, particularly between the posts. He concludes: “I think Arsenal will keep the pressure on Manchester City this season.”
“City remain a benchmark but some of their key players are coming to the end of their careers, notably Kevin De Bruyne. I saw cracks appearing in the Community Shield, with Pep Guardiola visibly annoyed with Ederson at times.”
Source: https://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/1936881/Arsenal-transfer-news-Mikel-Arteta-Pep-Guardiola-Ederson