Arsenal have already spent a total of £61million to bring in reinforcements such as Alexis Sanchez, Mathieu Debuchy, David Ospina and Calum Chambers, which means competition for places will be at an all time high at the Emirates this season.
With the upcoming season due to start, almost all positions and roles are up for grabs as everybody, especially for a place amongst a star-studded Gunners midfield. Arsene Wenger will surely need to take a few weeks into the new campaign in order to find the perfect fit for his squad.
Although better sooner than later, everyone should have time to show what their worth; so here are FIVE Arsenal players that MUST prove themselves this season...
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CLICK ON LUKAS PODOLSKI TO SEE THE FULL LIST
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Yaya Sanogo
Name: Yaya Sanogo
Age: 21
Position: Striker
Nationality: France
Price: £1.5 - £3 million
With an assist in the Community Shield victory over Manchester City, Yaya Sanogo’s value for the club looks to have sky-rocketed. Although Olivier Giroud came on and scored a superb goal, the fact that the young striker played well may mean that Arsenal might not really need a new front man.
We may be seeing more of the 21-year-old in the upcoming season, but if he fails to perform when given the chance, he could be replaced sooner rather than later. Alexis Sanchez’s arrival means that Arsene Wenger might not even need a complete striker to lead the lines.
Wojciech Szczesny
Name: Wojciech Szczesny
Age: 24
Position: Goalkeeper
Nationality: Poland
Price: £10 - £15 million
Wojciech Szczesny had nothing to worry about in regards to his place in the Arsenal first team between the sticks, but with the arrival of David Ospina, he should expect competition.
In regards to the Community Shield, the Polish keeper pulled off a few great saves, plus a clean sheet against Manchester City will be a big boost. As it stands, Szczesny looks certain to retain his role as Arsene Wenger's number one.
Olivier Giroud
Name: Olivier Giroud
Age: 27
Position: Striker
Nationality: France
Price: £17 - £20 million
Although Olivier Giroud netted an absolute screamer against Manchester City, the addition of Alexis Sanchez could see his Arsenal days very limited. As it stands, the French striker should be given the heads up to play as the main striker with the likes of Sanchez pushed into his usual winger’s role.
In addition, with the rise in form of Yaya Sanogo, Giroud may for once be facing some competition for the role as Arsene Wenger’s preferred front man.
Joel Campbell
Name: Joel Campbell
Age: 22
Position: Winger
Nationality: Costa Rica
Price: £4 – £6 million
Joel Campbell became a star after his exploits at the World Cup and could very well have retained a place in the Arsenal squad upon his return from Olympiacos. However, due to the star-studded midfield Arsene Wenger has at his disposal, earning a regular spot will be extremely difficult.
The fact that he was almost let out on loan again means that Wenger is still waiting for the Costa Rican to prove his worth to the club. He will need to perform and try to retain his place in the team sheet or risk an exit. Many European clubs are currently monitoring his situation as well.
Lukas Podolski
Name: Lukas Podolski
Age: 29
Position: Left Wing / Striker
Nationality: Germany
Price: £18 - £21 million
Lukas Podolski is a player who has struggled to hold down a first team role for Arsenal, but has been a consistent performer throughout the years. Mainly coming on as a substitute, he did manage to score 12 goals in 27 appearances last term.
He is currently being linked with a switch to Galatasaray, but many people suggest Arsene Wenger will try to keep hold of the player due to his experience. However, at 29, he isn’t getting any younger, so if he wants to make an impression, this season looks to be his final chance.