Arsenal’s flame may have petered out somewhat in recent years, but Wenger’s boys-turned-men came awfully close this year to winning their first league title since 2004. They may not possess the same tenacity as Manchester United but they are as good as anyone in the league on their day, as we seen last Saturday with the victory over United that could help Chelsea retain their title.
That victory may help ease the sting of falling at the final hurdle, but the pressure on Arsene Wenger to deliver is still there. The stubborn Frenchman has stuck to his guns with this team, insisting that they will come good. However, the lack of experience at crucial times in the season has showed time and time again.
Sir Alex Ferguson on the other hand has had to rely heavily on Ryan Giggs and to a certain extent Paul Scholes, but it is these players that will give his side the edge when it comes to those all-important games. When United’s veterans do retire, there will be a host of experienced players in their place with the likes of Rooney, Evra and Vidic boasting a wealth of title winning experience.
Anyone who has watched the Gunners this year will tell you that they are in dire need of an experienced centre back and goal-keeper. Arsenal haven’t really had a top goalkeeper since David Seaman, and until they do it is unlikely that they will become a championship winning side. Manchester United struggled for years to fill Peter Schmeichel’s shoes, and will be in the same position if Van Der Sar decides to go ahead with his retirement.
One thing Arsenal does have over their North-West rivals is a young, talented starlet in the name of Jack Wilshire. When Cesc Fabregas does eventually head back to Spain Arsenal need not worry as they have already found the perfect replacement. If Cesc decides to stay then he and Wilshire could form a formidable partnership that could dominate England for years to come.
United’s future doesn’t look quite so rosy. With key players on the verge of retirement, the large amount of debt that the club is saddled with, the rise in fortunes of United’s bitter rivals Man City and the looming retirement of Sir Alex Ferguson, United fans must be understandably worried that their dominance may well be coming to an end.
If Arsene Wenger swallows his pride and invests in a couple of experienced players then Arsenal may just have what it takes to become the new force in English football , just don’t tell that to Manchester City.
