“He’s an absolute waste of money, and I’m convinced Arteta is already regretting his decision to sign him. He’s one of the worst signing in the club’s history in recent years”- Arsenal Legend Emmanuel Petit questions why Mikel Arteta signed unwanted star who has always struggled since he came

“He is a complete financial liability, and I am certain Arteta is already lamenting his choice to acquire him.” He is among the most detrimental signings in the club’s recent history.- Arsenal Icon Emmanuel Petit enquires about Mikel Arteta’s decision to acquire an undesirable player who has consistently underperformed since his arrival.

Emmanuel Petit interrogates the rationale behind Mikel Arteta’s acquisition of the £42 million player for Arsenal.

Emmanuel Petit has enquired why Mikel Arteta acquired £42 million defender Riccardo Calafiori last summer rather than enhancing Arsenal’s offensive capabilities.

The Gunners outmanoeuvred London rivals Chelsea to acquire Italy international Calafiori from Bologna.

Calafiori had only one season with Bologna but captivated Arsenal with his performances for the Serie A club and excelled for Italy during their short Euro 2024 campaign.

The 22-year-old experienced a commendable beginning to his Gunners career, assisting Arsenal in maintaining clean sheets throughout his initial two games and subsequently netting an exceptional goal in an exhilarating 2-2 draw against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium.

Calafiori has recently had injury problems, resulting in an absence of over two months from the season, and he was not present at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday during Arsenal’s FA Cup loss to Manchester United.

Petit expresses his admiration for Calafiori but questions Arsenal’s decision to prioritise the acquisition of the Italian defender over enhancing their offensive capabilities.

Arteta chose not to acquire a new striker for the club last summer, and this decision seems to be detrimental, as Arsenal’s deficiency in offensive precision was evident in Sunday’s loss to United.

Kai Havertz is Arsenal’s leading goalscorer this season, having netted seven goals. Only Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli have attained five for the north London club.

When enquired whether Arsenal requires the acquisition of a new forward in the January transfer window, Petit stated to Casino Utan Spelpaus: ‘They need to have resolved that in the previous transfer window.’

They need to have acquired a striker. I acknowledge that they enhanced the squad’s quality with a few players, although they reinforced positions where they were already well staffed.

I am an ardent admirer of Calafiori; but, upon examination, the youthful Lewis-Skelly is performing exceptionally well, while Zinchenko frequently occupies the bench, indicating that position is adequately staffed.

I comprehend that competing every three days necessitates squad depth; yet, the striker position was paramount.

I am perplexed as to why Arsenal did not pursue a legitimate striker last summer. Arsenal will be unable to acquire the elite striker they need in January.

They will be unable of accomplishing it. I am aware that they have identified several wingers and strikers as potential acquisitions. The fans are eager for a player capable of converting the numerous opportunities generated by the squad; but, this will not materialise in January.

The January market presents significant challenges for shoppers.

Arsenal was defeated by Newcastle United in the initial leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final just before their FA Cup elimination by Manchester United.

Unless a resurgence occurs at St James’ Park, Arsenal will be eliminated from both domestic cup competitions, diminishing their prospects of securing a trophy this season.

Petit is confident in their ability to contest Liverpool for the Premier League championship, as they aim to close a six-point deficit at the summit of the table. Arne Slot’s team, having suffered only two defeats all season, moreover have a game in hand.

“The competition for the Premier League is not concluded yet,” Petit remarked. ‘When you look at Liverpool, they have a six-point advantage, with a game in hand against Everton.

That does not imply they will secure a victory effortlessly at Goodison Park. That is a derby, and they have recently changed their management.

That may serve as further motivation for Everton. We all know that it’s never easy to travel away at Goodison Park.

Liverpool now possesses a six-point advantage. When I look at Liverpool’s schedule, they have been struggling in the last few weeks in terms of results. The Champions League is returning.

Upon reviewing the schedule, it is evident that they will encounter a premier team in the final six months of the Premier League. Liverpool’s greatest adversary is themselves.

They own control over their future. If they act appropriately, they will become champions.

“However, the competition in the Premier League progresses rapidly.” You never know what will happen. So, six points is not a big target to reach.

‘Even if it’s nine points, Arsenal have to play against Liverpool in the second part of the season. You never know what can happen.

‘The fact that Arsenal is not involved in the FA Cup and could be heading out of the League Cup, that may help them focus on the Premier League.’

Arsenal face a crucial clash with north London rivals Tottenham on Wednesday night as they look to reignite their campaign and pile more misery on struggling Spurs.