Arsenal’s summer of belief: Why this could be the season it all clicks – season preview | OneFootball

This summer has felt different at Arsenal. From humid nights in Singapore and Hong Kong to the early-morning drills at London Colney, one thing has stood out: belief. Not the wishful kind, but conviction built on the evidence of a squad and manager hitting their stride.

I have seen plenty in some three decades covering Arsenal. Double winners and Invincibles to stylish teams folding under pressure, gritty ones lacking spark, false dawns fading in days.

This pre-season, the edge has felt real. Five warm-up games were played with the intensity of competitive fixtures. The training sessions had a purpose. Conversations with new signings Viktor Gyokeres, Martin Zubimendi, Christian Nørgaard, Noni Madueke, Christhian Mosquera, Kepa, and senior figures like Martin Odegaard, William Saliba, Declan Rice and of course Mikel Arteta all carried the same message: this group is ready.

Recruitment has been targeted. Gyokeres arrives as a natural No.9, a finisher in the box who addresses Arsenal’s most obvious weakness. Arteta has already adapted training to exploit his strengths, with faster transitions, more direct play and service into that lethal corridor between the posts.

Zubimendi offers composure in midfield, freeing Rice to push forward. Norgaard adds bite and depth for tough away fixtures. Madueke brings unpredictability, Mosquera size and poise in defence. Kepa’s arrival sends a clear signal to David Raya and the goalkeeping group that there is no room for complacency.

The transfer window remains open and further movement cannot be ruled out. The strategy is clear: refine and improve in every department.

There have been tests even in pre-season . Deep, organised defences, such as Tottenham’s, have stalled Arsenal’s momentum, limiting chances, the same challenge facing Liverpool, City, Chelsea and others. Which brings us to Arteta’s rivals.

Arne Slot has the task of defending Liverpool’s title, already adding quality like Florian Wirtz and chasing Alexander Isak. Pep Guardiola’s City, despite a relative drop-off last year, remain too good to discount. Chelsea under Enzo Maresca are reloading aggressively. Manchester United appear rejuvenated under Ruben Amorim with a harmonious squad.

The difference for Arsenal is depth. They can now rotate without losing quality. Arteta has the bench to impact games across the Premier League, Champions League and domestic cups. The pressure is real. This could be the year to finish the job. Arteta has rebuilt the culture, raised tactical standards and earned universal respect. His only critique? Sometimes constraining creativity when matches tighten.

When asked about expectation, Arteta smiled and explained that if people believe Arsenal can win, he must be doing something right. But he was clear that the road to May is long and every step must be enjoyed.

The opener is a test of nerve: Manchester United away at Old Trafford, a ground rarely kind to Arsenal. A statement there could set the tone.

My verdict after nearly 22 years without a league title? If Arsenal fail to turn this belief, depth and clarity into a major trophy, it will not be for lack of design, work or conviction. If they succeed, this summer will be remembered as the moment it all clicked.