Micah Richards has now had his say on the two signings he thinks Arsenal need in order to go one step further in next season’s title race.
Mikel Arteta’s side have delivered a remarkable season, particularly with their results in 2024, but ultimately were still second best to Pep Guardiola’s winning machine.
Despite their disappointment, Arsenal fans will be proud, they’ve finally got a project they can believe in again.
And judging by the atmosphere at the Emirates over the season, they’ve also built an incredibly strong connection with this team.
That being said, changes will be needed in the summer in order for Arsenal to progress, and it promises to be a busy period for the club.
It feels as if there are several players on the periphery of things who could move on, players too good not to be playing, the likes of Aaron Ramsdale and potentially even Emile Smith Rowe.
And as a result of any potential business there, Arsenal will also be targeting several additions to strengthen their cause.
Micah Richards convinced Arsenal need a new defensive midfielder as well as a striker
With that in mind, Micah Richards has been discussing the additions Arsenal need on ‘The Rest Is Football’ podcast.
Richards was speaking after the 2-1 win against Everton yesterday and thought Arsenal still didn’t quite have the options enjoyed by Manchester City.
He explained: “I feel at times in certain moments in big games, Man City have an array of talent that can change games.
“Arsenal have done that at times with Trossard. But I think Jesus has not lived up to expectations.
“They need a striker and a defensive midfielder as well, to play in there with Declan Rice.
“Apart from that I think they are all good but they need to buy quality rather than quantity.
“Don’t disrupt the team too much.”
Arsenal need to find the next Joshua Kimmich this summer
In truth it’s hard to disagree with Richards’ summary, and the focus shouldn’t just be on a centre-forward anymore.
Arsenal aren’t struggling with their goal-scoring, but could still improve in their transitions.
A new number six to play alongside Rice as Richards mentioned would be an excellent addition for Arsenal, a player with a brilliant range of passing.
Joshua Kimmich has done that role so well for Bayern Munich over the years, and although there have been some rumours regarding his availability, it seems unlikely Arsenal can prize him away right now.
Therefore, perhaps Arsenal should seriously be considering either Benfica’s Joao Neves or Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi, two players who can really enhance their midfield.
The pair don’t quite have the physical profile typically enjoyed by Arsenal in the middle, but could really complement the players around them.
Arsenal need a player who can reduce the amount of games Jorginho is needed for next season, and either Neves or Zubimendi seem perfectly placed to do so.
All that being said, Arsenal might now have the perfect opportunity to sign an exciting young forward this summer.