Arsenal haven’t gone about business in the transfer market as the Premier League champions they are and that needs to change fast.
Winning the Premier League is supposed to be the beginning of something even bigger. Champions don’t usually stand still; they evolve.
They identify the weaknesses that nearly cost them, strengthen their squad and make it even harder for rivals to catch them. That is why Arsenal’s approach to this summer’s transfer window has raised eyebrows.
After finally ending their long wait for the Premier League title, many expected the Gunners to attack the market with the confidence of champions. Instead, they have been relatively quiet while several of their biggest rivals have aggressively strengthened.
From the outside looking in, Arsenal haven’t approached this window like a club determined to defend their crown. In modern football, standing still often means falling behind, especially when the chasing pack is spending heavily.
Arsenal Still Need More Firepower
One of Arsenal’s biggest issues last season wasn’t creating chances, it was consistently converting them. There were too many matches where Mikel Arteta’s side dominated possession and territory but lacked the cutting edge to turn control into comfortable victories.
The signing of Christos Tzolis is undoubtedly an exciting one. He adds creativity, directness and another attacking option capable of unlocking defenses. But one player alone is unlikely to solve Arsenal’s attacking problems.
Welcome to The Arsenal, Christos Tzolis 🙌
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) July 23, 2026
The Gunners still look short of another elite goalscorer or versatile attacker who can change games when their system isn’t functioning at its best. There were periods last season where Arsenal’s attack became predictable, relying heavily on set pieces rather than individual brilliance. Against well-organized opponents, they occasionally looked flat in the final third.
Chelsea and Tottenham Have Been More Aggressive
Perhaps the most surprising aspect of Arsenal’s transfer window is how it compares to their London rivals.
Chelsea finished 10th last season and failed to qualify for European competition, yet they have moved decisively in the market. Under new manager Xabi Alonso, the Blues have already secured several high-profile signings and have won transfer battles for players Arsenal were also linked with.
Morgan Rogers will wear the No.17 shirt for the Blues! 🔵
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) July 22, 2026
On paper, Arsenal should have held the advantage. They are the defending Premier League champions, offer Champions League football and have a settled project under Arteta. Yet Chelsea appear to have shown greater urgency and, in several cases, greater pulling power.
Then there is Tottenham.
After finishing a disastrous 17th and narrowly avoiding relegation, Spurs have completely reshaped their squad under Roberto De Zerbi. Whether every signing succeeds remains to be seen, but their intent is obvious. They have acknowledged their shortcomings and acted accordingly.
We are delighted to announce the signing of Sandro Tonali, subject to work permit ✍️
🔗 https://t.co/WBcHW8UZYo pic.twitter.com/dGurwXvD9Z
— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) July 6, 2026
Arsenal, by comparison, have looked cautious.
Arsenal Cannot Afford Complacency
Football moves quickly.
Manchester City rarely allow a title-winning squad to stagnate. Liverpool strengthened even after winning the Premier League and Champions League. The best teams constantly refresh their squads because they understand that success creates new expectations.
The danger for Arsenal isn’t that their current squad suddenly becomes poor. It is that their rivals improve faster.
Every Premier League club now studies Arsenal more closely than ever before. Opponents know how Arteta’s team wants to play. Tactical familiarity makes recruitment even more important because fresh profiles introduce new solutions.
If Arsenal enter the new season relying almost entirely on the same attacking options, opponents will believe they know exactly how to stop them.
A Defining Few Weeks Ahead
There is still plenty of time left in the transfer window, and Arsenal could yet make the statement signings many supporters are waiting for. If they do, much of the current concern will quickly disappear.
But as things stand, Arsenal have not conducted themselves like defending Premier League champions.
From a neutral perspective, that is worrying.
🚨BREAKING: Arsenal have reached an agreement of £77million with Newcastle United for the transfer of Bruno Guimaraes.
Some details still need to be sorted regarding bonuses but a deal has now been agreed.
The Brazilian has agreed a five-year contract with the Gunners.… pic.twitter.com/lXvviDcpBn
— now.arsenal (@now_arsenaI) July 31, 2026
The Premier League has never been more competitive. Chelsea are rebuilding aggressively. Tottenham are investing heavily after a disastrous campaign. Manchester City remain relentless, while Liverpool continue to strengthen.
Winning the title was the hardest part. Keeping it could prove even harder.
If Arsenal truly want this to be the start of a dynasty rather than a one-off triumph, the coming weeks may require not just new signings, but a shift in philosophy.
