Here we are before the first game of 24/25 Premier League season. The second one in a row where I am deeply excited about the team prospects. The push for the title that we had last year made me believe there hunger in the club – in the eyes of a manager, players, sporting director and everyone actively affecting the club trajectory.
Pre-season media showed that Arteta is in a great mood, which is important since it passed over to the team and his staff. In general, the vibe is relatively calm and positive that makes me believe the team is confident that it can compete on the highest level again.
I believe the team is well setup and the only big hope I have for the season is that Arteta will finally learn how to rotate the team actively and expand the pool into 18-20 active players that are trusted and have the confidence to play when called upon. This the only aspect Arteta hasn’t absorbed from working with Pep. The previous season was lucky for us in terms on an injuries but we can’t rely on that as a rule.
I don’t think the match with Wolves is going to be easy. Fresh teams in the beginning are usually showing teeth and play more aggressively that in turn can meet a favourite by surprise. I still believe we would win, but in a close match – something along the lines of 2:1 or 3:1.
With the regards of the squad the only open question are the position of Rice and Havertz. I think Arteta will go with Havertz upfront and Rice as number 8 and I think it’s the best choice. It worked in the second half of last season and the experimentation could be left for the time when the team is ahead.
That’s it for the first one folks!