Arsenal’s Formidable Squad Negates January Blues

Arsene Wenger has revealed that he will not sign anyone else this January transfer window, heralding the strength of the Arsenal squad negating any need.

January 2014. Arsenal were steaming towards a first Premier League title in nearly a decade and Arsene Wenger was masterminding a wonderfully attacking side bursting with talent, headlined by a resurgent Aaron Ramsey, driving the side from central midfield.

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There were, though, issues with the squad, especially in terms of numbers. While the quality of the starting XI was high, their replacements were not. Wenger had a chance to bolster his squad in the January transfer window but wasn’t able to take it, only adding an injured Kim Kallstrom. On loan.

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The Swede proceeded to play just 128 minutes of Premier League football and Arsenal’s title challenge faltered badly. Now the Gunners are once again in the midst of a title race and once again Wenger is unwilling to invest in January. When asked about the possibility of any last-minute deals, Wenger stated:

"“Very quiet. On our front, we have a big squad and we are not in need of buying. On a general front, it has been very quiet. That shows that there are not many players available who can strengthen English teams. It also shows that all the teams in England, especially the big teams, have big squads. That’s why not a lot happened. Yes, of course. It’s not only to buy players, you have to have a need in your squad first of all. I believe that number-wise and quality-wise, we have what is required to do well.”"

Wenger is notoriously hesitant in the transfer window and it is often frustrating as an external onlooker. However, in this scenario, perhaps his reluctance is justified. Unlike the 2013/14 season, Arsenal now have a high-quality starting XI and the depth to replace players if injuries or a loss of form come.

The likes of Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Lucas Perez and Gabriel Paulista are nothing more than squad players, only playing when Wenger wishes to give the more established contributors some much-needed rest. Add to that the returns of Danny Welbeck and Theo Walcott, as well as the possible reintroduction of Granit Xhaka, Santi Cazorla and Mohamed Elneny, and it is clear to see why Wenger sees investment unnecessary.

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With a trip to Stamford Bridge on the horizon, Arsenal still have a slim chance of hauling back Chelsea over the latter stages of the season. The squad depth that the Gunners boast will be relied upon if they are to be successful, with Wenger having to manage his players carefully.