The relationship between Arsenal supporters and Stan Kroenke has continued at an all-time low for some time. Transfer activity from the club has been a big part of the fans’ criticism but there has been a change in this area during the last few years.
Arsenal spent more than any other Premier League side in the 2021 summer window, a record for the club in a single transfer period.
The intent to improve the squad has been evident, however, there remains plenty more work to do in upgrading the squad to reach the heights that so many supporters are craving.
The current January window was an opportunity for Arsenal to strengthen once more after a record-breaking summer in 2021. The needs at striker and central midfield became clear after injuries, COVID-19 cases, the Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang captaincy controversy and a general lack of strength in those positions.
A protracted chase of Fiorentina striker Dusan Vlahovic is set to end in disappointment with the player’s preference to remain in Italy and a move to Juventus likely to be nearing completion.
This has left Arsenal with less than a week to strengthen and Mikel Arteta seemingly frustrated with the difficulties the window is presenting.
However, the Spaniard has been spotted in the US with Stan Kroenke attending an NHL match with the Arsenal owner’s Colorado Avalanche side in action.
The details of the meeting between Arteta and the club owners are as yet unknown but the former club captain can take inspiration from one of his rivals considering the situation of his contract in order to convince Kroenke of the need to spend in the remaining days of the window.
Antonio Conte left Inter Milan after a league-winning season due to a lack of ambition shown by the Italian side.
Fabrizio Romano wrote in the Guardian, ‘Conte concluded his ambitions were at odds with Inter’s plans, with the club preparing to sell about €80m of players this summer because of the state of their finances. Conte wanted backing for signings and a greater chance to build on his success.’
Arteta will have just 12 months remaining on his contract at the end of the season and reports have emerged that the club intends to offer him a two-year extension.
However, like Conte, Arteta is in a position of strength with so little time left on his deal and concerns from north London that Manchester City could come knocking to replace Pep Guardiola with the Gunners’ boss.
From a fan perspective, Arteta could ask that the club back him in the remaining days of the window with big money to land the marquee striker that he desperately needs to acquire in the knowledge that the response could well inform any future decision he makes on his contract.
With plenty of supporters divided on Arteta's managerial status, many may feel Arteta has not yet done enough to prove he is worth the additional two years. However, with rumours that the club are keen to tie him down, an ultimatum could work in his favour.
That being said, Antonio Conte eventually did leave Inter and is now Tottenham’s new head coach, so the strategy does not always have a happy ending.
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