Arsenal's Goal Scoring Success Reduces Need for New Striker

Arsenal's recent transfer activities have been under scrutiny, particularly regarding the absence of striker Ivan Toney, who has been sidelined due to a ban for breaching betting rules. Despite speculation linking him to a move, Toney's future appears uncertain as he was not included in Brentford's squad over the weekend. Arsenal, meanwhile, showcased their attacking prowess last season, scoring 91 goals, just five shy of Manchester City, who boast prolific scorer Erling Haaland. Manager Mikel Arteta has developed a system that emphasizes the contributions of wingers rather than relying solely on a traditional striker. At 6ft 4ins, new signing Kai Havertz offers versatility and aerial strength, but the team's strategy leans towards utilizing wide attackers to generate goals. This approach has been evident since the early days of Arteta's tenure, where wingers are encouraged to cut inside and create scoring opportunities, allowing players like Bukayo Saka to exploit space effectively. The philosophy suggests that a successful attacking unit can thrive without a conventional striker netting 25 goals a season. Instead, Arteta's vision involves a collaborative effort where wingers can score significantly while strikers contribute modestly. This dynamic allows for fluid play, with players like Gabriel Jesus and Havertz facilitating opportunities for midfielders and wingers to shine. Ultimately, Arsenal's decision to forgo a high-priced traditional No 9 reflects a commitment to maximizing the existing talent within the squad, fostering a cohesive attacking style that prioritizes teamwork and adaptability over individual scoring prowess.