Emmanuel Petit has called on Arsenal to make three crucial signings in the January transfer window to rejuvenate their season, expressing his disappointment with Gabriel Martinelli’s recent performances.
Arsenal, once strong challengers to Manchester City for the Premier League title, have struggled for consistency this season.
The Gunners have dropped points in nine of their 20 league games, leaving them six points behind leaders Liverpool, who also hold a game in hand.
Adding to their woes, Arsenal suffered a 2-0 defeat to Newcastle United in the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final, putting a potential trophy at risk.
Amid these struggles, the club is heavily linked with several transfer targets, and Petit insists they need “at least” three new players to compete at the highest level.
A striker tops the wish list as both Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus have struggled with inconsistency, often underperforming in critical matches.
One potential target, Newcastle’s Alexander Isak, has been priced at £150 million, posing a challenge for Arsenal’s transfer ambitions.
Petit also stressed the need for a left-winger and an attacking midfielder to add depth and creativity to Mikel Arteta’s squad. He specifically voiced frustration with Martinelli, who has struggled to find form, describing his performances as “inconsistent” and “annoying to watch.”
“Arsenal need more competition in their squad,” Petit told DisCasino. “They require a striker, a left-winger, and an attacking midfielder. The January market is tricky, but Arteta must find smart opportunities without overspending.”
Petit even suggested a bold move for Marcus Rashford, the Manchester United star who recently expressed a desire for a fresh challenge. While Rashford has been linked to clubs abroad, Petit believes Arsenal could benefit greatly from his addition.
“Rashford could thrive under Arteta,” Petit explained. “He’s not the player he was two years ago, but his quality hasn’t disappeared. Arsenal need to monitor his situation closely.”
Petit dismissed links to Nico Williams, stating the Athletic Bilbao winger would likely move to Barcelona if he left Spain. Meanwhile, he criticized Arsenal’s gamble on Raheem Sterling, which has yet to pay off.
As Arsenal enter a critical phase of their season, they face Manchester United in the FA Cup this weekend, followed by a north London derby against Tottenham. A clash with Aston Villa and the continuation of their Champions League campaign will test Arteta’s side as they aim to salvage their season and secure a top-four finish.