Jamie Carragher believes Arsenal’s Premier League title dreams hinge on making two key signings to solve what he calls Mikel Arteta’s “biggest problem.”
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Despite a narrow 1-0 victory over Ipswich Town that pushed Arsenal to second place, they remain six points behind league leaders Liverpool, who still have a game in hand.
Manchester City struggling and Chelsea still in transition under Enzo Maresca, many view the title race as a battle between Liverpool and Arsenal, with Liverpool as clear frontrunners.
Carragher, however, is skeptical of Arsenal’s chances. While he acknowledges their improved readiness for a title fight, he insists that their long wait for Premier League glory will continue unless urgent changes are made.
“Arsenal’s biggest issue is injuries,” Carragher told The Telegraph. “For the last two seasons, they avoided major disruptions, but this year, their squad is stretched thin.
Arteta can help the team improve during the second half of the season, and their experience in title chases will be valuable. If they’re still close by March, they’ll believe they can do it.
“However, with both my head and heart, I believe Liverpool will edge them out. Arne Slot’s attacking depth is unmatched in the league. My only concern for Liverpool is potential injuries to their key players. If they can stay fit, they’ll be hard to beat.”
Arsenal has been plagued by injuries this season. By mid-December, they had suffered 16 player injuries, a tally only surpassed by Brighton and Ipswich.
Among the sidelined players were captain Martin Odegaard and defender Ben White. The situation has worsened since, with star winger Bukayo Saka ruled out for two months after undergoing hamstring surgery.
Carragher argues that Arsenal’s lack of attacking depth could derail their title push and urges Arteta to act in the transfer market.
“Whether or not they win the title this season, Arsenal needs to reinforce in 2025,” Carragher added. “Compared to Liverpool and Chelsea, they lack attacking options.
Slot has five fit forwards, each offering something different, while Arteta relies heavily on the same players—none more so than Saka. Losing a player of his quality has exposed how much responsibility he’s been carrying.
“Arteta must sign at least two high-quality attackers, not just backups but starters who bring unpredictability to the lineup.”
Arsenal is reportedly unlikely to make major moves in the January transfer window, though Wolves forward Matheus Cunha—who has 10 goals and four assists this season—has been linked with a potential move. However, without reinforcements, Arsenal’s title challenge may falter once again.
