As the 2023/24 football season kicks off, Arsenal finds itself at a crossroads with the impending contract expiration of five of its players. While the Gunners have secured contract extensions for the likes of Bukayo Saka, Aaron Ramsdale, William Saliba, Reiss Nelson, and Gabriel Martinelli, there remains an air of uncertainty regarding their long-term futures at the club.
The North London club has been busy this year, ensuring the retention of several key players. Among them, Bukayo Saka, often hailed as one of English football’s brightest talents, committed his future to Arsenal. His versatility and dazzling displays have made him an indispensable asset. Aaron Ramsdale, the shot-stopper who made a significant impact after his arrival, has also signed a new deal, solidifying his role as Arsenal’s first-choice goalkeeper.
The Gunners’ defensive line has received a boost as well, with the extension of William Saliba’s contract. After successful loan spells, Saliba has returned to Arsenal with newfound confidence and experience. Meanwhile, Reiss Nelson and Gabriel Martinelli, two promising young forwards, have also pledged their commitment to the club. Their youthful exuberance and potential make them exciting prospects for Arsenal fans.
However, while these five players have inked fresh contracts, their future beyond the 2023/24 season remains uncertain. Arsenal’s management faces a complex challenge: balancing short-term success with long-term planning, all while managing financial constraints.
One player who will be under the spotlight is Bukayo Saka. As one of the brightest talents in English football, the pressure will be on Arsenal to keep him happy and motivated. The club’s fortunes could hinge on his continued development and success.
Aaron Ramsdale, who established himself as a reliable goalkeeper during the previous season, will need to maintain his high standards. The club will be closely monitoring his performance and progression as they evaluate his long-term role in the team.
William Saliba, a promising center-back, has shown immense potential but is still relatively untested in the Premier League. Arsenal’s decision to extend his contract reflects their belief in his abilities, but his performance in the upcoming season will be closely scrutinized.
Reiss Nelson and Gabriel Martinelli, although bursting with potential, face stiff competition for places in Arsenal’s attack. Their development and adaptation to the demands of top-flight football will play a pivotal role in determining their future at the club.
Arsenal’s long-term planning is further complicated by the ongoing negotiations with Martin Odegaard, the Norwegian midfielder who returned to the club last season. Odegaard’s potential contract extension could impact the squad’s dynamics and the opportunities available to younger talents like Nelson and Martinelli.
The financial aspect of these decisions cannot be overlooked, especially given the constraints imposed by Financial Fair Play regulations and the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Arsenal’s management will need to strike a delicate balance between securing the services of their promising talents and managing the club’s budget responsibly.
In conclusion, while Arsenal has successfully retained the services of five key players, their future beyond the 2023/24 season remains uncertain. The club’s management faces a challenging task in nurturing these talents while making prudent financial decisions. Arsenal fans will be watching closely, hoping that their young stars continue to shine and play a significant role in the club’s future success. As the season unfolds, the answers to these contract conundrums will become clearer, shaping Arsenal’s path in the years to come.
So, below are the five (5) players Arsenal will be losing at the end of the season if contract isn’t renewed:
1. Jorginho
2. Mohamed Elneny
3. Cedric Soares
4. Runar Alex Runarsson
5. Arthur Okonkwo
