Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that the club will take an active approach in the January transfer window, driven primarily by a wave of defensive absences. With Timber, Kalafiori, White, and Mosquera sidelined simultaneously, the Gunners face a particularly vulnerable backline, despite the recent return of key attacking figures such as Gabriel Jesus and the imminent return of Kai Havertz.
The defensive crisis has forced Arteta into tactical adjustments. In the Premier League clash against Brighton on 27 December, midfielder Declan Rice was deployed as right-back to cover for missing defenders, highlighting the challenges faced by the squad. Such measures, while effective in the short term, underscore the need for additional reinforcements to maintain stability at the back.
Despite the defensive concerns, Arsenal’s attacking output has remained productive. The team recorded wins against Brighton (2–1) and Brentford (2–0), demonstrating that the offensive side of the squad is recovering. However, the main issue lies in clean sheets, with the defensive rotation affecting the team’s ability to maintain shutouts consistently.
Arteta emphasised the importance of proactive recruitment in January, stating that the club must “be really aware of the situation and act accordingly.” The manager indicated that any incoming players would be expected to strengthen the squad immediately, particularly in defence, without disrupting harmony or squad balance.
The January strategy appears to prioritise practicality over speculation, focusing on positions under the greatest pressure. While the window offers limited opportunities, Arsenal aim to reinforce areas that will enable them to compete effectively across domestic and European competitions.
