Paul Merson predicts why Arsenal could sack Mikel Arteta before Christmas next season

Gidibam Web4 days ago

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Image credit: Getty Images

Paul Merson has claimed that Arsenal could part ways with Mikel Arteta by the end of the year if the Gunners are not firmly in the Premier League title race by Christmas. Despite another strong campaign that saw Arsenal finish second and reach the Champions League semi-finals, their trophy drought continues—raising questions over Arteta’s long-term future.

The Spaniard, who took charge in 2019, has only delivered the 2020 FA Cup despite significant progress. While Arsenal’s consistency has improved, Merson insists that “you’ve got to win something” and believes the pressure will mount if Arteta fails to keep pace with the league’s frontrunners early next season.

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“I think Arteta’s got till Christmas,” the former Arsenal star said on Sky Sports. “They will have to be in the top two at Christmas to keep going. If you get to four [trophyless seasons], then no, you can’t [keep going].”

Arsenal - Mikel Arteta — **Mikel Arteta (Image credit: Getty Images**

Merson argued that Arsenal’s resources and appeal mean they should be competing for major honours, warning that the club must capitalise on their current momentum before the cycle shifts. “When it’s your time, you’ve got to make it count,” he said, citing Liverpool’s 30-year title drought and Manchester United’s decline as cautionary tales.

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While praising Arteta for restoring belief at the Emirates, Merson stressed that the board must back him with a marquee striker signing this summer. “They need a centre-forward,” he insisted, comparing the situation to Arsène Wenger’s reluctance to address defensive gaps in his later years.

Injuries to key players like Bukayo Saka and Kai Havertz have exposed squad limitations, and Merson warned that failing to strengthen could leave Arteta vulnerable—even after transforming Arsenal from “also-rans” into contenders.

With expectations higher than ever, Arteta’s project faces a defining season—and patience may wear thin if silverware remains elusive.