A legendary Arsenal player is urging Edu to look for a top-tier midfielder.
Arsenal legend Lee Dixon has urged his former club to pursue a ‘superb’ midfielder, expressing confidence that the player would be inclined to join the Gunners.
The player in question is Angel Gomes, a standout talent from Lille and the England national team, who has experienced a remarkable ascent over the past year, excelling in Spain and earning a regular spot with the Three Lions.
At just 24 years old, Gomes spent nearly a decade in Manchester United’s academy but made only 10 first-team appearances before opting for a move in 2020 to secure more consistent playing time.
Initially joining Lille on loan, he has since made over 100 appearances for the club and played a pivotal role in leading the England Under-21 team to victory in the 2023 Euros.
With his impressive trajectory, Gomes is now seen as a likely candidate for England’s squad for the 2026 World Cup, contingent on qualification under the new coach, Thomas Tuchel.
Dixon has called on Arsenal’s sporting director Edu to consider bringing Gomes to north London, stating, “I believe Angel Gomes would integrate seamlessly into Arsenal.
His abilities are evident; he excels as a link-up player and has demonstrated compatibility with Declan Rice.”
He added, “Gomes possesses significant potential, and while many clubs will be interested, I can envision him at Arsenal next season.”
Should Gomes make the move to Arsenal, he would be joining a team that has consistently competed for the Premier League title under Mikel Arteta.
It has been twenty years since Arsenal last secured a top-flight trophy, but the addition of Gomes to their midfield could enhance the capabilities of players like Declan Rice, Mikel Merino, and Thomas Partey, assuming Partey remains with the team.
The England international also possesses the versatility to operate as a No. 10, providing valuable support for captain Martin Odegaard, especially in light of the absence of the injured playmaker in recent matches.
Regarding Arsenal’s aspirations for the title this season, Dixon expresses concern that Arteta’s tenure may be deemed a ‘failure’ if the club continues to fall short.
“If Mikel Arteta departs Arsenal without clinching the Premier League or Champions League, it would be fair to label it a failure, as his primary objective is to secure the most prestigious trophies,” Dixon remarked.
“He would readily acknowledge this, and while we cannot predict the duration of his tenure, failing to win either title would be a significant letdown.
“Winning these competitions is undoubtedly challenging, but Arsenal’s defense could be pivotal in their quest for a first Champions League title.
“Historically, it has been difficult for Arsenal, as evidenced by their past final appearance, and they have not come close since.
Competing against top teams requires a bit of luck, but a solid foundation is essential, and their current defense provides that.
“They have established a strong defensive unit, and navigating the winter months with minimal injuries will be crucial, a challenge all European clubs face.”
Arsenal will return to Premier League action on Saturday, hosting Bournemouth at The Emirates.
Profile of Angel Gomes
Four years after departing his childhood club, Angel Gomes is now realizing the potential he exhibited during his time in Manchester United’s academy, emerging as one of the most coveted players among leading Premier League teams.
The inclusion of Gomes in interim manager Lee Carsley’s first squad list, following his promotion from managing the under-21s to succeed Gareth Southgate, came as a bit of a surprise.
However, for those who have tracked Gomes’ development through the Manchester United youth system, the real surprise is that it has taken the 24-year-old this long to achieve international recognition.