Like in close-seasons past, Gunners fans have been frustrated with their lack of inactivity in the transfer market. Arsene Wenger has saw Gonzalo Higuain go to Napoli, a deal for Manchester Uniteds Wayne Rooney seems unlikely, and the stubborn Gunners chief seems to have been priced out of a move for Liverpools Luis Suarez, though a deal might still be completed before the transfer window closes.
Whatever wheelings and dealings Arsenal do from now until August 31st, one man who is sure to play an integral and important role in the times fortunes is french striker, Olivier Giroud.
Giroud, brought in from Monpellier in the summer of 2012, he largely failed to exceed expectations in his first season in the Emirates, despite scoring 18 goals in all competitions.
However in pre-season the man has been a revelation, scoring 7 goals in 5 games, including a overhead kick vs Napoli in the Emirates cup. If he can keep up his good run of form, Giroud could be in amongst the race for the golden boot come May, and his goals could prove key for Arsenal domestically and in Europe.
And I expect him to improve his goal tally this season round, he has an excellent worth ethic, and he will benefit greatly this season from the creativity of Cazorla and others.
So yes Arsenal can look forward to the new season with optimism, but Arsene Wenger must step up in his search to bring in new players, and not play the: ''Girouds like a new signing with his form in pre-season'' card. New faces are required at the Emirates, if Arsenal are to end the season with a trophy, something which has eluded them since 2005.
Source: DSG
Source: DSG