Arsenal Icon Paul Merson claims injury to four Arsenal stars like Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli, Bukayo Saka, and Martin Odegaard could derail Arsenal’s season and chances of finishing in the top four in the Premier League.
Gabriel Jesus joined Arsenal from Manchester City for £45 million. The 25-year-old Brazilian international has settled in at Arsenal perfectly.
However, Paul Merson believes Arsenal’s season will depend on the fitness of Arsenal’s front three and their captain Martin Odegaard.
What did Paul Merson say?
Speaking on Sportskeeda, the formal Arsenal playmaker said: “The front four look lively for Arsenal.
“They’ve got everything between them and if they stay fit, Arsenal is going to have a good Premier League season.
“If one of them gets injured, however, they’re in trouble.”
The 54-year- old expects Arsenal to beat Leicester City convincingly this weekend as the Gunners play their first home game in the Premier League.
Merson added: “I’m worried for Leicester this season. There’s too much going on at the club.
“[James] Maddison and [Wesley] Fofana have their heads turned at the moment, and Kasper Schmeichel’s departure is a massive loss for the team.
“I thought Arsenal were outstanding in their first 20 minutes against Crystal Palace.
“I was very impressed by them at times last week, and I think they should be able to win this game easily.”
Meanwhile, Gabriel Magalhães has revealed the reason for staying at Arsenal despite interest from Juventus.
Juventus was keen on bringing Gabriel Magalhães to Turin this summer following the departure of Mattijs de ligt. The Brazilain snub the chance of signing for Juventus and competing in the Champions League.
The 25-year-old Brazilian international in an interview with Sky Sport said: “It’s always nice to get that recognition but I’m really focused on Arsenal.
“I am very happy here. I’ve got a good relationship with my teammates and I am fully committed to the project.
“I am convinced that, with the project we have, we can achieve a lot.”
Gabriel Magalhães has also opened up on his new defensive partner William Saliba and his influence in helping him settle in at Arsenal.
The Gunner signed the 21-year-old from Saint-Étienne for £27 million but failed to break through the Arsenal squad and had to seek to play time elsewhere on loan.
The 25-year-old added: “He’s a young player who came here at a very young age and then went out to get some experience.
“Now, despite his age, he is already playing for the French national team. That tells you how good he is. He’s here to help the team and he’s a very promising talent.”
Magalhães continued: “He is a good friend of mine already.
“We speak French together, so that helps. He has added a lot of quality to the team and I think he has a brilliant future ahead of him.”
