So, the 2024-25 Premier League season is now over and it was perhaps not one to remember too fondly for Arsenal.
Before a ball was kicked, the Gunners were tipped to end their long wait for a title, but fell short as Liverpool claimed the biggest prize in English football.
Of course, there were some memorable moments from an Arsenal perspective, with big results achieved against ‘Top 6’ rivals.
But which one was the best? Well, that was just one of the questions we asked NetBet Sport brand ambassador Ray Parlour during his personal review of Arsenal’s 2024-25 campaign.
Check out all of his answers below and remember, NetBet will soon be offering outright football odds for the 2025-26 Premier League season, so stay tuned!
What went wrong for Arsenal in 2024-25 – and should there be any concern over Mikel Arteta?
Ray: “No concern over Arteta at all. Arsenal improved in the Champions League and in the Premier League, they were hit by a striker crisis at the worst possible time. And early on in the season, they were on the end of some dubious refereeing decisions. But it is a learning curve and Arsenal will address the striker issue this summer to ensure they have quality reinforcements, as well as help the manager in his quest for trophies.”
Which Arsenal players impressed you the most throughout the season – and who would you pick as the club’s Player of the Season?
Ray: “Bukayo Saka once again was excellent when fit and he is so key to Arsenal going forward. Declan Rice was influential in midfield and Myles Lewis-Skelly really impressed in his first season. Mikel Merino played very well too, especially having to deputise in different positions such as a makeshift No9. You can already see how important of a player the Spaniard is for Arsenal. But Player of the Season? I would have to go with Saka.”
Which Arsenal players disappointed you the most?
Ray: “I would not really say anyone disappointed me per se. It was just a frustrating season, with so many key players out at various different times. Martin Odegaard was out for a long period near the start, while Gabriel Jesus was back scoring goals and then got injured in January. Saka and Kai Havertz were obviously huge misses during their times out with serious hamstring injuries, but don’t forget that Gabriel Martinelli was also out at a crucial period of the season! Arteta’s forward department really was decimated and you have to feel a bit sorry for him.”
What was your favourite Premier League game of the season featuring Arsenal?
Ray: “My favourite Premier League game has to be the 5-1 home victory over Manchester City. It really was a statement win. And what a day it was for goalscorers Lewis-Skelly and Ethan Nwaneri, two players who prove that Arsenal have a very bright future ahead.”
What areas do the club need to address in the summer window?
Ray: “Arsenal will surely look to bolster the central midfield, striker and wide forward positions in the summer window. Martin Zubimendi looks like a player Arsenal will sign from Real Sociedad, which is a very exciting prospect. And if they can get a top-quality striker, such as Alexander Isak or Viktor Gyokeres, to go with a winger who scores lots of goals, next season could be a very exciting one for my former team!”
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