Topics discussed in this podcast include player transfers, Kieran Tierney's lack of interest from clubs, Mike Dean's admission, players training alone, Rob Holding's interview, and more. The hosts also talk about referee controversies, player exclusion during the transfer window, Trostard's playing time, and share their experiences with Pro Evolution Soccer and Chewlio Baptista.
Kieran Tierney's loan move to Real Sociedad provides him with a chance to showcase his skills and potentially increase his market value.
Folarin Balogun's move to Monaco showcases Arsenal's ability to capitalize on their academy talents and leaves the potential for a future return to the Premier League.
Arsenal's transfer strategy focuses on outgoing transfers to trim the squad, with a balance between giving opportunities to younger players and maintaining a competitive team.
Deep dives
Tieni's Loan Move to Sosiodat
Kieran Tierney is close to finalizing a loan move to Sosiodat in northern Spain. This is seen as a great move for Tierney, as Sosiodat offers Champions League football, a beautiful location, and a chance for him to showcase his skills. While some may question the lack of Premier League interest in Tierney, it is believed that his high wages and injury history may have deterred potential suitors. However, the long-term contract he signed with Arsenal provides security, and a successful loan spell in Spain could increase his market value.
Balagué's Move to Monaco
Folorin Balagué's move to Monaco is seen as a successful piece of business by Arsenal. Despite his young age, Balagué has shown immense potential and impressed during his loan spell in France. The reported fee of around €45 million demonstrates Arsenal's ability to capitalize on their academy talents. While some may question the lack of playing time for Balagué in the first team, it is expected that he will gain valuable experience and continue his development at Monaco. The potential for a future return to the Premier League remains open, as Arsenal may have included clauses to protect their interests.
Potential Signings and Squad Rotation
As the transfer window nears its end, there have been discussions about potential signings for Arsenal. While there have been links to players like Ivan Toney, it is uncertain if the club will make any more additions. The focus seems to be more on outgoing transfers to trim the squad. In terms of squad rotation, it is expected that manager Mikel Arteta will utilize the depth of his squad in cup competitions and when injuries require changes. Players like Alexis Blurton-Cuffey and Alex Cruyff will likely be given opportunities at academy level, while first-team fringe players may feature in certain games. Overall, Arsenal's transfer strategy and squad management aim to strike a balance between giving players opportunities and maintaining a competitive team.
Unwanted players training separately
Some players have been training separately from the group due to potential transfers. This allows them to protect themselves from injuries and creates a psychological separation between players who will stay and those who might leave.
Rob Holding's Interview and Playing Role
Rob Holding's interview showcased his positive influence within the squad and his willingness to play a supportive role. He highlighted the importance of players enjoying special moments and shared a story about encouraging Jakub Jokic to take a picture with the Community Shield. Holding's passion for playing time is evident, and it is likely that he will seek a move elsewhere to secure regular starts.
In this extra Arsecast Extra, we discuss some outward movement in the transfer market as Kieran Tierney heads for Real Sociedad, and Flo Balogun goes to Monaco. We chat about the moves/deals, and ponder why there wasn't more interest in KT this summer. We also touch on Mike Dean's rather startling admission, before answering listener questions about players training alone, Rob Holding and his recent interview, Jakub Kiwior's role in the squad, who we'd like to interview most from the current squad, and lots more.
