Arsenal must win the title this year says Thierry Henry | OneFootball

Thierry Henry has delivered a blunt assessment of Arsenal’s prospects this season, insisting that Mikel Arteta’s side must deliver silverware to validate their progress. The former striker, who won two Premier League titles with the Gunners, warned that there can be “no more excuses” after years of near misses.

Speaking after Arsenal’s 2-0 Champions League victory over Athletic Club, and reported by Sky Sports, Henry highlighted the club’s unprecedented squad depth. “Right now, I will say that nobody has a team as deep as Arsenal,” he observed. “Some teams can match the starting XI, but Arsenal almost have two teams.” With Martin Ødegaard, Bukayo Saka, and Kai Havertz all missing from the line-up, Arsenal still secured a comfortable win, underscoring the strength at Arteta’s disposal.

Arsenal ‘cannot just play not to lose’

Yet Henry stressed that strength in numbers must be translated into tangible success. “This year, you cannot hide,” he said. “You have to bring something. Finishing second doesn’t give you a trophy. At some point you’ve got to validate what you’re doing.” While Henry acknowledged that injuries remain a reality, he argued Arsenal now have the resources to cope, unlike in previous seasons.

Henry believes the title race will be contested between Arsenal and Liverpool, though he cautioned against discounting Manchester City. But he was unequivocal in his expectations: “If I was in that dressing room, I’m aiming for the title. As a player, I’m going for it first.” His critique centred on Arsenal’s approach in big games. “If you want to beat Liverpool or City, you cannot just play not to lose. You need to go and get it,” adding that when he himself played for Arsenal, “you had to go after the likes of Manchester United…You could’t play for a draw.”

Arsenal will next play Manchester City on Sunday, as they return to Premier League action.

GFN | Finn Entwistle