9 of Pepe's 22 goals came from the spot last year. He could very well be great. But people love the unknown. He seems about as productive as Falcao. Would you be as excited if you had him instead? Just curious.
These guys really haven't proven themselves on the big stage yet and David Luiz isn't the answer at CB.
Also I think the loss of Ramsey, who was by far your best midfielder last season, cannot be understated.
Arsenal will absolutely be better than last year but I don't see them getting close to the title
... that would have been realistic under any circumstances short of others falling on their collective faces. I think the goal was to improve enough to compete for a Champions League spot. That is possible, but still a tough road. Ramsey's loss will hurt. I have never been a big fan of Luiz, but it is my impression that he has proved himself pretty useful in recent years. I could be wrong about that.
Let's make it happen.
I think PL can still sell to leagues whose window is open. There are indications from Ligue 1 teams.
If not, I can’t see him and Luiz together. Most likely Sokratis, Luiz, Holding, Chambers (if not sold) and Monreal to play before Mustafi at this point.
Tierney and Luiz on the last day, Ceballos Salina and Pepe? Good lord, they have done work.
Top 4 for sure. The title is realistic.
I think we should end up in 3rd if everyone stays healthy, and have a legitimate shot at Europa as well. But I don't think we have the depth to hold up over the season to challenge City. I think Liverpool may also struggle to keep up with City over the course of the season as well, given they aren't exactly the deepest squad around. But we shall see. It was certainly a hell of a transfer window.
Title - Pool and Citeh Are still the teams to beat. This is probably another year where garnering a CL spot is probably as close to a trophy as we may get.
Saliba isn’t coming until next year and I still think they need another center back. I hope Mustafi stays on the line except for FA/Carbao Cup ties - my goodness how shambolic will Luiz/Mustafi pairing be (cue Yakety Sax).
It’s going to take some time for this new back line to gel with the goalkeeper and with each other. I think this team is set up to score a lot of goals but is also going to give up a lot of goals as well. I for ee a lot of 4-3 score lines.
As long as there’s an epic beat down of Spurs, competitive matches with Citeh/Pool/ManU, and few wasted points against mid-to-lower table teams, I’ll be happy.