Does Arsenal spend enough? – Football Economy

I support a League 1 club which has its own financial problems. I follow the contest between the Premiership giants with great interest, but as a neutral I do have real doubts about whether Arsenal can win the title which is not that controversial a claim given their recent record. Chelsea could yet recover ground, Sir Alex could well win the title again for United and you can’t write off Manchester City.

So does Arsenal as a club spend enough: here is an interesting reflection by one of their fans. It’s also interesting to read some of the comments by Arsenal fans, some of which are less than complementary about Arsene Wenger. Among the more printable arguments advanced are that he (or possibly the board) is stingy, spends too much time and effort developing young players who then fail to deliver and makes tactical errors.

I see it like this. The move to the Emirates was expensive. It was the right move for the club in the long run. But at some point the board needs to consider whether the time has come to spend more on the team.

Also at some point in the future there will be a change of manager. When Willie Whitelaw was deputy prime minister an interviewer pointed out to him that Mrs Thatcher was not immortal. His response was, ‘We don’t know that yet’ which was both amusing and tactful. Arsene Wenger is synynomous with Arsenal in the 21st century. There also needs to be some succession planning and probably it is taking place (and at United as well).

When Fergie and Wenger depart, it will be a big change at the top of English football. Sir Alex’s place in United’s history will be assured. Although I think he is a talented manager, there may be more debate about Wenger’s legacy.