Arsenal pay the price for prudence

With their 8-2 defeat at Manchester United, Arsenal have paid the price for financial prudence, particularly their wage structure.   Patrick Barclay, chief football commentator of The Times noted this morning, ‘Financial prudence in a mad world has cost Arsenal dear’.


From a purely financial point of view it was more important to defeat Udinese last week and qualify for the Champions League.   A failure to do so would have cost £25m-£26m and denied the club the chance of signing any high quality players before the transfer window closes.

With their 8-2 defeat at Manchester United, Arsenal have paid the price for financial prudence, particularly their wage structure.   Patrick Barclay, chief football commentator of The Times noted this morning, ‘Financial prudence in a mad world has cost Arsenal dear’.


From a purely financial point of view it was more important to defeat Udinese last week and qualify for the Champions League.   A failure to do so would have cost £25m-£26m and denied the club the chance of signing any high quality players before the transfer window closes.


Even with money available that is not going to be easy.   Prices have been rising anyway and clubs are going to sense that Arsenal are desperate and hence willing to pay top dollar.   For example, £23m is being quoted for Yann M’Villa the Rennes and France holding midfield player.   Arsenal might also have to look at their wages structure, but that cannot be changed easily in the short run, although there may be flexibility over signing on fees and other extras.


Arsene Wenger’s strategy has been to develop young players which he has always argued would bring long-term results.   Perhaps, but football has short-term horizons and the pressure is now on Wenger, although I would expect the Arsenal board to stand by him.