Shearer identifies missed opportunity for Arsenal in transfer window
Alan Shearer has labelled Julian Alvarez as the key miss for Arsenal during the transfer window that “would have got them closer to winning the Champions League”, reports BritPanorama.
The Gunners fell short in last season’s final against Paris Saint-Germain, losing on penalties after a 1-1 draw, with Gabriel notably missing the decisive kick.
Mikel Arteta’s squad secured several marquee signings but did not bring in a new striker—an omission Shearer argues could impact their European ambitions. Speaking to Betfair, he asserted that Alvarez’s addition would have significantly buoyed their Champions League prospects this season.
While acknowledging Arsenal’s impressive recruitment, Shearer noted, “I don’t think Arsenal’s lack of business in the transfer window to secure a left winger will affect them in the Premier League. They’ve recruited really well.” He elaborated that although he views Viktor Gyokeres as a solid player, he does not possess the “top class” credentials that Alvarez offers, which he believes would have propelled Arsenal in the Champions League race.
Alvarez, who remained at Atletico Madrid during the window despite interest from multiple clubs, was mentioned as a point of concern for Arsenal’s strategy. Shearer remarked, “They would have won the league and had a great chance in the Champions League if they had signed Alvarez.”
Despite not adding a striker, Arsenal successfully acquired Bruno Guimaraes from Newcastle United for £75 million, alongside other reinforcements such as Ezri Konsa and Illan Meslier. Konsa made his debut in Arsenal’s recent 2-1 comeback victory over Chelsea, a match that Arteta described as “beautiful.”
Looking ahead, Arsenal will face Napoli away, following the Italian side’s recent defeat to Inter Milan. Arteta sees promise in his team’s performance and is optimistic about their potential growth this season.
In the world of football, missed opportunities linger, serving as reminders of how finely balanced the quest for glory can be. Arsenal’s journey this season will face numerous tests, but every decision echoes in the grand theatre of European competition.
