Mikel Arteta’s transformation of Arsenal into Premier League contenders has been nothing short of remarkable. With a reported £250 million investment for the 2025/26 season, the Gunners are poised to assemble a squad capable of not only challenging for the title but dominating English football. Three names linked with Arsenal—Nico Williams, Viktor Gyokeres, and Martin Zubimendi—could form the cornerstone of a super squad that blends youth, flair, and steel.
Nico Williams, the Athletic Bilbao winger, has long been on Arsenal’s radar. The 22-year-old’s blistering pace, direct dribbling, and ability to unlock defenses make him a perfect fit for Arteta’s high-pressing system. With 11 goals and 12 assists in La Liga last season, Williams offers the attacking dynamism Arsenal need on the flanks. His potential £50m transfer would bolster the wings, complementing Bukayo Saka and providing competition for Gabriel Martinelli. Williams’ versatility to play on either side ensures tactical flexibility, a hallmark of Arteta’s philosophy.
Up front, Viktor Gyokeres could be the prolific No. 9 Arsenal have lacked since Thierry Henry’s prime. The Sporting CP striker’s 43 goals in 50 appearances during the 2024/25 Primeira Liga campaign have made him one of Europe’s most sought-after forwards. At 26, Gyokeres combines physicality, clinical finishing, and intelligent movement, traits that align with Arteta’s vision of a modern striker. His reported £80m price tag reflects his value, but with Arsenal’s financial backing, Gyokeres could spearhead an attack capable of outscoring any Premier League rival. His arrival would allow Kai Havertz to drop into a more creative role, unlocking further attacking potential.
In midfield, Martin Zubimendi represents the final piece of Arteta’s puzzle. The Real Sociedad star, valued at £60m, is a defensive midfielder with exceptional composure and vision. Often compared to Xabi Alonso, Zubimendi’s ability to dictate tempo and break up play would complement Declan Rice perfectly, allowing Martin Odegaard to focus on creating chances. At 26, Zubimendi is entering his prime, and his experience in La Liga and European competitions makes him a low-risk, high-reward signing. His addition would provide the balance Arsenal need to compete with Manchester City’s midfield dominance.
Arteta’s current squad already boasts young stars like Saka, Odegaard, and William Saliba, but this £250m investment would elevate Arsenal to new heights. The potential starting XI—Raya; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Timber; Rice, Zubimendi, Odegaard; Saka, Gyokeres, Williams—combines defensive solidity with attacking flair. Substitutes like Martinelli, Havertz, and Thomas Partey would ensure depth, addressing Arsenal’s previous struggles with injuries.
However, challenges remain. Integrating high-profile signings requires time, and Arteta must maintain the squad’s cohesion. Competition from clubs like Manchester City and Liverpool will be fierce, and the pressure to deliver silverware will be immense. Yet, with Arteta’s tactical acumen and Arsenal’s financial muscle, the 2025/26 season could mark the dawn of a new era.
In conclusion, Nico Williams, Viktor Gyokeres, and Martin Zubimendi could transform Arsenal into genuine title contenders. Arteta’s vision, backed by £250m, is a bold statement of intent. The Emirates could soon be celebrating its first Premier League title since 2004.
