With eight Premier League games remaining, Arsenal are closing in on their first English top-flight title since the Invincibles season of 2003/04. Despite finishing as runners-up in each of the past three campaigns, the club has steadily built a squad capable of ending that 22-year wait.

The board has fully backed Mikel Arteta in his squad overhaul, giving him the resources to compete at the top. But whether Arsenal lift the trophy this season or not, the club will continue to evolve, which may mean moving on players who have contributed in the past but are currently underperforming. Top teams improve continuously rather than waiting for form to drop before making changes.

Reports suggest that captain Martin Ødegaard and forward Gabriel Martinelli could be on the summer transfer list to help fund further squad improvements. Ødegaard’s 2025/26 campaign has been hampered by injuries—two knee issues, a shoulder problem, and other minor setbacks—limiting him to just one goal and five assists in 20 league appearances. This is a sharp decline from his 15 goals and seven assists in 2022/23, with a league shot conversion of only 5% and just 20 attempts on goal this season. While his pass completion remains high at 85.1%, his involvement has dropped significantly compared to previous seasons, and his market value could still fetch a solid transfer fee at 27.

Martinelli, meanwhile, has produced 44 goals and 21 assists in the same timeframe, second only to Bukayo Saka. His pace remains a key attacking outlet, but other aspects of his game have declined. His final-third pass completion has dropped from 78.9% three seasons ago to 59.6% now, and his ball recoveries have fallen from 103 in 2022/23 to just 41 this season. Losing 863 one-on-one duels over recent campaigns highlights areas for improvement, even though he will only be 25 at the start of 2026/27.

Ultimately, Arteta faces tough decisions as he balances player development, financial strategy, and the drive for silverware. Moving on players like Ødegaard or Martinelli may be part of ensuring Arsenal remain competitive at the top.