In a surprising twist to the January transfer window, Arsenal legend Emmanuel Petit has publicly urged manager Mikel Arteta to make a shock move for a Manchester United star, claiming it could be the key to securing the Premier League title. Speaking to talkSPORT, Petit expressed his admiration for the player, highlighting qualities that align perfectly with Arteta's tactical vision.
Petit's Passionate Plea for Mbeumo
Emmanuel Petit, a World Cup winner with France, did not hesitate when asked which player Arsenal should target to end their trophy drought. He immediately pointed to Manchester United's recent signing, praising his on-field intelligence and work rate. Petit emphasised that this player's movement and link-up play could bring a new dimension to Arsenal's attack, something he believes is currently lacking.
Why Mbeumo Fits Arteta's System
According to Petit, the player in question offers a blend of flair, assists, and mental strength that makes him an ideal fit for how Arteta wants Arsenal to play. While not overly physical, he compensates with pace and consistent goal-scoring in the Premier League, attributes that Petit argues would complement Arsenal's existing squad better than some of their summer signings.
This recommendation comes after Arsenal's record-breaking summer transfer window, where they secured a centre-forward to address previous shortcomings. However, Petit suggests that opting for a proven Premier League quantity like this Manchester United star could have been a more strategic move, potentially avoiding adaptation issues seen with other signings.
A Potential Title-Deciding Move
The allure of this transfer lies in its potential to mirror past successes, such as Manchester United's signing of Robin van Persie to win the league. Petit believes that securing this player could allow Arsenal to repay that favour, turning the tables in the title race. With the January window open, Arteta faces a critical decision that could define Arsenal's season and their quest for silverware.