Premier League Preview: Arsenal

Arsenal fans enter the season with their usual sense of optimism mixed with transfer-window disappointment. After cheif-executive Ivan Gazidis promised Arsene Wenger £70 million to spend at the start of the summer, fans will be disappointed to see only free-transfer Yaya Sanogo arrive at the Emirates.

However, they will feel more optimistic than usual that players will arrive before the 2 September deadline after Arsenal have looked to smash their previous transfer record, having a bid declined of £40,000,001 for Liverpool's want-away striker Luis Suarez. With Suarez himself pushing for a transfer it now seems like only a matter of time before the controversial Uruguayan arrives at the Emirates.

Having lost none of their big name players during the window and shifting a bit of deadweight in the form of Andre Santos and Gervinho they will be looking to press on from retaining their fourth place position. Ideally Wenger will be looking to challenge for the title but with the return of Mourinho at Chelsea and big signings at Manchester City it seems difficult to see how realistic that aim is. Perhaps Wenger should instead look to break the eight year trophy duct by attempting to win either the FA Cup or League Cup, pleasing the fans by finally winning a trophy.

Key Player: Santi Carzola - Whilst many will argue that Jack Wilshere is Arsenal's key man, his injury-prone nature means that Arsenal need someone who can perform consistantly all season. Last year Carzola proved he could be that player with 12 goals and 14 assists after playing in every premier league game. If he can continue that form Arsenal can certainly make a push for the top 3.

One to Watch: Alex Oxlaide-Chamberlain - After breaking through to the Arsenal team two seasons ago, 'the Ox', had a quiet season last year and failed to regularly establish himself in the Arsenal team. However, with another years experience under his belt 'the Ox' will be looking to regain a regular spot in the Arsenal team.

Best Summer Signing: Yaya Sanogo - An easy decision as he is the only signing thus far. A traditional Wenger signing as the young striker will certainly be one to watch over the coming years.

Last Season: 4th

Pre-Season Prediction: 4th - Retaining their coveted 4th place trophy again. Even if Suarez signs it does not cover the fact that their squad is not as strong as teams around them.